What kills toe fungus the fastest? Treatment isn’t always needed, but oral drugs, creams, and medicated polish may be prescribed by your podiatrist.
Toe fungus is a common infection that affects the nails of the toes. It’s caused by a fungus that can live in a warm, moist environment, like inside the shoes where the feet sweat. While toe fungus can affect people of all ages, Dr. Danielle Malin, a podiatrist in Pulaski, TN, explains that it’s most common in older adults.
What Are The Symptoms Of Toe Fungus?
Discoloration is by far the most common symptom associated with toe fungus. The nails of the toe may become thick, yellow, brown, or more darkly discolored. They may also become brittle and cracked and, in some cases, may separate from the nail bed.
The podiatrist further explains that pain and tenderness around the nail, swelling, and a foul odor may also indicate toe or foot fungus. If you notice any of the symptoms, it’s time to make an appointment with your podiatrist. Many people in Pulaski, TN, experienced toe fungus because they wear heavy work boots that don’t allow for proper airflow around the feet and toes.
What Causes Toe Fungus?
Toe fungus can only be caused by specific fungus that thrives in a moist and warm environment. This fungus can easily enter through small cracks in the skin around the toe and can spread from person to person through contact with swimming pool decks, nail salons, and shower floors.
According to the podiatrist, older individuals, those with diabetes or weakened immune system, and people who are exposed to damp conditions for extended periods of time are most at risk. Further, people who wear tight shoes or have sweaty feet also have an increased risk of toe fungus.
What Kills Toe Fungus The Fastest?
According to Dr. Daniel Malin, many podiatrists will take a wait-and-see approach to mild cases of foot fungus. It’s possible that it will clear up on its own. However, the first drug of choice tends to be oral antifungal drugs, such as Sporanox. These allow for new nail growth, which replaces the infected nail. Oral antifungal medications are taken for up to 12 weeks, but the podiatrist explains that it can take several months to eliminate an infection fully.
Another effective treatment for nail fungus is medicated nail polish. Your podiatrist may prescribe ciclopirox, which must be painted on the infected toe or toes for up to a year. Another option is medicated nail cream, which is rubbed into the nail bed and nail tissue after soaking. Creams are most effective in individuals with thinner nails.
Will I Have To Have Surgery For Nail Fungus?
Dr. Danielle Malin says that surgery is often unnecessary for toe fungus. However, the podiatrist does say that some people may need to have their nail removed entirely so that their antifungal medications may be applied directly to the infected area under the nail bed. Temporary removal allows for the nail to regrow. In very rare cases, the podiatrist says that the nail may have to be removed at its root to prevent regrowth and reinfection.
Nobody wants to walk around with thick, yellow nails and the discomfort that goes along with toe fungus. However, there are many treatment options. Dr. Danielle Malin sees toe fungus cases in her practice office every day and offers options for those looking to reclaim their feet.
