How do I Manage a Nail Infection?

Nail infections often result from fungus; signs of an infection include dark, yellow, brittle nails on the toes or fingers. Because nail infections can spread to surrounding nails and skin, it's imperative to stop the infection fast and heal the nail. There are several ways to manage a nail infection; sometimes, you can control the infection at home.

Things You'll Need

• Vinegar
• Vapor rub
• Topical anti-fungal
• Oral medication
• Bowl

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Instructions

• 1

  Mix one part vinegar to two parts warm water and place the infected foot or hand in the mixture. Soak for 20 minutes to get rid of the nail infection. Rinse and dry your hands or foot after each soaking.

• 2

  Experiment with vapor rub. According to the Mayo Clinic, there's no proof to support the effectiveness of vapor rub on a nail infection. However, applying this medication on an infected toe or fingernail may clear an infection and stop the growth of fungus.

• 3

  Use OTC anti-fungal drops. Visit your drug store and browse the nail care aisle. Look for topical nail fungus drops and use this product as directed to eliminate a nail infection.

• 4

  Get rid of an infection with oral medication. When home remedies and OTC products fail to work, make a doctor's appointment. You may need a stronger medication to get rid of the nail infection.

• 5

  Remove the infected nail. Depending on the severity of the infection, a doctor may choose to remove the nail completely. It can take up to one year to regrow a healthy nail.