New Topical Treatment For Toenail Fungus

Laser Treatment Vs Other Treatments

Oral medications and topical antifungal creams are the most common options for treating toenail fungus. Your doctor may prescribe a combination of both topical and oral medications based on your condition. However, both medications have a limited success rate and take more time to show results, taking more than a year to work. Additionally, you may become impatient and uncompliant if your treatment takes longer than expected. If you are not responding to these treatments, your doctor may recommend laser toenail fungus therapy.

Podiatrists prefer laser treatments since they are effective and a safer alternative to oral medications that act slower and have undesirable side effects. Most people also forget to take oral medication or apply it to the affected area regularly, delaying healing. Laser therapy revitalizes your nails naturally to grow healthier and clean. Your doctor may recommend combining topical medication with primary laser treatment for the best results. Topical medications have minimal side effects compared to oral medications. Laser treatment is applied to the fungal infection by shining laser light through your toenail to vaporize the fungus without harming the surrounding tissues. Before treatment, removing any decorations on your nails and nail polish is essential.

Thing To Know About Fungal Nails

Many changes in fingernails or toenails may cause people to think they have a fungal infection of the nails, medically known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium.

Fungal infection of the nails sometimes makes the condition sound contagious or related to poor hygiene. In fact, up to 10% of all adults in Western countries have a fungal infection of the nails. This percentage increases to 20% of adults who are age 60 or older. Toenail fungus is much more common than fingernail fungus.

In reality, abnormal-looking nails may be caused by a number of conditions including, but not limited to, a fungal infection. There are many other reasons why your nails may look different.

Fda Approves New Nail Fungus Treatment Jublia

posted: Jan. 30, 2015.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration have approved a new nail fungus treatment called Jublia, and is the first treatment that can be applied directly to the nail. Jublia is a topical treatment specifically for people with the condition onychomycosis, which is a nail infection caused by a fungus that typically occurs under toenails. Made by Canadian company Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Inc., Jublia comes in a liquid form and is applied directly to the nail. The pharmaceutical company states that the treatments FDA approval was based on two studies involving over 1,600 people with onychomycosis. In one study cure rates were about 18 percent for patients, whereas rates were about 15 percent in the other study.

While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, it is not impossible. For more information about treatment, consult with Dr. Andrew H. Cohen, D.P.M. of the Mid-Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Cohen will attend to all of your podiatric needs.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.

Antibiotics & Treatments

Talcum powder applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Alternative Treatments

For more information about Toenail Fungus, follow the link below.

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Curing Toenail Fungus With Prescription Drugs

Thanks to the advancements of modern medicine, curing toenail fungus with antifungal prescription medicines has become quite regular. As this is an infection that can spread easily, both throughout a persons nails and through a populous, treating it has become of higher concern than it used to be.

What does an infected toenail look like?

The first and most common symptom to develop is a whitish or yellowish spot on your nail. Gradually this will cover your entire nail and you may eventually develop dark yellow and brown spots on the nail. Your nail will become thick and brittle as the fungus burrows deep into and underneath the nail on its quest to spread.

Infection occurs when people are exposed to the spores of the fungus. This can happen if you wander around barefoot, especially in areas that are particularly dirty, if your shoes are dirty or excessively damaged, and if you have particularly sweaty feet as heat and humidity are two key ingredients to a successful fungus growing environment.

Nails can become discolored due to trauma at the nail site, rubbing of the nail from the shoe and even if you have psoriasis. It is best to consult your doctor to determine what is causing the discoloration so that you can work together to come up with the best treatment.

Topical Medications

Penlac has been known to cause skin irritation and itching where it has been applied.

Oral Antifungal Medications

Toenail Fungus Treatment Complications

Here are some things to think about when deciding on a nail fungus treatment.

If you have a disease like diabetes, your doctor will make sure you treat nail fungus. This illness often makes you more likely to have other problems from minor foot issues.

