If you have toenail fungus, you probably want to know about the top 10 toenail fungus treatment options. These options run the gamut from home remedies to surgery. In most cases, it’s a good idea to see a professional to properly diagnose the problem and to recommend a treatment plan.
Vinegar
There is anecdotal evidence that soaking your feet in vinegar treats toenail fungus. You soak your feet in one part vinegar and two parts warm water for 15 to 20 minutes daily. Then dry your feet.
Herbs
According to Livesrong.com, there are a few herbs that are purported to treat toenail fungus. These herbs include tea tree oil, clove oil and garlic.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Antifungal Medications
Your neighborhood drugstore has many OTC medications to treat toenail fungus. Most of these products are creams and ointments. However, OTC medications may not be as effective as laser therapy.
Vicks VapoRub
There is also anecdotal evidence that using Vicks VapoRub on your infected toenails is also an effective home remedy. There is no consensus on how to use this product.
Prescription Creams and Ointments
Your doctor can prescribe antifungal creams, lotions, and ointments that are more effective than OTC drugs. These topical medications can help, but usually don’t cure the fungal infection fast enough. This is often why these topical medications are used in conjunction with other forms of treatment.
Filing the Nail
In some cases, a doctor will file down the surface of the toenail. This reduces the amount of infected toenail you have and makes the fungus easier to treat.
Antifungal Nail Polish
A treatment for mild toenail fungus is an antifungal nail polish. Apply it to the infected toenail and the skin surrounding the nail once a day. After a week, remove the antifungal nail polish with rubbing alcohol and start the process all over again.
Oral Medications
Your doctor might prescribe oil medications to treat your toenail fungus, especially if you have pain, diabetes or other serious health concerns. The two main drugs prescribe are terbinafine (brand name Lamisil) and itraconazole (brand name Sporanox).
Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus
The latest and best treatment for toenail fungus is laser therapy. Using a beam of light to treat the toenail fungus is very effective, but this method of treatment is not readily available yet. For a clinic that does offer laser therapy, visit http://www.cleartoesclinic.com/’
Surgery
As a last resort, your doctor may suggest surgery if you toenail fungus is severe and doesn’t respond to other forms of treatment. The doctor removes your toenail during the surgery, but your nail grows back, although it could take a year.
Toenail fungus infections are a common problem. Fortunately, whether you have a mild or severe case of disease, you can take advantage of the many toenail fungus treatment options available.
