If you have ever had an abnormal toenail fungus condition, you know how painful and embarrassing it can be. The good news is that there are ways to treat this condition.
In this blog post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms and treatment of an abnormal toenail fungus condition. We hope that by the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of this condition and how to treat it effectively.
What Are The Causes Of Abnormal Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is caused by fungi and can be a difficult condition to treat. Common causes of toenail fungus include wearing closed-toe shoes, getting pedicures, and having a chronic illness. Symptoms of toenail fungus may include discoloration of the nail, crumbling or thickened nails, and yellow or white spots under the nail tip. Treatment for this condition generally involves antifungal medications taken orally or applied topically. Other treatments such as laser therapy, surgery, or laser nail resurfacing may also be used in severe cases.
What Are The Symptoms Of Abnormal Toenail Fungus?
People with abnormal toenail fungus may experience a change in the shape, color, and quality of their toenail. Other symptoms may include yellowing or thickening of the nail, crumbling or chipping of the edges and sides of the nail, white spots on the surface of the nail, pain when pressure is applied to the toe or when wearing shoes, and a foul odor coming from underneath the nail. These symptoms may go unnoticed for a long period before they are eventually detected.
How Is An Abnormal Toenail Fungus Diagnosed?
A doctor will diagnose an abnormal toenail fungus by examining debris scraped from underneath the nail. Tests such as a potassium hydroxide (KOH) smear or fungal culture can be used to identify the fungus. The infection may be confirmed with additional tests.
Risk Factors
People of older age and those with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing an abnormal toenail fungus condition. Additionally, people who wear shoes that make their feet sweat heavily and walk barefoot in damp areas may increase their risk. People with athlete’s foot, certain skin conditions such as psoriasis, weakened immune systems, and a genetic predisposition are also more likely to develop an abnormal toenail fungus condition.
Get A Diagnosis
It is important to get a diagnosis from a medical professional in order to properly treat an abnormal toenail fungus condition. Without proper diagnosis, the cause and symptoms of the condition may not be accurately identified, and treatment may not be as effective or appropriate. A physician can diagnose a fungal nail infection by looking at the skin and nails, asking about medical history, and taking a skin and nail fragment sample. If tests don’t show fungus present, a nail biopsy may need to be conducted in order to accurately determine what type of infection is present and provide more detailed information as to how it should be treated appropriately.
What Treatments Can Be Used For Abnormal Toenail Fungus?
Patients with abnormal toenail fungus can be treated with a variety of methods, including trimming the infected nail, applying topical antifungal medication to the nail, taking oral antifungal medication for three months or longer, and undergoing surgery to remove the nail. Other treatments may include toenail growth and combination therapy (taking pills and applying topical medicine). Patients should consult their healthcare provider to determine which treatment plan is best for them.
Antifungal Medication
Antifungal Tablets
Antifungal tablets are medications used to treat fungal infections. They are taken orally or inserted into the vagina to effectively treat yeast infections. The active ingredient in antifungal tablets work by killing off the fungi which cause infection, reducing symptoms and helping to clear up the infection completely. Antifungal tablets can have side effects, such as headaches, itching, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. They can be more effective than using antifungal nail paint which may require multiple applications to be effective and should be used for several months prior to clearing up an infection caused by an abnormal toenail fungus condition.
Antifungal Nail Paint
Antifungal nail paint is a topical solution used to treat abnormal toenail fungus. It works by softening and removing infected parts of the nail over a few weeks, rather than using antifungal tablets for long-term treatment. To use the treatment, one must wash and dry the area thoroughly before carefully applying the paste to the infected nails and covering them with plasters. After 24 hours, they can then wash off the paste, repeating this process each day for 2 – 3 weeks until no more infected parts of nails remain. It is recommended that one also asks their pharmacist for antifungal nail paint in order to prevent re-infection as their healthy nail grows back over time.
Results of Treatment
The use of antifungal medication has been found to be effective in treating fungal infections. Research shows that these medications can help reduce the symptoms of a fungal infection, and may even lead to a long-term cure in some cases. However, it is important to note that there is little evidence supporting the effectiveness of antifungal medication for curing an abnormal toenail fungus condition. Additionally, some treatments may be expensive and not covered by the NHS.
