Treatments For Fungal Nail Infections
Treatment isn’t always needed for a mild fungal nail infection because it’s unlikely to cause any further problems and you may feel it’s not worth treating.
Whether you decide to have treatment or not, you should still practise good foot hygiene to stop the infection getting worse or spreading to others.
Speak to your GP or pharmacist if you’re bothered by the appearance of the affected nail, or it’s causing problems such as pain and discomfort. They’ll probably recommend:
- antifungal tablets tablets taken once or twice a day for several months
- antifungal nail paints special paints applied directly to the nail over several months
- nail softening kits where a paste is used to soften infected parts of the nail, before they’re removed with a scraping device
A procedure to remove the nail completely may be recommended in severe cases. Laser treatment, where a high-energy laser is used to destroy the fungus, is also an option. But this is only available privately and can be expensive.
You can reduce your risk of developing a fungal nail infection by:
Nail salon equipment can sometimes be the source of fungal nail infections. If you regularly visit a salon, make sure any equipment used is properly sterilised between uses.
Signs And Symptoms Of Foot Fungus
Itchy skin is an early sign of foot fungus, or scaly, peeling skin, or tiny blisters on the skin that will pop at times, says Sundling. The skin tends to break out in the shape of a moccasin, or the area of the foot that a moccasin would cover. You dont see foot fungus on the top of the foot very often. Its common to get a fungal infection between the toes as well, she adds.
Can I Get Toenail Fungus From Pedicures
Put simply, yes: you can get fungal nail infections from pedicures.
As nail salons see plenty of bare feet coming and going, theres lots of opportunity for people to bring toenail fungus into the salon, and consequently on the pedicurists hands and tools, into the foot baths, and even on the nail polish itself.
If you happen to have a small cut or opening near your nail bed which is relatively likely if your pedicurist is trimming your cuticles or cutting your nails then all that fungus from the other customers will be introduced straight into your nail. And if youre prone to infection, you can expect a fungal nail infection in no time at all.
The best way to avoid this is to choose a really hygienic nail salon that refuses to treat people with visible toenail fungus.
Feel free to ask how they sterilise their tools, if they change their gloves between customers and whether theyve disinfected the footstools and baths before you use them.
Many nail salons these days use disposable emery boards and pumice stones, while metal tools are put into a sterilising packet and autoclaved.
Its much harder to avoid fungus from nail polish as the brush obviously cant be sterilised between customers. Some nail salons will include the cost of a small pot of unopened polish in the cost of a pedicure. It may cost a little more but is likely cheaper than long-term treatment for toenail fungus!
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Can I Get Fungus From A Pedicure
Theres nothing quite as relaxing as a visit to the salon for a relaxing pedicure. But if youve heard horror stories from other people about how they caught an awful fungal infection after getting a routine pedicure, its understandable if youre a little concerned. So, what does this mean for your monthly indulgence? Should you stop going to the pedicurist altogether? Is it even true that pedicures can put you at risk of fungal infections? Here are some answers as well as some handy tips to help you keep up your beauty regimen without raising the health risks from exposure to fungi and bacteria.
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Cure Athletes Foot Immediately
If you allow the fungal infection to remain on your foot then it will definitely get spread and become worse. Your carelessness on your foot will increase the risk of its spreading to your nails. Stop the potential spread by curing the athletic food as soon as possible. Mild cases of athletic foot can be treated with over counter medications. Serious toenail fungus infection requires prescription strength medication. Visit to doctor and ask the option for you.
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Toenail Fungus Home Care
Sometimes itâs possible to treat your toenail fungus at home. You can try:
- Over the counter antifungal creams or ointments. File or cut off any white markings on your nails. Soak your nails in water and dry off before you put on the medicated cream.
- Special nail care. If you keep your nails trimmed, it can reduce the pressure and pain you feel. You can also thin your nail bed by filing it down. This can help antifungal creams get to the problem easier.
Q: Why Should I Treat My Fungal Infection
People often ignore mild cases of fungal infections, which can turn out to be a big mistake. If treated immediately, there is a much higher success rate and a lower chance of the infection spreading to other nails. Keep in mind that toenail fungi spread quickly and can affect the entire foot in no time.
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What Disadvantages Do The Tablets Have
Tablets for fungal infections cause more side effects than topical medications do. The possible side effects of itraconazole include headaches, dizziness, gastrointestinal problems and rashes. Terbinafine can cause gastrointestinal problems and a temporary loss of taste and smell. But these kinds of side effects didnt last long in the studies. Because both medications can interact with other drugs, its important to let your doctor know about any other medication you are taking.
Theres a very small risk of serious liver damage. For this reason, people with a liver disease are only given these medications if its absolutely necessary.
