When fungi infects a person's toenails, it is known medically as onychomycosis. According to Foot.com, the condition affects nearly half of all Americans before the age of 70. The condition's prevalence increases with age, and is rare in children. The condition may be hereditary, but does not affect everyone in a family. Symptoms begin with a small white or yellow mark on the nail. The fungal infection continues to spread under the toenail, causing discoloration, deterioration and thickening of the nail. While MayoClinic.com recommends prescription medication as the most effective treatment, there are non-prescription and over-the-counter nail fungi medications available.
Over-the-counter Medications
Creams, lotions and spray may be purchased at local pharmacies and drugstores to treat toenail fungus without a prescription. Look for key ingredients such as clotrimazole, miconazole and terbinafine. The medications are typically brushed onto the nail bed and surrounding skin, however, the medication does not penetrate the nail bed and only treats the surface of the nail. Fungus growing deep in the nail bed may require stronger medications.
Vinegar Soaks
According to MayoClinic, soaking feet in vinegar is a common home remedy to treat toenail fungus. The clinic reports no conclusive evidence or scientific studies exist showing a decrease in the condition; however, the soaks may decrease bacterial growth. People should soak their feet in 1 part vinegar and 2 parts water, using a foot basin, for about 20 minutes. Daily treatment is recommended unless foot irritation is visible. If irritated, decrease soaks to two to three times per week.
Surgery
Severe or painful toenail fungus infections may require surgery. This treatment option is rare, and only necessary in the most severe cases. Complete removal of the infected nail occurs. A new nail will grow back; however, growth is slow. According to MayoClinic.com, re-growth may take up to a year.
Prevention
Toenail fungus re-infections are common and prevention efforts are critical to keep toenails healthy and fungus free. Keeping nails short and clean is ideal, recommends MayoClinic.com. People should change socks often to decrease moisture and sweat buildup. Applying antifungal powder or spray to shoes and feet inhibits re-infection. When visiting gyms, locker rooms and other public areas, people should wear flip flops or other shoes; walking barefoot attracts fungus and other bacteria. After touching an infected nail, people should always wash their hands with soap and water to avoid contaminating other nails.
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