If you have noticed any changes to your nails, such as hardened, thickened or discolored (or better said, yellowed), it could be onychomycosis. Don't worry as this is usually not a serious problem. You have several solutions to get rid of it. Start treating yourself, perhaps by taking an over-the-counter medication or using a natural remedy. If it persists, your doctor will be able to suggest other treatment options. Once you have recovered, take the necessary steps to ensure that the problem does not recur.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Home Remedies
Step 1. Trim your nails so that the antifungal treatment penetrates deeper
You may be able to get rid of the infection by simply cutting your nails. Even if you can't remove it with scissors alone, try to shorten them so that the treatment can penetrate inside. It will help you fight mycosis.
If you usually prefer to have your toenails a little longer, consider keeping them short when trying to get rid of a fungal infection
Step 2. Remove the white spots if you see them
By removing them, you remove an additional barrier on the nail. Try to eliminate them so that the topical treatment can reach the fungus. Use an Emery file to model the frayed edges or surface stains. Try to rub the infected nail in small, neat strokes to clean it. By doing this, the topical treatment will be more effective.
- File your toenails at least once a week if you notice frayed edges.
- Treat yourself to a professional pedicure. You will have great nails and feel better and more comfortable!
Step 3. Apply antifungal treatment
You can buy it at the pharmacy. It will work both in the form of an ointment and in the form of a cream. Choose the one you prefer. Follow the instructions on the package to apply it. Keep using it for as long as necessary even if the mycosis seems to be gone.
- If you don't know which product to choose, ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice.
- If the over-the-counter treatment is too expensive, you can use Vick's VapoRub instead. Apply a small amount to the affected nail twice a day. It is most effective after a shower because you will already have clean nails. It may take 3-4 months to notice the results.
Step 4. Soak your nails in vinegar once a day if you prefer a natural remedy
If you don't want to resort to medical devices, try eliminating nail fungus with vinegar. Fill a bowl with 2 parts of warm water and 1 parts of white vinegar.
- Keep your feet in the solution for 20 minutes, then rinse them. For best results, try doing this every day.
- There is no scientific evidence confirming the effectiveness of this remedy, but many people claim that vinegar helps eliminate the fungus. There's no harm in trying.
Step 5. Apply garlic if you don't want to use medications
Many people believe in the healing power of garlic even if it is not proven by medical science. It's worth a try, so get some garlic and rub it into your toenails. Just take a clove and apply it directly to the affected nail.
Leave it for 30 minutes. If you feel discomfort, take it off immediately and wash your feet with soap and water
Step 6. Use a few drops of tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is known for its astringent properties, which help eliminate fungus. Apply it without diluting it on the affected nail twice a day for six months. Moisten a cotton ball and wipe it on the infected area. Make sure your feet are clean and dry before proceeding.
You can buy it on the Internet or in any organic food store
Part 2 of 3: See Your Doctor
Step 1. Go to your doctor and tell him about your concerns
If your onychomycosis doesn't go away within a couple of weeks or if it's painful to you, you should see your doctor. Start by calling him on the phone. If he is unable to help you, he will not hesitate to recommend that you go to a podiatrist or dermatologist.
See your doctor right away if you are diabetic. Additional complications associated with onychomycosis may arise
Step 2. Allow him to examine his toenails
The doctor may simply observe and touch the nails to get a better idea of what is going on, but also cut a small piece or scrape some tissue under the nail. Don't worry, it won't hurt you.
- Later, he may send the fragments or the removed tissue to the laboratory to confirm his diagnosis and find out what type of fungus is causing the infection.
- Ask them what could be causing the problem, how it could affect your general health, and if there are alternative treatments.
Step 3. Learn about drug options
If over-the-counter treatments haven't proven effective, your doctor will likely prescribe another medication. There are various types, including:
- Oral antifungal drugs, such as terbinafine and itraconazole. Being the most effective, they are also the most common. Generally, to get rid of nail fungus, just take one tablet within 12 weeks. For example, you can take itraconazole continuously or follow a 12-week periodic therapy. Ask your doctor what the side effects are.
- Cyclopyroxolamine-based medicated nail polish is less effective than oral medications, but may work if the infection is mild or moderate. Your doctor may suggest this if oral medication is not suitable for your health condition. Typically, you just apply it to your nails for 7 days without removing the previous layers, which you can peel off after a week to start over. This treatment lasts 48 weeks, but allows you to avoid the systemic side effects that can occur when taking an oral medication.
- Medicated cream. It is simple to use and is most effective if you soak your nails first. Follow all the doctor's instructions and use it for as long as prescribed.
Step 4. Have the nail removed if necessary
If you have a particularly stubborn or worrying fungal infection, there is a risk that it will not respond well to medication. In this case, your doctor may suggest that you remove the nail. This procedure is carried out on an outpatient basis.
If you are worried about losing your nail, ask your doctor if there are alternatives
Part 3 of 3: Preventing Onicomycosis
Step 1. Treat any underlying disease
There are several fungal microorganisms that can cause onychomycosis and, in general, they are more common in people of advanced age. Although anyone can get a fungal infection, there are some factors that increase the risk. If you suffer from diabetes or circulatory problems, consult your doctor for suitable therapy. It's harder to get rid of a fungus if you don't have to deal with other health problems.
- Remember that older age, smoking, poor circulation, and immunosuppression can promote nail fungus.
- It is not uncommon to get this disease in the pre-adolescent stage, but keep in mind that a family member with onychomycosis poses a risk to others as well.
- It is more difficult to get rid of this problem if you do not have to treat other conditions. If necessary, carefully follow your doctor's instructions regarding nutrition and certain medications, such as insulin.
Step 2. Purchase a pair of shower slippers to wear in public locker rooms
Changing rooms in swimming pools and gyms are breeding grounds for germs. So, buy some plastic or rubber slippers to keep your feet safe in humid environments. You can do an Internet search or buy them at the mall or pharmacy. Wear them in public places where you shower or change your clothes.
Wash them with water and detergent once a week so they don't become a receptacle for fungal microorganisms
Step 3. Wash and moisturize your feet every day
Keeping your feet soft and clean is a great way to prevent nail fungus. Try to wash them thoroughly at least once a day with soap and warm water. Dry them thoroughly and apply the moisturizer.
Wash them more frequently if you sweat a lot or if they get wet for other reasons (for example, if you have been forced to walk in the rain)
Step 4. Keep your shoes and socks dry
Since mold and mildew thrive in humid environments, you need to keep yourself dry. Choose socks made from moisture wicking fabric. Opt for footwear made from breathable materials, such as nylon.
- Bring a spare pair of socks if there is a risk that it will rain when you are away from home.
- Try putting baking soda in your shoes to absorb excess moisture.
Advice
- If you go to a beauty center, make sure all instruments are sterilized.
- Avoid lacquering your toenails. In this way, it will be easier to identify a possible development of onychomycosis in the bud.
- If you choose to live with a fungal nail infection, as is the case with many people, you can hide it by filing your nail and covering it with nail polish.