Tips To Prevent Fungal Nail Infections
Making a few simple lifestyle changes can help prevent a fungal infection of the nails. Taking good care of your nails by keeping them well trimmed and clean is a good way to prevent infections.
Also avoid injuring the skin around your nails. If youre going to have damp or wet hands for an extended amount of time, you may want to wear rubber gloves.
Other ways to prevent fungal infections of the nails include:
- washing your hands after touching infected nails
- drying your feet well after showering, especially between your toes
- getting manicures or pedicures from trustworthy salons
- avoiding being barefoot in public places
- reducing your use of artificial nails and nail polish
Products to help you avoid nail fungus
If youre prone to excessive moisture around your fingernails or toenails, consider buying:
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Keep Them Dryand Clean
SAL3 Salicylic Acid Sulfur Soap Bar
SAL3 Salicylic Acid Sulfur Soap Bar
To prevent fungus from gaining a toehold, try a 10 percent sulfur-based soap for its natural antifungal properties, says Sarina Elmariah, MD, a dermatologist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Dry feet thoroughly , and sprinkle them with antifungal powder if youre prone to athletes foot. Another good idea, says Dr. Kramer, is to spray some disinfectant on a rag and use it to wipe the insides of your shoes every time you take them off. This kills any fungus spores.
Who Is At Risk Of Getting A Fungal Nail Infection
Fungal nail infections can affect anyone as they are very contagious but are most prevalent in older individuals. You are more likely to develop fungal nail if you are over the age of 60. Gender also plays a role, with men three times more likely to have a fungal nail infection than women.
Other risk factors include:
-
Diseases that cause poor blood circulation
-
A weakened immune system
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Toenail Fungus Prescription Medication Treatments
Sometimes prescription medications are needed to treat a toenail infection that just wont go away with natural remedies or over-the-counter medication in a few months. In this case, prescription-strength antifungal medication can eradicate stubborn onychomycosis.
Topical antifungal medications often are effective in treating mild to moderate toenail fungus. Topical solutions may include medicated nail polishes or liquid medications. Penlac , Kerydin , and Jublia are among the top prescription drugs for toenail fungus. Some topical treatments require you to file down the surface of the nail to help the treatment get through to the nail bed. If your healthcare provider prescribes a topical medication, follow the instructions carefully for application and removal.
Oral antifungal medications can come in capsules, tablets, or liquid. Some common prescriptions are Diflucan , Lamisil , Onmel , and Sporanox .
How To Prevent Both Foot And Toenail Fungus
While toenail fungus and foot fungus arent the same condition, the following tips can help you prevent both, says Sundling:
- Practice good hygiene, such as keeping your feet clean.
- Alternate your shoes during the week. Your feet sweat all day long. Alternating your shoes allows them to dry out, so the fungus cant survive.
- Wear moisture-wicking socks that help dry out shoes and kill fungus. You can find these at running stores and athletic stores. If your socks are exceptionally sweaty, changing them more than once per day can help.
- Wear shoes in public places like locker rooms, pools, and gyms to limit exposure to fungus.
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When To Seek Medical Help
See your doctor if your itchy feet dont improve with home care or if your symptoms get worse with time.
Your doctor will take a thorough medical history and conduct a physical exam to diagnose itchy feet causes. The questions they might ask you include:
- Have you recently started taking any new medications?
- Have you been exposed to any potential irritants?
- Do you have any chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes mellitus or eczema?
- Have any family members, friends, or teammates recently experienced any skin-related concerns?
If necessary, your doctor can perform tests including:
Some tests can check areas in or on top of your skin for the presence of germs, such as a fungus.
Your doctor will treat itchy feet according to the cause. For allergic reactions, avoiding the product or products causing the allergic reaction can help to reduce itchiness.
Treatments that may relieve itchy feet include the following:
Avoid Further Contamination To Get Rid Foot Fungus
This infection can be the cause of a contamination such as exposure through public places. The fungus also grows in warm, moist environments and can simply enter your body through cuts. You should not share shoes or towels with anyone while having foot fungus. This can spread the disease to another person as well. Avoid walking barefoot in public swimming pools, locker rooms, communal showers, or gyms. Wash your hands with soap after touching the infected foot to keep it from spreading to uninfected nails. Preventions are key to prevent foot fungus from spreading.
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Foot Fungus Prevention Tips
Of course, bad habits that lead to foot fungal infections should be avoided. Decrease your chances of getting infected by following the tips below:
Wash your hands and feet regularly. Keep your nails short and dry.
Hygiene is the main emphasis here. Wash your hands and feet with soap and rinse thoroughly, including between the toes. Trim and file your nails.
