Fungal nail infections are a common problem for people with diabetes and circulatory disorders, and in those over the age of 60 years, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Toenail fungus may begin as a small yellow or white spot beneath the top of your nail. As the fungus spreads into deeper layers of the nail, the nail may become discolored, thicken and crumble. Severe infections may be painful. Treatment is difficult and typically requires daily care for months or years.
Step 1
Soak the affected toe. Mix one part vinegar to two parts warm water, and soak the affected toe each night before bed. Leave the toe in the solution for 15 to 20 minutes, and then rinse well and pat dry. The Mayo Clinic recommends reducing the frequency of vinegar soaks if the skin on the affected foot becomes irritated.
Step 2
Apply an antifungal powder or spray. Use the spray or powder on your feet every time you get out of the shower. If you have sweaty feet or tend to spend a lot of time in damp locations, spray the insides of your shoes before putting them on each day.
Step 3
Keep your toenails trimmed. Trim your toenails as short as possible, but be very careful not to cut the skin near your toes. Doing so can increase the risk of skin infection. Use separate nail tools on infected toes, and sterilize nail clippers and files after every use with rubbing alcohol. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends bringing your own tools when having a professional manicure.
Step 4
Wash your hands. Every time you touch the affected toe, wash your hands. Nail fungus is contagious and you can potentially spread the infection from one toe to another, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 5
Do not wear nail polish on your toes. Nail polish traps moisture and prevents light from reaching your nail, both of which can worsen fungal infections of your nail.
Step 6
Apply an over-the-counter antifungal cream on your affected toenail. While these products may help clear up mild infections, they are not very effective at treating more severe cases, according to the Mayo Clinic. Undergoing a procedure called debridement may increase the effectiveness of topical medications. Debridement involves the filing away of the top layer of your nail so that the medication is able to penetrate more deeply.
Step 7
Use an antifungal lacquer on your toenail to kill your fungal infection. The Mayo Clinic states that application of these nail polishes may be effective at treating mild to moderate infections when used every day for one year.
Step 8
Take medication. Oral antifungal medication, such as terbinafine or itraconazole, can be taken if topical treatments fail to clear up your infection. Oral medications must be taken for at least six weeks, and it make take up to four months to completely kill toenail fungus. While these medications can cause significant side effects, including skin rashes and liver damage, they may be necessary for severe or recurrent infections and for those with diabetes or a history of cellulitis. MedlinePlus states that oral medications effectively clear toenail fungus in about half of patients.
Tips and Warnings
- The American Academy of Family Physicians states that topical treatments rarely kill toenail fungus when used alone.
Things You'll Need
- Vinegar
- Over-the-counter antifungal powder or spray
- Rubbing alcohol
- Over-the-counter antifungal cream
- antifungal lacquer
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