The medical name for nail fungus infection is called onychomycosis. This condition is very common and is usually nothing to be too concerned about, but it’s always best to treat the infection when you notice it. Onychomycosis can be picked up in a number of ways, including walking barefoot in damp areas such as gyms and changing rooms, and there are a few risk factors involved too. If you have a minor cut near your toenail, this makes you more susceptible to a fungal nail infection.
In this article, we will be discussing various treatment options for onychomycosis. These treatments include diode laser treatment, nail softening creams, and antifungal nail creams.
But first, let’s talk more about nail fungus infections and what you can do to prevent them from happening.
Prevention
Nail fungus infections happen when you come into contact with fungi. Since fungi thrive in warm damp areas, this is where you’re most likely to pick up an infection. So avoiding walking barefoot in damp places such as swimming pool areas, changing room floors and so on, is an effective way in preventing onychomycosis.
Wearing breathable socks and shoes is also important. Cotton is the recommended material for socks in this case.
Treatment Options for Toenail Fungal Infection
Here are the best and most effective treatments that are recommended for onychomycosis. These treatments are painless and safe. They each have their own pros and cons which we will dive into.
Nail softening cream
This cream is applied to the infected nail in order to soften the area up. When the area is softened, the fungal infection can then be easily scraped off, resolving the issue. This cream is typically used for around two weeks, making it a pretty quick treatment choice.
Antifungal nail cream
This treatment option takes a long time to cure the infection. Once you begin the process it usually takes 12 months to complete. This is a big drawback as it’s the longest treatment option, and it isn’t always successful. When they do work though, they are an effective option.
Laser treatment
Did you know that laser therapy is an effective treatment for nail fungus infections? Some skincare clinics offer this service to eliminate the infection and improve the appearance of the infected nail.
How laser treatment works for onychomycosis is that a professional will use a diode laser to destroy the fungi, effectively ridding the nail of the infection and allowing the nail to grow back healthy. This is a safe, effective, and easy option for those with these kinds of fungal infections.
However, the main drawback with laser treatment is that it can be rather expensive. This is because the service isn’t offered on the NHS, so you would have to visit a clinic. Many people find laser therapy worth it though, as it’s a quick and effective method at removing toenail fungus.
We hope you found this article useful. If you’re worried about a fungal infection please visit a healthcare professional.