Toenail fungal infections are very common, affecting approximately 1 in 10 people (including 50% of adults over the age of 70). Fungal infections are, as the name suggests, caused by a fungus. They can affect any part of the body; in addition to fungal nail infections, athlete’s foot, ringworm, and yeast infections are also common.
If you are interested in learning more about this condition and fungal toenail infection treatment options, then this blog post is for you. Continue reading to learn about fungal nail infection, treatment options, and tips to prevent infection.
What Is a Fungal Toenail Infection?
A fungal infection that affects the toenails or fingernails is known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium. While fungi are normally present both in and on the body, when a fungus begins to overgrow, it can lead to infection.
Those who are at higher risk of fungal nail infections include people:
- With diabetes
- With poor circulation
- Aged over 65
- Who swim in public pools
- With nail or skin injuries
- With a weakened immune system
Nail fungal infections are more common in men than in women. There are also different kinds of toenail fungus, which include:
- Distal subungual infection
- White superficial infection
- Proximal subungual infection
- Candida infection
If you think that you may have a fungal toenail infection, you should visit your doctor.
What Treatment Options Are Available?
There are a number of effective treatment options for fungal nail infections, including oral antifungal medication, topical solutions, and home remedies.
Oral antifungal medications include terbinafine, itraconazole, fluconazole, and griseofulvin. Topical solutions include Kerydin. You can order Kerydin online here from PharmaPassport.com (a prescription is required).
Home remedies for toenail fungus include snakeroot extract, tea tree oil, oregano oil, olive leaf extract, ozonized oils, and Listerine mouthwash. These options may be effective for mild-to-moderation toenail fungus, though they can take longer to work.
How to Prevent Fungal Toenail Infection?
There are a number of preventative steps that you can take. Some tips to prevent fungal nail infections include:
- Drying your feet well after showering
- Washing your hands are touching infected nails
- Avoiding going barefoot in public places such as swimming pools
- Reducing your use of artificial nails and polish
- Avoiding untrustworthy nail salons
It is also recommended that you take good care of your nails by keeping them clean and well-trimmed. Wearing rubber gloves while working can also help to protect your nails from injury.
Effective Fungal Toenail Infection Treatment
If you notice thickening or discoloration of your toenails, or experience pain or discomfort when placing pressure on your toenails, you may have a fungal toenail infection.
The above-listed fungal toenail infection treatment options are effective at curing infections. We recommend that you speak to a doctor about the best treatment option for you you.
Like this blog post on toenail fungus treatment? Be sure to check out our other informative articles on a wide range of interesting topics.