You may not be able to take antifungal pills because of side effects or because they donât work well with other drugs you take. If that’s the case, try a product that goes onto your nail. Your doctor will call this a topical treatment.

Be patient. Your nails may not look “normal” after treatment. It can take as long as a year to 18 months for your nail to grow out a fungus.

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What Is The Most Effective Treatment For Toenail Fungus

The most effective toenail fungus treatment for you will largely depend on your symptoms and situation. Your provider will consider several factors before recommending a treatment plan thats customized to you.

Overall, oral antifungal medications may offer the most treatment potential. Pairing oral drugs with topical antifungal medication may make treatment more effective.

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How Should I Use Ciclopirox Topical

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Wash your hands before and after using this medication, unless you are using ciclopirox to treat a hand condition.

To apply the cream, gel, or lotion:

• Clean and dry the affected area. Apply a small amount of the cream for 2 to 4 weeks. Follow your doctorâs instructions.

• Do not use bandages or dressings that do not allow air to circulate on areas treated with ciclopirox cream or lotion, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Wear loose-fitting clothing .

• If the infection does not clear up in 4 weeks, or if it appears to get worse, see your doctor.

To use ciclopirox shampoo:

• Wet the hair and apply approximately 1 teaspoon of the shampoo to the scalp. Up to 2 teaspoons may be used for long hair. Lather and leave on the hair and scalp for 3 minutes. A timer may be used.

• Treatment should be repeated twice per week for 4 weeks, with a minimum of 3 days between applications. If no improvement is seen after 4 weeks of treatment, contact your doctor.

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How Is Toenail Fungus Diagnosed

Nearly 3 million people in the United States are diagnosed with toenail fungus each year. Men are up to three times more likely to develop toenail fungus than women. You are also at a higher risk for a toenail fungus infection if you smoke or have diabetes. Also, individuals with compromised immune systems may experience toenail fungus that can turn into an infection.

When feet remain moist or damp, the fungus can grow, causing discoloration and thickening of toenails. Infection can cause discomfort and pain. The spread of fungus and infection can go from toe to toe, hand, fingernails, or skin on other parts of the body.

The toenail may become warped, cracked, or loosen itself away from the nail bed. Often the nail appears yellowish and may have white spots. Your doctor will examine your feet and potentially take a small sample of skin or nail to be sent off to a laboratory for testing. Your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist, podiatrist, or other healthcare professional if your condition is unusual or needs special care. Other foot conditions such as psoriasis can look similar to a fungal infection. Lab reports can indicate if the problem is fungal, helping the doctor prescribe the best medication for effective treatment.

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Fingernail Fungus Caused By Acrylic Nails

Fungal infections on fingernails are a common complication of acrylic nails. The infection usually begins if moisture is trapped in the layers between the natural nail and the acrylic nail. This will cause the perfect environment for fungus to enter, grow, and multiply. Fungal infections in fingernails caused by acrylic nails are more common when nails are left on for 3 months or longer. At this time the acrylic nails may start lifting, leaving openings for fungus to invade. Fingernail fungus may also occur if nails are reglued before the gap between the natural and the artificial nail has been cleaned thoroughly.

Is It Possible To Prevent The Recurrence Of Nail Fungus

Tinea pedis, also known as athleteâs foot or foot fungus, can cause the recurrence of fungal nails. Therefore, it is important to manage this condition. One can apply over-the-counter antifungal medicines such as clotrimazole or terbinafine cream as directed to the affected skin. Keeping footwear and socks clean can be helpful. You can also use portable UV light sanitizers to disinfect shoes.

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New York City Laser Toenail Fungus Therapy

Laser treatment is the most effective way to treat toenail fungus. Often in as little as one treatment, patients will see clear, beautiful nails begin to appear. Toenails grow slowly. It will normally take six to nine months to observe the full results of the treatment.

Laser Nail Therapy offers in-house financing for our patients. You will not have to pay the full treatment cost all at once. Ask our staff for more information if youd like to take advantage of our payment plan program.