Home Remedies
Home remedies are often suggested as a first line of treatment for an abnormal toenail fungus condition. Some home remedies that have been found to be effective include the use of vinegar, tea tree oil, and baking soda. Additionally, keeping the affected area clean and dry is important in preventing the spread of the infection. Surgery is sometimes necessary to remove the nail if it is severely damaged or causing pain.
Prevention
Good hand and foot hygiene is essential in preventing the spread of colds and flu. Keeping nails short, dry, and clean helps reduce the risk of getting a nail fungus infection. Additionally, wearing socks that breathe can help reduce exposure to moisture in the air. To prevent germs from spreading, people should avoid picking or biting their nails as well as refrain from sharing shoes or socks with others. Washing hands regularly is also key in keeping colds and flu at bay. Lastly, using artificial nails less often helps lower chances of getting sick due to bacterial or fungal infections caused via contact with contaminated surfaces.
Softening And Scraping Away The Nail
One method of treating an abnormal toenail fungus condition is to visit a pharmacy and purchase a treatment kit containing a 40% urea paste, plasters, and a scraping device. The treatment should be applied and left for 24 hours then washed off the next day, with the process being repeated daily for 2-3 weeks until no more infected parts of the nail can be scraped away. Once the treatment is finished, it is recommended to use antifungal nail paint to prevent re-infection.
Removing The Nail
They can remove an abnormal toenail fungus by first washing the area and drying it thoroughly. Then, they should carefully apply the paste to the infected nails and cover them with a plaster. The paste should be left on for 24 hours, then washed off and scraped away the softened parts of the nail. This process should be repeated each day for 2-3 weeks until all of the fungus is gone. Afterward, they can ask their pharmacist for antifungal nail paint to prevent re-infection. If their infection is severe or pain-causing, a surgery may be recommended and if the nail is surgically removed, it may take a long time for the new nail to grow back completely
Laser Treatment
Laser treatment is a medical procedure used to treat abnormal toenail fungus conditions. It works by emitting focused beams of light that destroy the cells of the fungi causing the infection, while leaving healthy tissue intact. The procedure may need to be repeated several times over a period of up to a year in order to completely eliminate the infection. Laser treatment is not covered by most insurance plans and can be expensive.
How Can You Prevent An Abnormal Toenail Fungus From Recurring?
To prevent an abnormal toenail fungus from recurring, it is important for individuals to practice regular hand washing and keep their nails trimmed straight across and filed down if they are thickened. Additionally, wearing sweat-absorbing socks or changing them throughout the day can help keep fungi away. To further protect against the spread of fungi, individuals should avoid using nail polish or artificial nails and keep their nails short. Rubber gloves should be worn when exposed to water, and people should not go barefoot in public areas or pick at or trim their own toenails.
Know Your Toes
Top Picks
According to research, the best toe products for treating nail fungus include Vicks VapoRub, Snakeroot extract, oregano oil combined with tea tree oil, and ozonized oils such as olive oil and sunflower oil. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the use of alternative toe products for treating nail fungus.
Health Solutions
The reference offers health solutions for different problems associated with the toes. Examples of these solutions include signing up for Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School to receive helpful tips and guidance, as well as getting a free copy of “The Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness” when you sign up. Additionally, The Mayo Clinic Book of Home Remedies can provide guidance on solving these problems.
Fast Facts On Nail Fungal Infection
Nail fungal infection, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi can cause an infection when they proliferate in warm and moist environments near the nail bed. The most common types of fungi responsible for nail fungal infections include Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton interdigitale, as well as more uncommon molds like neoscytalidium, scopulariopsis and aspergillus. Pathogens can enter the skin through tiny cuts or separations between nails and nail bed.
