Onychomycosis is the medical term used for toenail fungus. It’s a common infection that affects many people. A noticeable symptom includes nail discolouration, thickening, and cracking. Over time, the affected nail lifts up from the nail bed. The problem with this condition is that it spreads to other parts of the foot. Over time, it can cause discomfort and pain.
Most who suffer from toenail fungus symptoms tend to ignore the condition. It doesn’t cause any pain, and there’s a misconception that it will go away. Yet, it will only get worse without treatment. Also, when the condition is severe, it becomes harder to treat. As such, let’s discuss the five best treatment options for toenail fungus.
Oral anti-fungal medication
To diagnose the condition, the dermatologist will take a sample of the affected area. The analysis will determine if the infection is fungal, which is critical to prescribing the right medication. Fungal nail tablets that contain Fluconazole or Terbinafine are the most commonly prescribed. Depending on how severe, you may need to take the tablets for a long period of time. When taking an oral medication, results aren’t instant. The goal is to target the infection from the inside and kill the fungus completely.
Foot soak containing tea tree oil
If you’re looking for natural medication, a foot soak containing tea tree oil is an excellent idea. This oil is well-known for its ability to kill bacteria and fungi. Also, some studies show that tea tree oil is indeed effective in treating toenail fungus.
A foot soak may contain other ingredients such as Epsom salt which is relaxing soothing. These combined components will help in drying out the fungus so that it doesn’t spread to other parts of the foot. Regular soaking is an excellent choice if you want to treat the fungus and relax at the same time.
Topical antifungal cream or ointment
Apart from oral medication, topical creams and ointments are also effective in treating most fungal infections. There are over-the-counter products available that are suitable for mild infections. However, when the condition becomes worse, you may need a prescription-grade ointment to treat the affected area.
Nail renewal kits
These days, there are nail renewal kits specifically manufactured to treat toenail fungus. The kit will include a medicated wash to disinfect the area, a solution that comes in a nail-polish form, and a nail treatment applied at night. The combination of products in the kit will help in medicating, as well as preventing the symptoms from getting any worse.
Read More: Top tips to use a nail grinder for your dog
Medicated nail polish
Medicated nail polish contains active ingredients such as Hydroxybeonzoic acid. This comes in convenient packaging for easy application. Some brands design a pen-like container that you can bring with you anywhere. Regular application of at least three times every day is recommended if you want to see positive results.
Final thoughts
Don’t just treat nail fungus as a simple annoyance. If ignored, it will spread and cause discomfort. As soon as you notice symptoms, consult a dermatologist right away. You’ll get diagnosed and prescribed the right treatment suited for your condition.
