The identifying characteristics of a nail fungus include: a thickened nail which may be difficult to trim; cloudy white, or yellow appearance; the nail itself becomes brittle, crumbly, flaky, chipped, and rough; the nail can separate from the nail bed; white or black spots which you cannot clean off; may have an odor; and little pus pockets may accumulate around them. These symptoms are used to determine if a fungus is present. If it is left untreated it could spread to other nails and you could lose the entire nail. It is best to set up an appointment to confirm the infection and then follow a toenail fungus treatment.

Risk Factors

It is possible for anybody to get a fungal infection but certain conditions seem to increase the likelihood of if. These conditions include: increased age, extensive water exposure, male, poor cleaning habits, athletes foot, walking without shoes and socks in public locations, nail trauma, cuts and abrasions on or around toes, selecting shoes and socks which prevent moisture removal from the foot, diabetes, and diseases which decrease the working ability of the immune system. Try to prevent the conditions which you can control by doing things like wearing shoes and socks in public locations, especially public showers.

Treatment Options and Duration

After your doctor has confirmed that there is a fungal infection present you will be presented with a few treatments to choose from. A pill is most often prescribed for effective relief of the problem. You may also select a nail lacquer or tea tree oil if the infection is mild. It should be pointed out that a nail fungus is often stubborn and difficult to treat. It may take weeks to several months to eliminate the infection. You will need to be diligent on your course of action daily.

Treatment Options

There are a lot of choices regarding how to treat an infection. They include oral medications, antifungal varnishes, home remedies, or surgery. As already noted, these infections are difficult to eliminate and there is not a medication which eliminates all forms on every person. If one option does not provide results you may need to try another.

How to Choose

Antifungal lacquers are applied like a nail polish to the nail and surrounding skin. The built up layers are then removed with alcohol. Oral medications are prescribed when swelling, diabetes, or other pain and discomfort is present. Home remedies may or may not be effective depending on the correct use and validity of the product. Vicks Vaporub, tea tree oil, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and Listerine are some of the products which allegedly work against the infection. When there is a severe amount of pain involved surgical removal of the nail and its plate may be used.

You have a selection of toenail fungus treatment choices available. It is best to prevent your toes from ever getting the infection if possible. Ensure that your feet receive special attention through cleaning and selecting breathable footwear to prevent infection. Should you see signs of a fungal infection take care to set up an appointment with your doctor to get it taken care of.

Marie is a foot health expert devoted to treatment of toe fungus.