15. Exercise
Regular exercise can expedite the healing process. As blood pumps faster through the body, it releases natural vitamins and flushes toxins. Just be sure to practice proper hygiene to avoid making toenail fungus worse. Wear socks that wick away moisture, use antifungal foot powder, remove shoes immediately after a workout to let feet breathe, and wear sandals in shower rooms or pools. Remember to wash your feet with antibacterial soap and completely dry your feet after your shower.
Over-the-counter toenail fungus treatment options
While home remedies can be the cure you are looking for to treat toenail fungus, they’re not regulated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Over-the-counter antifungal medication is available in the form of creams, sprays, and medicated nail polish. Home remedies can often enhance the efficacy of these products.
Vicks VapoRub
One of the more popular over-the-counter remedies for treating toenail fungus is Vicks VapoRub. Mentholated salves contain the natural ingredients menthol, eucalyptus oil, and camphor. Use Vicks alone or in conjunction with other treatments and medications. Clean feet first and then apply Vicks daily.
Listerine
Soaking an infected nail in Listerine can also help reduce or kill toenail fungus. Commonly used as a mouthwash, Listerine applied to the affected toe or toenail for 20 minutes twice a day can effectively reduce signs of onychomycosis.
Side effects of toenail fungus medication
One of the many benefits of using a homeopathic remedy is that there are little to no adverse side effects. Topical ointments often prescribed to treat toenail fungus can potentially burn or blister the skin. Oral medications for treating onychomycosis can cause liver or gastrointestinal damage. First, read the medication guide to find a list of potential side effects. Then, consult your pharmacist, physician, or specialist if you are still concerned about the side effects.
When to see a doctor about toenail fungus
If you are still experiencing stubborn toenail fungus, you may need to see a specialist. A dermatologist or podiatrist may be able to assess your symptoms and send a small sample of the affected toenail or flesh to a laboratory to be analyzed.
There are various types of fungi and yeasts that cause onychomycosis. Knowing the specific cause of your foot fungus can help identify what route to take to treat your condition.
Nail changes can also be caused by underlying conditions, like psoriasis and diabetes. As always, it’s important to seek professional medical advice if your condition persists or worsens. Bacterial and fungal infection of the skin in diabetes patients often results in hospital admissions and, in severe cases, can result in amputations.
