Best Ways to Treat Toenail Fungus

Although prevalent and infectious, toenail fungus is difficult to treat. Since toenail fungal infections are so widespread, finding a treatment option that is effective requires a short visit to the podiatrist.

Toenail fungus treatment isn't always necessary; occasionally, self-care and over-the-counter medicines can eliminate the infection. However, if your condition doesn't get better, consult your doctor. The kind of fungus causing your problem and its severity will determine how you should be treated. Observing outcomes can take several months. Additionally, recurring infections are common even if your nail health becomes better.

• Medication: Oral antifungal medications are widely taken. With the aid of these medications, a new, clean nail gradually replaces the infected one. Patients with congestive heart failure, liver illness, or those taking specific medications may be advised not to take oral antifungal medicines.
• VapoRub: Toenail fungus is notoriously difficult to treat. Vicks VapoRub is a widely used treatment for nail fungus. It probably won't be much help if your infection is severe. However, it won't cause any harm either.
• Nail cream: Your doctor could advise using an antifungal cream on the affected nails. The cream works better on thin nails. Regular use facilitates the medication's penetration of the fungus beneath the hard nail surface.
• Melaleuca: Melaleuca, or tea tree oil, has antifungal and antibacterial properties. According to several clinical research, tea tree oil may be beneficial in treating toenail fungus. Twice daily, apply tea tree oil with a swab to the damaged nail to get rid of the fungus.
• Diet: The relationship between nutrition and health is evident. The better your diet, the greater ability your immune system has to fight against ailments like toenail fungus. Eat yogurt and other bacteria-fighting foods. Make sure to include enough protein in your diet to stimulate nail renewal and enough iron to avoid brittle nails. High consumption of vitamin C and D are also essential.
• Nail polish: Antibacterial nail polish may be recommended by your doctor. You apply it once daily to the nail and the skin around the damaged nails to treat the infection.
• Surgery: Your doctor could advise removing the toenail so the root can be treated with an antifungal medication. The most efficient, but least used method, is to have the nail removed from the root.

The best treatment to tackle your infection or any other foot condition can be recommended by a podiatrist after they examine your feet and diagnose the real issue. Your podiatrist may even recommend the FDA approved PinPointe Foot Laser Treatment.

If you have any foot concerns, know that help is available. Contact the office of Dr. John C. Marzano at Westchester Podiatric Medicine in Scarsdale, NY, to schedule an appointment. For more information, you can visit our office located at 700 White Plains Rd, Suite 308, Scarsdale, NY 10583 (enter via 720 & park in front of Athleta), or call us at (914) 423-0600.