Nail Infection Caused by Fungus
Not all yellowed, thick and brittle nails are caused by nail fungus, but when they are, the fungus is thriving under the nail bed. This is a difficult area to treat and often requires a daily treatment over a lengthy period of time to restore the nail to a healthy condition.
-
Effects
-
Although a nail infection caused by fungus most often affects toes, fungus infections can occur in both fingernails and toenails. Most commonly affected are the toenails, typically because they are kept dark, moist and warm throughout the day. This is the perfect environment for the fungus to grow, causing thick, yellow, brittle nails.
Time Frame
-
Most nail fungus treatments on the market contain anti-fungals that kill any fungi on the surface of the nail and surrounding skin, but it will need to get under the nail in order to kill the fungus infection completely. In most cases, the nail must be kept as short as possible, cleaned and treated daily, and a new, healthy nail must grow--uninfected. This process can take several months to a year, depending on the severity of the infection. Prescription medications can be much quicker in killing the fungal infection than over-the-counter medications, but time frames depend on the evaluation of a qualified physician.
-
Prevention/Solution
-
There are two parts to clearing up nail fungus: prevention and a solution, or treatment. Preventative care involves keeping the nails clean and dry, and, if nail fungus is present, preventing it from spreading or continuing to flourish. Daily topical treatments can stop the growth of fungi and prevent infection of the new nail as it grows. This will also stop the fungus from spreading to healthy nails.
Types
-
Over-the-counter medications for treating nail fungus are available in the form of creams, topical solutions and paint-on liquids. There are anti-fungal and anti-bacterial medications available online, such as ZetaClear, Fugisil, Saprox and Deggercide, which all work to inhibit the growth of fungus and bacteria. Prescription anti-fungal medications are available through a doctor. They generally are taken orally and can be accompanied by a topical treatment as well. There are higher risks involved with taking oral anti-fungal medications.
Warning
-
Orally prescribed anti-fungal medications to cure nail fungus can have serious health risks and may even cause damage to the elimination organs, the skin and the liver. There is no guarantee that the nail fungus will be cured with the use of prescription medications, and blood test are usually done to to determine the safety of using oral anti-fungal medications.
-
