{"id":706,"date":"2023-11-22T09:11:36","date_gmt":"2023-11-22T09:11:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sbrma.org\/?p=706"},"modified":"2024-04-17T23:47:57","modified_gmt":"2024-04-17T23:47:57","slug":"take-control-of-fungal-nail-treatment-and-prevention-for-healthy-nails","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sbrma.org\/take-control-of-fungal-nail-treatment-and-prevention-for-healthy-nails\/","title":{"rendered":"Take Control of Fungal Nail Treatment and Prevention for Healthy Nails"},"content":{"rendered":"
Fungal nails (onychomycosis) are usually caused by microscopic fungi that enter through cracks in the nail or the surrounding skin. These infections are most common in the toenails but can also affect fingernails.<\/p>\n
Fungi often cause severe nail infections that are hard to cure. Treatment options include antifungal tablets and medication that you apply to the nail or skin.<\/p>\n
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Despite their unsightly appearance, fungal nail infections are typically painless. But they can cause discomfort in some cases and are often contagious. Board-certified dermatologists offer preventive measures that can help keep your nails healthy and free of infection.<\/p>\n
Fungi are naturally found in the world around us. They enter the nail through small cracks and grow in a person\u2019s nails, causing an infection. Usually, the infection spreads from one person to another in damp areas like public showers, locker rooms, spas and pools. It can also be passed along when people wear the same footwear or socks. To avoid picking up an infection, it’s best to not share shoes, nail clippers, or other personal items. Wash your feet every day, making sure to wash and dry them carefully. Wear shoes that fit well and allow room for your toes. If possible, wear flip flops when walking in warm, moist areas.<\/p>\n
A nail fungus is more common in older adults, due to slower-growing nails and reduced blood circulation in the feet and toes. Diabetes and other conditions that impair the body\u2019s natural function of regulating temperature and blood circulation can also increase the risk for a fungal nail infection. In addition, repetitive trauma to the nail plate (such as stubbing your toe) can damage the surface and let fungus in.<\/p>\n
Many people with fungal nail infections have tried over-the-counter antifungal creams and ointments, but these treatments are often not strong enough to cure the infection. These treatments also don\u2019t prevent a fungal nail infection from returning, so it is important to use them for as long as your doctor recommends.<\/p>\n
If over-the-counter antifungal treatments don\u2019t work, your doctor might try another medication that you take orally, such as terbinafine (Lamisil(r)), itraconazole (Sporanox(r)), or fluconazole (Diflucan(r)). These medications aren\u2019t safe for everyone and can affect the liver, so you may need blood tests every month to check how well they are working.<\/p>\n
In some cases, a dermatologist can prescribe medicine that you apply directly to your nails. These medications typically have a higher cure rate than oral medicines, but they can be more difficult to use. You will need to apply the nail medicine regularly and correctly, usually twice a day, for six to 12 months.<\/p>\n
One option is tavaborole 5% solution, which was shown to be effective in two phase III randomized controlled trials that each lasted 48 weeks. This topical treatment works by penetrating the nail plate and blocking the formation of new fungus cells, according to research published in 2015. Other prescription options include Penlac (ciclopirox), which is available as a brush-on lacquer. This medication has a complete cure rate of about 8.5% in patients with mild to moderate onychomycosis.<\/p>\n