Combating Fingernail and Toenail Fungus

One of the most unsightly and generally unappealing conditions that a person can develop is a fungal infection of the finger or toe nails. While not considered harmful or threatening to your health, it is a severe cosmetic problem that can force shyness and low self-esteem in social situations. It is a relatively common problem amongst people of all stations and in all situations and also readily treatable by one or more of many pharmaceutical or alternative remedies.

Nail fungus is scientifically classified as onychomycosis. The fungi that infect the nails are microscopic and love warm, moist environments. The most common of these fungi that invade the nail beds of humans is from a group known as dermatophytes, however, according to the Mayo Clinic at mayoclinic.com the yeasts and molds can be to blame as well. Because these fungi spawn in warm and moist conditions, they are more common in the toes than in the fingers because many keep their feet confined within non or only semi-breathable shoes.

The most common symptoms of a fungal infection in the nails are a discoloration of the nail and unnatural thickness. Discoloration of opaque white or a yellowing is also seen. The edges of the nail may develop crumbling edges and if the infection is deep enough, the fungus will cause the nail to separate from the skin and in extreme cases, the nail may fall off completely.

The best way to treat nail fungus, as with all infections, is through care and prevention. Always keep your nails short and trimmed to prevent retention of dirt and moisture. Wear rubber gloves when working with water for long periods of time and wash your hands and feet on a regular basis. If you sweat excessively, wear synthetic socks that will wick away moisture to keep your feet dry. Remove your shoes whenever you have a chance, especially at home where they are usually not needed. Since these infections can be transmitted from person to person, shoes of some sort should always be worn in public places.

Once you have a nail infection, there are a few pharmaceutical medications that could be prescribed by a doctor. These are both oral and topical. Oral medications include, Itraconazole (brand name-Sporanox), Fluconazole (brand name-Difucan), and Terbinafine (brand name-Lamisil). Oral treatments usually take six to twelve weeks for the infection to subside and you must also wait for a new nail to grow out, replacing the damaged portion. Topical medications or an antifungal lacquer that is painted on the nail daily may also be prescribed.

Home and alternative remedies for onychomycosis have also been used effectively, however, there are few, if any, scientific trials to back these up. Soaking the infected nails in a 33% vinegar solution for 15 to 20 minutes daily will kill many forms of fungi. Word has also spread that Vicks VapoRub can be applied and left on overnight or throughout the day to kill nail fungus.

Other methods include dabbing the infected nails with a combination of tea tree oil and lavender oil 2-3 times daily, soaking in a solution of 50% vinegar and 50% Listerine, and dabbing the infected nails with Vitamin E oil.

Whichever method you use, there will be no fast cure. Once the fungus infection has taken hold, even with treatment, you will need to be patient. It will take time for the treatment and also you will need time for the new nail to grow back, replacing the damaged one.