Medications that fight fungi can cure up to 60 percent of fungal nail infections, but they take a long time to work. If you’re suffering from a severe infection, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the nail. A new nail will grow in its place. In the meantime, you can try to treat fungal nail infection symptoms yourself with prescription medicine or a special cream. You can also try laser therapy or photodynamic therapy.
If you’re unable to cure the infection on your own, a doctor can prescribe an oral antifungal drug. These drugs, like itraconazole (Sporanox), work better than topical treatments. These drugs will clear the infection and help the new nail grow back. You’ll have to take these tablets for several months, but you’ll have better results than you would with other methods. Some side effects of antifungal tablets include nausea, loss of taste, and headache.
Some people choose to use antifungal nail polish for fungal nail infection treatment. These products contain an ingredient called amorolfine, which kills the fungi that cause the infection. These products also make the environment around the nail less friendly for the fungi that live in it. In this way, they’re a good option for people with mild infections.
When you’re dealing with a fungal nail infection, you’ll probably notice that your nails are thickened and have a yellowish or white spot under them. Eventually, the nail may even become discoloured and crumble or split. The infection is usually not painful, but it can cause pain if it gets ingrown. If left untreated, a fungal toenail can lead to serious complications, especially if you’re suffering from diabetes.
