Onychomycosis(toenail fungus) is a problem that affects millions of people worldwide.
Onychomycosis can be mild, causing only cosmetic concerns.
Onychomycosis is notoriously difficult to treat, mostly because the fungus resides throughout the nail, including thenail bed.
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Moreover, the structure of the nail is not easily penetrated by topical medications.
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This can help identify the most effectivetreatments.
The diagnosis typically involves a nail clipping or abiopsyof the nail and nail bed.
One of the main reasons why nail treatments fail is treating a bacterial nail infection as a fungal one.
Prescription Antifungals
One of the more frequently prescribed topical antifungals is Penlac (ciclopirox).
This is a brush-on lacquer applied to the nail, usually over the course of months.
It is less effective in controlling drug-resistant fungal strains.
Children tend to respond to topical nail treatments better than adults because their nails are thinner and more porous.
This helps ensure that the urea penetrates the nail and doesnt rub off.
An extra-strength 45% formulation (marketed under the brand name Uramaxin GT) costs around $250.
The cost of generic Lamisil cream is around $12 for a 0.46-ounce tube.
Home Remedies
Severalhome remedieshave been popularized as nail fungus cures.
These include tea tree oil, coconut oil, and Vicks VapoRub.
Each has antifungal properties and an oily texture, which promotes easy absorption.
Around 50% of the tea tree oil users reported improvement, although the rate of recurrence was high.
Whether it can do the same with an especially hearty fungus such asTrichophyton rubrumis doubtful.
Vicks VapoRub
A small study involving Vicks VapoRub showed promising results in people with onychomycosis.
A 2016 study echoed these results in people with HIV.
However, the results were typically short-lived, with most experiencing recurrence within a year.
Keep in mind that home remedies lack rigorous testing.
Further trials are needed before any can be recommended.
Summary
Onychomycosis is a fungal nail infection.
The infection is notoriously difficult to treat and typically requires a podiatrist to go for the best treatment options.
Topical medicines are one such option, particularly if you are averse to pills.
However, topicals are not the best modality of treatment for onychomycosis.
coconut oil, and Vicks VapoRub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lamisil (terbinafine) is an oral drug taken by mouth.
In some cases, laser treatments can completely cure toenail fungus.
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