Treating fungal nails can be tricky. For less severe cases of nail fungus, many people advocate topical or oral treatments, while more advanced cases may require aggressive procedures to improve the condition. Home remedies may be helpful for minor infections, but the Best Foot Doctor can help for moderate or severe cases. Contacting a podiatrist as soon as possible helps prevent worsening of fungus and other potentially dangerous conditions.
This article will cover several ways home remedies can help treat fungal nails effectively. However, before we cover possible home remedies for nail fungus relief, do you know what a fungal nail is?
What Is a Fungal Nail?
Fungal nails, also called toenail fungus, often result from an infection, usually athlete’s foot, between the toes of the feet. If left untreated, the fungus that causes athlete’s foot can spread to the toenails and cause an infection.
Fungal nails usually appear as white or yellowish spots underneath a toenail. If the case is mild, it generally will remain at this stage. This stage is when home remedies may help reduce the infection and prevent further decay.
However, if the fungus progresses to a more severe stage, the condition can cause toenails to thicken, become discolored, and crumble at the edges. You may consider using the list of treatments below to prevent the toenail fungus from spreading further. If the infection progresses, it is best to see a foot doctor as soon as possible. Watch Dr. E, a top NYC podiatrist at Best Foot Doctor NY, explain the treatments for fungal infections and bacterial infections.
Your doctor will evaluate the situation and advise a treatment plan based on the type of fungus and the severity of the infection. Reinfection after treatment is always a risk that you and your doctor must consider. Many toenails that recover from nail fungus remain affected even after treatment, as the infection can cause permanent damage.
If you are considering an at-home remedy for minor nail fungus, we have a few suggestions. Some topical treatments include the following:
Menthol Ointment (Vicks VapoRub)
For minor infections, a menthol ointment, such as Vicks VapoRub, may prove effective. Products like Vicks are helpful because the menthol they contain has strong antifungal properties, alleviating the effects of fungus on the affected toenail. Camphor and eucalyptus oil are other active ingredients that can help fight fungal infections.
Snakeroot Extract
Another topical treatment you can try is snakeroot extract. Like an essential oil, this extract is obtained from the plant’s oil in the sunflower family. A 2008 study found that snakeroot extract was as effective as prescription antifungal medication. In the study, participants applied the extract to the affected toenail several times a day for three weeks.
Treating Fungal Nails With Tea Tree Oil
The popular tea tree essential oil is known for its antiseptic and antifungal abilities. Studies by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health have found that tea tree oil can help effectively treat toenail fungal infections and improve conditions.
Olive Leaf Extract
If you’re fighting a toenail fungal infection, you can try olive leaf extract. The active substance in olive leaf, oleuropein, contains antimicrobial and antifungal properties. This extract also has the potential to boost a weakened immune system, further enhancing its infection-fighting attributes. Olive leaf extract can be taken in a capsule or applied directly to the infected nail.
PinPointe Laser Treatment
While not an at-home remedy, PinPointe Laser Treatment has been proven effective for advanced toenail fungus. For stubborn cases, this non-invasive laser treatment can be performed in-office by a licensed dermatologist. The laser nail treatment targets the microorganisms living underneath the toenail and burns them off. Patients report slight discomfort, if any, during the actual laser sessions.
The home remedies discussed here may be helpful for individuals with mild cases of toenail fungus. However, for patients with diabetes or other health conditions that weaken the immune system, it is best to consult a doctor for treatment of fungal nails. The Best Foot Doctor is proud to offer high-quality treatment with minimal risk. If you are concerned about toenail fungus and would like to speak to a healthcare professional, please contact us to schedule an appointment.