Discover the top three effective treatments for toenail fungus, including oral medications, topical solutions, and surgical options, to achieve faster recovery and restore nail health.
Effective Solutions for Toenail Fungal Infections
Toenail fungal infections often begin as pale, whitish spots beneath the nail edges. As the condition progresses, it can cause the nails to discolor, become brittle, and peel at the tips. Thankfully, there are various treatments available to fight the infection. Below are three popular methods to promote quicker healing from toenail fungus.
Common Approaches to Treat Toenail Fungus
The choice of treatment depends on the infection's severity and the specific fungus. Some treatments may take several months for complete recovery. Major options include:
Oral antifungal drugs
Taking antifungal tablets is among the fastest ways to treat toenail fungus.
Available medications can be taken orally or applied directly to the affected nails to foster healthy growth. Because fungal infections are stubborn, doctors usually recommend a treatment span of 6 to 12 weeks or until the nail fully regrows. Long-term medication can cause side effects like skin rashes or liver issues, so ongoing medical supervision is crucial.
Topical antifungal treatments
Doctors often suggest special antifungal nail lacquers or creams. Nail lacquers are applied daily over several months to fully eradicate the fungus. Similarly, medicated creams can be applied directly onto affected nails for targeted treatment. Consistent application over time is necessary for effectiveness.
Surgical intervention
Surgery is typically considered only after other treatments fail. The procedure involves temporarily removing the infected nail to allow direct application of antifungal medications. In persistent cases exceeding a year, permanent removal of the nail might be required to fully eliminate the infection.
Consult your healthcare provider to choose the most suitable treatment plan and effectively resolve toenail fungal infections.