Choosing The Right Toenail Fungus Remedy

A tear or cut in the toenails and skin surrounding it are one of the favorite scenarios of a fungi to attack and spread causing toenail fungus. Unfortunately, many people neglect the importance of an immediate toenail fungus remedy as soon as they notice some symptoms and manifestations of a fungal infection and thereby making the condition more damaging and disfiguring. If you notice an abnormal painful walking or wearing of your shoes and a thickening of your nail, then don't think twice of asking help from your doctor. Toenail fungus remedy is there to suffice your needs and there are many of them. So now let us talk about what these remedies are.

Persistent toenail infections are prescribed with oral antifungal medications that are systemic in nature. Griseofulvin (Fulvicion), a toxic-like oral antifungal drug used in the past, was the only medication known for its efficacy as a toenail fungus remedy. Nowadays, other oral medications are widely used as a toenail fungus remedy. Drugs like Fluconazole (Diflucan), Terbinafine (Lamisil), and Itraconazole (Sporanox) are usually and normally taken for a period of 6 to 12 weeks.

However, this kind of toenail fungus remedy may affect the normal functioning of your liver and kidney. It might also cause severe skin rashes, headaches and stomach upset. Therefore, precaution and following your doctor's order is highly advised. Moreover, oral antifungal drugs are contraindicated for individuals having heart and liver diseases. Continues use of the medication is extremely important until newly grown healthy toenails are evident.

Antifungal creams are frequently used for mild to moderate toenail infections. Some antifungal creams may be purchased with or without a doctor's prescription. They are directly applied to the affected site. Thus, oral medications are usually taken in conjunction with antifungal creams.

For much localized toenail infections and those that are considered mild or moderate are treated with antifungal nail polish. An example of which is Ciclopirox. This is painted directly to the toenail fungus just like applying an ordinary nail polish and is applied daily for a week. The application is removed every week and will be replaced by new applications for another 7 days. The process may take a year for better results.

Vicks vapor rub, antiseptic mouthwash (Listerine) and tea tree oil are suggested as a toenail fungus remedy although no scientific studies are known to validate or support such claims yet. Topical solutions such as ZetaClear, Footspa Nail Drops and Fungisil are far better than household remedies. ZetaClear heads straight into the roots of the infected nails and not just the exposed surface with infection.

Now for severe cases and recurrent toenail fungal infections, the best treatment option considered is a surgical nail removal. So how does it work? The infected nail will be removed. Antifungal creams will then be applied over the area affected. And what's great about this option is that once the infected nail is removed, the infected area will be exposed which brings about a maximized effect of the antifungal cream.

Always remember that it is always wise consult a doctor and to identify the pros and cons of a toenail fungus remedy that you are planning to use.