How to Cure Fungal Toenails

Fungal toenails can cause discomfort and embarrassment. The fungal infection begins under the base of the toenail and sometimes take years before spreading to the surface of the nail, causing pain, discoloration and a foul smell. Like any fungal infection, treatment requires consistency, patience and the guidance of your doctor, says the American Podiatric Medical Association. There is no fast-acting cure for fungal toenails but there are steps you can take to treat them.

Instructions

• 1

  See your doctor. Even if there is no pain, early detection of a fungal infection leads to faster treatment and recovery times.

• 2

  Take your prescribed medicine. Depending on the severity of the infection, your doctor may recommend an oral antifungal pill or a topical cream to apply around the affected toenail. Treatment time for either medication is approximately three months.

• 3

  Agree to surgery. If your fungal infection is severe, your doctor may recommend surgically removing part or all of your toenail to directly access the infected skin. Continue to apply the prescribed antifungal medication over the skin previously covered by toenail after your surgery.

• 4

  Maintain good foot hygiene after the infection heals. Your feet are exposed to millions of microbial bacteria every day and toenails offer a warm, sometimes moist place for germs to spread. Wash in between your toes with soap and use a nail brush to remove any excess debris that accumulates under your toenails.