FAQs
What Is Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is a common infection caused by fungi entering between the toenail and the nail bed. This type of infection can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Symptoms may include discolored, thickened, or brittle nails, as well as pain and itching. To treat an abnormal toenail fungus condition, people should use antifungal medications that are available both over-the-counter and by prescription. It is also important to practice good hygiene such as keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing socks made from breathable fabrics, avoiding tight shoes or walking barefoot in public areas such as swimming pools and showers.
What Are The Symptoms Of Toenail Fungus?
Symptoms of toenail fungus include a yellowish or white discoloration of the toenails, thickening and brittleness of the nails, and a foul odor. Toenail fungus can cause pain, difficulty walking, and even amputation if left untreated. Treating toenail fungus is important because it can prevent further deterioration of the nail and reduce discomfort caused by the infection.
What Are The Causes Of Toenail Fungus?
The causes of toenail fungus can include infection by a type of mold called a dermatophyte. Dermatophytes feed off of keratin, which makes nails hard and can lead to the development of toenail fungal infections. Other fungi may also cause these infections as well.
What Are The Risks Of Toenail Fungus?
The risks of toenail fungus include pain, nail loss, and difficulty getting rid of the condition. It is important to seek treatment from a trusted healthcare provider as soon as possible in order to reduce the risk of any complications associated with an abnormal toenail fungus condition. Left untreated, the fungus can spread and cause additional discomfort or even permanent damage.
How Is Toenail Fungus Diagnosed?
To diagnose toenail fungus, a healthcare provider will usually look at the affected toe and perform tests such as a KOH smear or fungal culture. To be certain of the diagnosis, debris scraped from underneath the nail may be examined. Although toenail fungus can often be identified easily due to its symptoms of pain and redness, it is also possible for it to be mistaken for other conditions.
What Are The Treatment Options For Toenail Fungus?
The treatment options for toenail fungus include oral antifungals, topical medication, and laser treatments. Oral antifungals are the most common treatment option and must be taken with a doctor’s guidance and supervision. Topical medications can be used alongside oral medications to maximize effectivity. Laser treatments are FDA approved for providing temporary relief from the condition but do not provide a complete cure. In order to best treat an abnormal toenail fungus condition, taking oral antifungal medication is recommended by medical professionals.
What Are The Side Effects Of Toenail Fungus reatments?
The side effects of toenail fungus treatments can vary depending on the type of treatment. Common side effects may include redness and swelling, an ingrown nail, or stinging or burning when applied. Oral antifungal medications may cause abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea and headaches. Surgery used to treat toenail fungus can lead to scarring and infection. It is important for patients receiving any form of treatment for their toenail fungus condition to discuss with their doctor the potential side effects before starting a treatment plan in order to ensure that it is well-tolerated by the individual’s body.
How Can Toenail Fungus Be Prevented?
To prevent toenail fungus, it is important to keep feet dry and wear shoes that fit correctly and are breathable. Additionally, nail trimming should be done carefully as damaged nails may make an individual more susceptible to nail fungus. Socks, bedding, and towels should also be washed at 60 degrees Celsius or more. To further avoid infection, one should avoid barefooting in communal areas and use flip flops in public places. Those with diabetes must follow all foot care recommendations from their healthcare providers. Additionally, feet should be thoroughly dried after showers or baths and the edges of the nails cut straight across instead of rounded off when trimming them.
What Is The Prognosis For Toenail Fungus?
The prognosis for toenail fungus is dependent upon the person’s age, medical history, and the severity of the infection. Generally speaking, younger people with minor infections have a better chance of full recovery than older people with more severe infections. An effective treatment plan can greatly reduce symptoms and improve the appearance and health of affected nails. In some cases, however, it may take several months or even years for an infected nail to fully recover from a fungal infection.
What Is The Cure Rate For Toenail Fungus?
The cure rate for toenail fungus is generally lower when using laser treatment compared to topical and oral medications. The US Food and Drug Administration has approved four medicines that can be applied to nails, which have a lower cure rate than antifungal pills, but work more quickly. Studies have shown that after two months of taking antifungal pills, about three out of four people will have a successful outcome. Systemic medicines work throughout the body and can be more effective when taken together than taking pills and applying medicine to nails on their own.