What Are the Treatments for Fungal Nail Infections?
Fungal nail infections are more common for people over 60 and diabetics, but people of any age can get them. Most people get fungal nail infections in their toenails rather than their fingernails. Either condition is called distal subungual onchcomycosis, which is caused by dermatophytes. There are a number of treatments for this condition.
-
Considerations
-
Though any of three types of dermatophytes (microsporum, epidermophyton and trichophyton) can cause fungal nail infections, an overgrowth of internal candida albicans can spur the proliferation of these fungi. Thus, you may also need to treat the internal as well as the external fungus. This is especially true if you are experiencing recurring fungal nail infections.
Types of Medical Treatments
-
There are several anti-fungal creams that you can use to treat fungal infections. One anti-fungal medication is Lamisil (terbinifine). Diflucan (fluconazole), Sporanox (itraconazole) and Nizoral (ketaconazole) are three other highly effective antifungal medications. They all come in sprays or creams. Some other topical antifungal medicines are Tineacide, Myocide, Nonyx and Clearstat. You will need to apply all antifungal medications on both the toes and the nails. Oral medications are also available, but these can often cause recurring incidences of nail fungus.
-
Other Types of Treatments
-
Vinegar and Listerine foot baths can be used effectively to treat nail fungus infections. Apple cider, fruit or coconut are some effective vinegars you can use. Your mixture should consist of 50% of each ingredient. Be sure to use enough fluid to cover the affected areas. Also, make sure you soak your infected nails for 30 minutes. Zetaclear is a natural treatment that is known to be highly effective in treating nail fungus infections.
Types of Internal Treatment
-
If you have recently taken a lot of antibiotics, corticosteroids or birth control pills, you may need to do an internal cleanse. Stress, food allergies and chlorinated water can also cause the overgrowth of the candida albicans fungus. Packaged colon cleanses can be used for a month to rid the body of excess candida. You can also eat or juice with vegetables such as cucumbers, radishes and carrots. Vegetables have enzymes that can kill internal fungus. Garlic cloves and virgin coconut oil are some other effective internal fungus remedies.
Prevention/Solution
-
Nail fungus infections can be prevented by maintaining a healthy diet, limiting stress and maintaining proper hygiene. You can also prevent these fungus infections by not wearing wet or sweaty socks for extended periods of time. Also, wash your feet or use an antifungal cream after swimming or using public shower facilities.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Public Domain; Creative Commons
