Solutions for Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is common and contagious but isn’t easy to get rid of. Because fungal infections of the toenails can be so pervasive, you’ve got to take a sensible approach to find a treatment solution that works.
What causes toenail fungus?
Fungi are everywhere, including in the air and on human skin. They can infect the skin, nails, mouth, fingernails, toes, and toenails. You’ve no doubt heard of athlete’s foot – a type of fungal infection characterized by scaly, red, itchy skin. Athlete’s foot can spread easily to your nails. Once the fungus takes root in your toenails, it can be quite stubborn.
Solution #1
There are many “folk remedies” purported to cure cracked, thickened, ridged, or yellowed toenails (and those are only some of the effects of a fungal nail infection). These so-called natural remedies include vinegar, garlic, and various oils, such as tea tree, eucalyptus, and oregano. Topical treatments such as these won’t hurt and will probably provide temporary relief. But there aren’t any convincing studies to show that they eliminate the root cause of toenail fungus.
Solution #2
Over-the-counter remedies are numerous and include topical creams, powders, gels, and sprays. You may have better luck with these readily available treatments. Sometimes, however, the infection clears up only to return a short time later. Other times, the cream or gel you choose won’t be effective against the particular type of fungus that you’ve contracted.
Solution #3
When you’re ready to finally eradicate your unsightly, brittle, and crumbling toenails for good, visit our experienced podiatric surgeons. Dr. Craig B. Frey, Dr. Megan L. Oltmann, and Dr. Jim Swienconek. We can identify the fungus and choose the best prescription-strength medication to attack your infection head-on. Severe infections may require debridement (cleaning out the damaged portions of the nail) or even permanent removal of the nail.
For optimal, personalized treatment of your fungal nails, call Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland in Solon, Ohio at (440) 903-1041 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. We offer a modern office with the latest technology for podiatric patients in Portage, Geauga, Cuyahoga, and Summit Counties, proudly serving our patients from Solon, Aurora, Bedford, Chagrin Falls, Hudson, Macedonia, and Twinsburg.
