Nail fungus is identified as a fungal infection that affects one or more nails, starting out as a white or yellowish spot underneath the fingernail or toenail. As the infection spreads, the nail fungus goes deeper into the nail and may cause further discoloration, thickening, or the development of crumbling edges, which poses a potentially painful condition for the patient. Generally, nails that are affected nail fungus are distorted in shape, thickened, dull, brittle, has ragged and uneven edges, and have a darker color because of the buildup of debris under the nail. Watch a demonstration on toe nail fungus treatment:
What are the causes of nail fungus?
Typically, nail fungus is caused by a group of fungi referred to as dermatophytes. Additionally, molds and yeasts can also cause nail fungal infections. It is more common for toenails to be affected with nail fungus compared to fingernails. This is because toenails are often confined in the warm, moist, and dark environment inside the shoes, the ideal type of environment for fungi to thrive. It is harder for the body’s immune system to detect the presence and initiate the elimination of a fungal infection in the toes because of the diminished blood circulation there as well.
How can nail fungus be treated?
It is often difficult to treat nail fungus and infections are chronic and repetitive. There are over-the-counter antifungal creams appointments that are available for use, but these are not very effective and the patient may need supplemental medication as prescribed by the doctor.
Oral antifungal medications such as terbinafine and itraconazole are prescribed to manage the symptoms of nail fungus. They are recommended for patients who have diabetes, or a history of cellulitis. They are also useful for patients who are starting to experience discomfort at the site of infection. Oral medications help stimulate the growth of new nail to replace the infected nail. Results will typically be seen within the next few months of medication, particularly when new nail has to fully grown.
Antifungal lacquer is effective against mile to moderate nail fungal infections and contains the active ingredient ciclopirox. This formulation is painted on the infected nail and surrounding skin, once a day, for seven days, without removing the layers. At the end of the seventh day, the layers are cleaned off with alcohol and new ones will be applied.
Topical medications are available for use and usually come in cream and lotion formulations that contain urea. These do not cure nail fungus and are only used in conjunction with oral medications.
For severe or extremely painful nail fungus, surgical removal of the nail may be recommended. This process allows the regrowth new nails within a year of the surgery. There have been instances when antifungal lacquer has been used on the nail bed during the healing period to treat the fungal infection.
We offer several treatments for nail fungus, including laser treatments, contact us today to learn more! See how effective laser nail fungus treatment can be – view this video now!
