Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, affects nearly 12 percent of all Americans, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Onychomycosis is often an inherited condition and is rare in children. It is more likely to occur in toenails than fingernails since toes spend time in dark, moist places such as shoes, according to MayoClinic.com. Although toenail fungus can be difficult to treat, and recurrent episodes can occur, your doctor can prescribe a treatment and prevention plan to eliminate toenail fungus and keep it from coming back.
Step 1
Learn the symptoms of nail fungus and inspect your toenails regularly. The first sign of nail fungus might include white or yellow spots under the nail. If you see spots, or if your nails look brittle, distorted in shape, have a foul odor, or are starting to separate from the nail bed, you should contact your doctor immediately, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 2
Reduce toenail moisture. Dry your feet completely after showering and limit the amount of time spent wearing closed-in footwear. Wear moisture-wicking socks and change them often. A warm, moist environment will encourage nail fungus to grow.
Step 3
Prevent contamination. Avoid going barefoot in public places such as locker rooms and showers. Choose reputable nail salons that utilize proper instrument sterilization and keep nails clean and short. Also, practice good hand washing technique to avoid the spread of fungus from nail to nail.
Step 4
Avoid disguising your nails. As unsightly as nails might look while infected, the use of nail polish can cause the nails to retain moisture. This will only make the infection worse, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 5
Talk to your doctor about treatment. Your doctor may prescribe oral medication, such as terbinafine or itraconazole, topical treatment, such as an antifungal nail lacquer, or in some cases even surgery to remove the infected nail. Treatment depends on the severity of the fungal infection, according to MayoClinc.com.
Tips and Warnings
- Take your own nail polish with you to the nail salon in order to avoid fungal contamination. Use your hair dryer to dry your toenails after a shower.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you see signs or symptoms of nail fungus.
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