Toenail Fungus — Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. (2024)

Toenail fungus is a frustrating and embarrassing problem for many people. It can be persistent and hard to get rid of. Thankfully, there are a number of options for treatment available.

The most effective treatment for toenail fungus is Lamisil. However, any anti-fungal treatment sold to get rid of athlete's foot can also be used. In the ingredients list on products sold to kill fungal growth on the body, look for the ingredient terbinafine. Terbinafine is a chemical product that kills fungal growths. Using a product with terbinafine in it will essentially damage the cell membrane of the fungus organism. However, don't expect immediate results. You will need to apply the medication regularly, and make sure to keep washing the affected area and drying it thoroughly. The fungus needs moisture, air and your skin to live.

Taking other precautions can also help with fungus. Use a powder such as talcum powder in the shoes to absorb sweat and moisture. It is also important to wear sandals or loose-fitting, open-toed shoes which will improve air-flow around the feet, keeping the feet dry. These kinds of shoes will also expose your feet to light, which is not favorable to fungus growth. Wearing socks that wick moisture and dry quickly will also help control fungus.

Although Lamisil and other medications containing terbinafine have been proven effective, they also cause a number of side effects which may be undesirable. If you decide that this kind of medication is not for you, there are a number of natural remedies to try. Applying alcohol, tea tree oil, hydrogen peroxide, or Vicks VapoRub to the nail regularly may solve the problem.

Your podiatrist might also recommend soaking your toenails in a gentle bleach solution. Anecdotal evidence suggests that vinegar and Listerine may also be effective when used as a soaking solution. These are simple treatments, but ones that require patience and consistency. There are also topical products available from your pharmacy which is manufactured especially for toenail fungus.

There are more immediate treatments for toenail fungus available using laser surgery. If you are looking for an immediate and quick removal of the toenail fungus, you will need to find a laser surgeon who can cut the growth out of your toenail. Don't try to cut the toenail fungus out using toenail scissors or other kinds of scissors. Once you get rid of your fungus infection, you will need to throw out your old shoes to avoid reinfection.

ContactPodiatry Group of Annapolisand let us help with all your foot and ankle needs. Dr. James Mckee and Dr. Adam Weaver are experienced and dedicated podiatrists who provide high-quality individualized care. Call us today at 410-224-4448 orvisit us onlineto make an appointment at our conveniently located Annapolis office.

Toenail Fungus — Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. (2024)

FAQs

What is the most successful treatment for toenail fungus? ›

Studies show that taking antifungal pills and applying medicine to your nails can be more effective than using either treatment alone. Nail removal: If you have a severe infection or other treatments just don't work, your dermatologist may recommend removing the nail(s) to get rid of the infection.

Who is the best person to see for toenail fungus? ›

You're likely to start by seeing your primary care provider. In some cases when you call to set up an appointment, you may be referred immediately to either a doctor who specializes in skin conditions (dermatologist) or one who specializes in foot conditions (podiatrist).

Can hydrogen peroxide get rid of toenail fungus? ›

A: Hydrogen peroxide may have some antifungal properties, but it is unlikely to cure toenail fungus on its own. It is best to consult with a WeTreatFeet Podiatrist l for a personalized treatment plan.

Can a podiatrist get rid of toenail fungus? ›

Your podiatrist can detect a fungal infection early, perform a lab test, determine the cause, and form a suitable treatment plan, which may include prescribing topical or oral medication, and debridement (removal of diseased nail matter and debris) of an infected nail.

What kills toenail fungus permanently? ›

Revolutionary nail fungus laser therapy has an 80% success rate. Instead of medications or debridement, Dr. Frankel offers a laser therapy treatment with an 80% success rate at permanently treating nail fungus. It's painless and performed in-office with three 10-minute procedures every four weeks.

What kills toenail fungus the fastest? ›

The condition can be a pain to eliminate, and toenail infections are not easily killed. But don't lose hope! This article discusses why common treatments like tea tree oil, creams or antifungal medications might fail, but a fast solution to eliminate toenail fungus is Clearanail's Fungal Nail treatment.

What one cup of this will destroy your nail fungus? ›

take 1 cup of apple cider vinegar( the best vinegar is the one with the mother) and one cup of Hydrogen peroxide 3% only(*WARNING*) any higher in percentage you could destroy your nails.. mix the two together.. soak your nails that have fungus for 30 minutes daily for 30 days ..

What happens if you have toenail fungus for too long? ›

A severe case of nail fungus can be painful and may cause permanent damage to your nails. And it may lead to other serious infections that spread beyond your feet if you have a suppressed immune system due to medication, diabetes or other conditions.

What worsens toenail fungus? ›

With that in mind, several things may cause or worsen toenail fungus, including: tight-fitting shoes. sweaty feet, mainly when confined inside shoes. damp socks.

How I killed my toenail fungus? ›

Toenail Fungus Home Care

You can try: Over the counter antifungal creams or ointments. File or cut off any white markings on your nails. Soak your nails in water and dry off before you put on the medicated cream.

Can you scrape out toenail fungus? ›

If your fungus doesn't clear up at home, you should check in with a dermatologist (a skin, hair, and nail specialist) or podiatrist (a foot doctor.) They may gently scrape under your nail to get rid of some of the fungus or send it to the lab for diagnosis. They can also prescribe stronger medicines. Topical medicines.

What kills nail fungus fast naturally? ›

What home remedy kills toenail fungus?
  • Vicks VapoRub. Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment. ...
  • Snakeroot extract. Snakeroot (Ageratina pichinchensis) extract is an antifungal made from plants in the sunflower family. ...
  • Tea tree oil. ...
  • Oregano oil. ...
  • Ozonized oils. ...
  • Listerine mouthwash. ...
  • Garlic. ...
  • Apple cider vinegar.

What not to do with toenail fungus? ›

don't keep your feet clean and dry. wear shoes that cause your feet to get hot and sweaty. walk around barefoot in places where fungal infections can spread easily, like communal showers, locker rooms and gyms. have damaged your nails.

Is it better to see a podiatrist or dermatologist for toenail fungus? ›

For prompt, effective treatment of your toe nail condition, you should see a podiatrist as soon as possible, especially if you notice certain changes to your nails. These abnormalities may include toenail deformities, discoloration, or thickening.

Why won't my toenail fungus go away? ›

Toenails are made up of multiple layers stacked on top of each other. Toenail fungus can be tough to get rid of because it can get into and in between those layers. It may also sit on top of the nail or grow underneath it. In some cases, fungus can get into the cells that make the nail, called the nail matrix.

What is the number one toenail fungus removal? ›

Best Solution

Undecylenic acid works to kill the toenail fungus and prevent regrowth, while tea tree and lavender oil soothe the skin. For optimal results, apply the solution on the cuticles and skin surrounding the nail. This helps the product penetrate underneath the nail bed to address the fungus.

What is the strongest over the counter toenail fungus medicine? ›

clotrimazole (FungiCure Intensive)

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Nathanial Hackett

Last Updated:

Views: 6647

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (52 voted)

Reviews: 83% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Nathanial Hackett

Birthday: 1997-10-09

Address: Apt. 935 264 Abshire Canyon, South Nerissachester, NM 01800

Phone: +9752624861224

Job: Forward Technology Assistant

Hobby: Listening to music, Shopping, Vacation, Baton twirling, Flower arranging, Blacksmithing, Do it yourself

Introduction: My name is Nathanial Hackett, I am a lovely, curious, smiling, lively, thoughtful, courageous, lively person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.