Treatment for Toe Nail Fungus Infection

My toe nail fungus is causing the nail to partially separate and I believe it will eventually fall off. Can I use some of the over-the-counter medications on the exposed skin after it falls off.
(11 Sep 2009)

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Nail fungus infections are an extremely common type of infection and in fact belong to the category called dermatophytes. This group of fungi is also responsible for a variety of other infections such as jock itch, athlete’s foot and ringworm. In almost all cases, prompt treatment with the right medications can significantly lessen the duration of the infection and save the toenail.

Neglect and delaying treatment on the other hand can cost you the nail. Treatment with ineffective home remedies or simply delaying treatment can prove more expensive as the nail may not only be lost permananently but the infection could also spread.

A nail infection is medically referred to as onychomycosis and is a lot more common in the toe nail as compared to finger nails, because of the nature of fungi and because of the condition of the feet.

Fungi, as you might know, thrive in moist and warm environments, as would be the case with your feet. Damp and sweaty shoes and socks offer the ideal breeding grounds for fungi. Poor hygiene, sharing footwear, walking bare footed and other such factors could lead to an infection and could also spread the infection. For this reason it is of the utmost importance that you maintain the highest levels of hygiene. Following preventive measures after being infected may seem baffling, but it is important not only for the purpose of preventing spreading the infection, but also to avoid re-infection.

You haven’t mentioned following any treatment so far, and from the conditions you describe the infection has been present for quite a while. Failing to get a doctor examine the nail and treat it or treat it yourself can prove to be expensive. Negligence and carelessness only delay healing and also cause the infection to become a lot more resistant. Most home remedies are ineffective against nail infections, but over the counter medications are effective enough. For this reason it is important that treatment is begun promptly and diligently instead of resorting to ineffective home remedies. Keep in mind that toenail infections are a lot harder to treat than any other fungal infection. Sometimes it may take up to a year for the nail to heal.

Self care practices are vital to the success of any treatment, so make sure that in addition to the use of over the counter treatments you also follow the strictest personal hygiene. Ensure that your feet are always clean and dry and dust on some anti fungal powders before donning any footwear.

answered by S D on 11 Sep 2009, 2:15:46

Treatment for Toe Nail Fungus Infection

My toe nail fungus is causing the nail to partially separate and I believe it will eventually fall off. Can I use some of the over-the-counter medications on the exposed skin after it falls off. (11 Sep 2009)

My toe nail fungus is causing the nail to partially separate and I believe it will eventually fall off. Can I use some of the over-the-counter medications on the exposed skin after it falls off.
(11 Sep 2009)