Wear socks that absorb sweat.
Socks made from fabrics like wool and nylon are effective at wicking away moisture. Change your socks often if you have sweaty feet.
Get smart shoes.
Choose shoes that reduce humidity such as open-toe footwear. If possible, avoid wearing old shoes that harbor fungi and cause infections. Treat your footwear with disinfecting antifungal powders or sprays. Avoid tight shoes make sure your toes can wiggle around.
Do not walk barefoot in public areas.
Wear sandals or shoes around pools, showers, and locker rooms.
Choose a reputable nail salon.
Although it may seem expensive, dont forget that cheap is expensive. Make sure that the place where you get your pedicures sterilize their instruments. If possible, bring your tools and disinfect them. Also avoid artificial nails, because they trap unwanted moisture and cause infections.
Protect your nails and feet from trauma.
Trauma to your feet and toenails can provide an opening for fungi to enter. Be careful not to bump into things to avoid injuries to your feet.
Strengthen your immune system.
Watch for warning signs.
Keep Your Feet Dry And Clean
Its important to prevent athletes foot. Fungus can grow in dark, moist areas, making your feet an ideal place for athletes feet to develop. If you have athletes foot , keep your feet as dry and clean as possible.
Change your socks regularly. As soon as youre done working out, clean your feet and put on a fresh pair of socks. Dry the space between your toes. Dont go barefoot in public pool or gym areas.
You should also use shoes that are well ventilated and allow your feet to breathe to help athletes foot resolve more quickly.
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Think Twice About Footwear
Shoes made out of breathable materials are perfect in the prevention of fungus infections. It is also best to alternate your footwear, wearing each pair every other day and disinfecting them after each use with disinfectant or antibacterial wipes or sprays. This allows your shoes to dry out completely before wearing them again, reducing moisture that can be trapped after usage. While it is recommended to wear sandals around public areas, such as swimming pools and shower rooms, try not to share footwear with others due to the highly contagious nature of the Foot Rot infection.
For socks, natural fibres such as cotton or wool are popular choices but not the best ones as the materials tend to retain moisture. Thus, synthetic fibre socks are the better choice as they do a good job in wicking sweat and moisture from the feet. Washing your socks after each use or a heavy workout session is a good prevention method as well.
Use Vinegar To Remove Fungus From Shoes
Known for its acidic properties, vinegar tends to slow down the multiplication of the bacteria causing foot fungus by lowering its pH level. Vinegar is readily available in food stores and in supermarkets if you insist on using this method.
After getting the vinegar, pour it in a spray bottle to make a vinegar spray to use on your shoes in eliminating the foot fungus.
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Take It Easy At First
Athletes foot can come on suddenly and be accompanied by oozing blisters and intermittent burning, says Frederick Hass, MD, a family medicine physician in San Rafael, California. When youre going through this acute stage, baby your foot. Keep it uncovered and at constant rest. Although the inflammation itself is not dangerous, it can lead to a bacterial infection if youre not careful.
Common Home Remedies For Fungal Toenails
With any home remedy, its important to continue treatment for at least two weeks after the infection appears to be gone. This helps ensure that all the fungus is killed and prevents reinfection. You should also avoid sharing towels, shoes, socks, or other personal items with someone who has a fungal infection. If you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation, see your doctor before using any home remedies for fungal infections.
Here are a few of the most common home remedies:
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Home Remedies For Athletes Foot
Tea Tree Oil:
Touted for their strong antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-fungal properties, the essential oil obtained from tea tree leaves has been treating skin infections since ancient times. The presence of tannic acid in the oil not only gets rid of bacteria and germs but also acts as an astringent and helps dry out sweaty feet to prevent the growth and spreading of the infection. Also Read: Tea Tree Oil: 5 Health Benefits of This Incredible Essential Oil
Mix a few drops of tea tree oil combined with a carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil and apply it on the affected area 2-4 times a day to thwart off the infection.
Baking Soda:
Being a natural anti-fungal agent, they provide relief from many microbial strains that infect the skin and nails. This mixture of sodium and bicarbonate ions not only helps in absorbing unpleasant foot odours but also relieves the itchiness and burning sensation in between the toes or on the feet.
Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply in all over the infected skin to get rid of the foot infection.
Sea Salt:
Imbued with potent anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, the sea salt granules provide an effective remedy for athletes foot. It also holds high significance in healing cuts and sores by reducing inflammation and prevents smelly foot.
Soak your feet in a tub containing warm water infused with sea salt for 5-10 minutes to assist healing and prevent the spreading of the infection.
Garlic:
Yogurt:
Foot Soak:
Green Tea:
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