At Laser Nail Therapy in New York, our doctors use the PinPointe FootLaser to treat toenail fungus. The laser targets kill a full range of the microorganisms that cause toenail fungus. Laser treatment for toenail fungus poses no risk, as there are no side effects. The entire procedure is painless. It also has no recovery time. Patients report a slight warming sensation in the area that is targeted by the laser treatment at the time of the procedure. All healthy tissues remain unharmed, allowing them to return to normal activity as soon as the procedure is complete.

New Treatment Options Available For Nail Fungus

The most recent advances in the field of nail fungus treatment are two new, FDA-approved topical medications: efinoconazole and tavaboruk.

These antifungal medications come in the form of a liquid solution that is applied to the infected toenails. They offer tremendous hope for a nail fungus cure to those who have not been able to tolerate previous treatment options. Our doctors have already begun dispensing these medications and the preliminary results are promising.

Another high-tech treatment for nail fungus is the use of a special laser.

Another high-tech treatment for nail fungus is the use of the special laser. There are several laser machines available for nail fungus treatment. At Sol Foot & Ankle Centers our doctors prefer the PinPointe Footlaser. This is the only machine specifically designed to treat toenails, is FDA-approved, and has scientific studies to back-up its results.

Laser treatment packages are available at a range of prices depending on the severity of your condition and the number of toenails involved. In addition, you may benefit even greater from a combination of laser treatment with Jublia or Kerydin.

Other Options For Treating Nail Fungus

Besides the new treatments stated above, there is still the option of treating your nail fungus with oral medication. The most effective oral medication is terbinafine , which is now available as a generic and relatively inexpensive.

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What Is The Best Medication For Toenail Fungus

Below is a list of the most recommended prescription treatment for toenail fungus.

Dosage is determined by your doctor based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and age. Other possible side effects exist. This is not a complete list. A very rare side effect can be trouble breathing if this occurs, seek immediate emergency medical attention.

Related Resources For Toenail Fungus

* Prescription savings vary by prescription and by pharmacy, and may reach up to 80% off cash price.

Pharmacy names, logos, brands, and other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

This article is not medical advice. It is intended for general informational purposes and is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your physician or dial 911.

Read Also: How To Fix Fungus In Toenails

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.

Check Your Nails To Find Early Signs Of Infection

Following these precautions will reduce your risk of getting another infection. Fungal infection, however, are very common. You can get another one. Early treatment delivers the best outcome.

You can find signs of an early fungal infection by checking your nails and the skin around them at least once a month. You want to look for:

• Changes in nail color, such as a white spot or brown or yellow streak

• Changes to the texture of your nails

• Soreness or swelling around a nail

• Dry, itchy skin

If you notice any signs of infection, make an appointment to see your dermatologist.

ImageGetty Images

ReferenceGold LFS and Rosen T. Onychomycosis: Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. Dermatology News . March 2016:2-15.

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Mayo Clinic Q And A: Treatment For Toenail Fungus Isnt Always Necessary

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I am in my late 50s, and a few of my toenails have turned a yellowish color and seem to have thickened. Is this something I should be concerned about? Is there anything I can do to fix this?

ANSWER: What youre likely experiencing is a fungal nail infection. Fungal nail infections are common, especially among older adults. As nail growth slows with age, its easier for fungus to establish in the nail bed. Treatments are available, although they may take some vigilance and are not always necessary.

Toenail fungus usually is caused by a microscopic organism called dermatophyte fungus. It often begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your toenail. But as the infection goes deeper, nail fungus may cause your nail to discolor, thicken and crumble at the edge. These fungal infections are more likely to happen in your toenails than in your fingernails because toenails often are confined in a dark, warm, moist environment, where fungi can thrive. Toes also have less blood flow than fingers, making it harder for your bodys immune system to detect and stop the infection. But it is possible for fingernails to be affected.

The older you are, the more likely you are to get toenailfungus. Thats because as you age, your immune system changes. Inaddition, your nails become more brittle and drier over time, creating morecracks where fungus can live.

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