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Fungal Toenail Infection Treatment

Fungal infections, also known as onychomycosis, are very difficult to treat. The doctor may prescribe ointments, powders and pills to get rid of the infection. According to the Mayo Clinic, it takes four or more months to completely cure an infection because you have to wait for your new, healthy toenail to grow in. You may also frequently experience recurrent infections. However, if the fungus is treated as soon as it has appeared, it is possible to get rid of the fungus for good.

  1. Home Remedies

    • Mild fungus can be treated at home, but you need to see the doctor if your fungus appears to become worse or is not clearing up after one week. The longer you wait, the more rigorous your treatment and more difficult it will be to completely get rid of the fungus.

      The most common home remedy for toenail fungus is tea tree oil. According to HomeRemedies.com, tea tree oil acts as a natural disinfectant and fungicide. Dilute tea tree oil with one or two drops of olive oil and rub the solution over the toe. You could also mix tea tree oil with lavender oil. Mix equal amounts of both and use a cotton ball to rub the solution on the affected toe. Oregano oil and olive oil can be combined to fight the infection as well. Combine two drops of oregano oil in a teaspoon of olive oil and rub the mixture into the toe. Some people report using Vicks VapoRub to clear up an infection. Simply rub the cream on your toes with Q-tips or cotton balls.

      Vinegar has been touted as one of the more successful fungal home remedies. According to the Mayo Clinic, vinegar inhibits the growth of certain bacteria. Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes in a vinegar and water solution. Mix one part vinegar to two parts water. If you feet become irritated, add more water. Soaking your feet in hydrogen peroxide or mouthwash is also helpful, as the chemicals will minimize the existence of any bacteria.

    Medication

    • Most times, a fungal infection is too severe for home remedies to cure. Your doctor will prescribe ointments, powders and creams to use on the toes, depending upon the severity and type of your infection. Most doctors will prescribe an oral medication for severe or persistent infections. The only way to know if these medications are working is to wait and watch for new, healthy nail growth. For this reason, the treatment can last for four months or more.

      In extremely rare cases, the doctor will surgically remove the infected nail to allow a healthy one to grow in its place. This should be an option only if the infection is extremely severe or painful.

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