Fungal nail infections occur more often on the toes than hands. Initial signs of an infection, also known as onychomycosis, include white spots on the nail bed, cracked or brittle nails and discoloration. According to MayoClinic.com, fungal infections are difficult to treat and recurring infections are common. Adults, rather than children, most often suffer from fungal nail infections. Infections are caused by injuries to the nail, moist environments, tight fitting shoes, or not wearing shoes in public areas such as locker rooms, reports the Cleveland Clinic. Treatment of fungal infections depends on the severity of the condition. Patients suffering from diabetes or immune system disorders are at high risk of complications from fungal nail infections and should immediately seek professional medical care.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Both MayoClinic.com and MedlinePlus do not recommend over-the-counter medications to treat fungal nail infections, and state that prescription medications, both topical and oral, offer better treatment than OTC medications. Still, some minor fungal infections may benefit from these medications.
Prescription Oral Medications
According to MayoClinic.com the most effective oral medications prescribed for nail infections are terbinafine and itraconazole. Oral medications must be consumed for about six to 12 weeks, and an infection free nail will not appear until new growth develops. Drugs.com states that oral fungal medications clear 50 percent of nail infections, but that some medications have side effects affecting the liver.
Prescription Solutions
Ciclopirox, an antifungal lacquer, may be prescribed to patients suffering from mild infections. The solution is applied to the affected nail and surrounding skin, similar to nail polish. After seven days, a person uses alcohol to remove the layers of lacquer. Treatment may be required up to a year, reports MayoClinic.com. Medical professionals may suggest additional topical medications to lessen the severity of symptoms associated with the nail infection. Commonly, topical and oral medications are prescribed together for the optimal outcome.
Nail Removal
Severe nail fungal infections require complete removal of the nail; however, this treatment option remains rare. The entire nail or just a partial section of the nail may be removed. After removal, antifungal creams are applied to inhibit fungal growth. Because nail growth is a slow process, a new nail may take up to a year to grow back, reports MedlinePlus.
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