What To Do If You Have A Fungus
Tired of dealing with embarrassing and painful toe fungus? Discover a range of effective treatment options to get rid of toe fungus and restore the health of your feet. Learn more now.
Toe fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that affects the toenails. It can cause the nails to become discolored, thickened, brittle, and often emit an unpleasant odor. The condition is caused by a variety of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds, that can thrive in warm, moist environments like showers and locker rooms. People with weakened immune systems, diabetes, or a history of athlete's foot are more susceptible to toe fungus.
Signs You Might Have Toe Fungus and How to Treat It
The symptoms of toe fungus can range from mild to severe, and can include:
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Discoloration of the toenail, ranging from white or yellow spots to a brown or black discoloration
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Thickening of the toenail, making it difficult to trim or wear shoes
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Brittle or crumbly toenails that break easily
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An unpleasant odor coming from the affected toenail
Treatments for toe fungus vary in their effectiveness and can range from over-the-counter creams and ointments to prescription medications and in-office procedures. Here are some of the most common treatments for toe fungus:
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Topical antifungal medications: These are creams and ointments applied directly to the affected toenail that contain antifungal agents to kill the fungi causing the infection. These medications can be bought over the counter, but prescription strength options are also available.
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Oral antifungal medications: These are pills that are taken orally to treat the infection from the inside out. These medications are often more effective than topical treatments, but they can have side effects and can take several months to show results.
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In-office procedures: In some cases, a doctor may recommend a procedure to remove the affected toenail and treat the infection. This can include a nail matrix ablation, in which the area under the toenail is removed, or a complete removal of the toenail.
The cost of toe fungus removal can vary greatly depending on the type of treatment chosen. Over-the-counter creams and ointments are typically the most affordable option, while prescription medications and in-office procedures can be significantly more expensive.
When to Go to the Doctor
If you're considering treatment for toe fungus, it's important to talk to your doctor or podiatrist to determine the best course of action for you. Your doctor will take into account the severity of your infection, your medical history, and any other factors that may impact your treatment options.
Best Treatments for Toe Fungus and Where to Buy
To purchase treatments for toe fungus, you can start by visiting your local drugstore or pharmacy. Over-the-counter creams and ointments can typically be found on the shelves, while prescription medications will need to be obtained from a doctor or podiatrist.
Here are a few examples of products you can purchase to treat toe fungus:
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Lamisil AT Antifungal Cream: This is an over-the-counter topical antifungal medication that can be used to treat mild to moderate cases of toe fungus. You can purchase it at most drugstores or online at websites such as Amazon or Walgreens for $16-$20 depending on the store.
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Funginix Toenail Fungus Treatment: This is a topical treatment that can be used to treat toenail fungus and is available for purchase online at websites such as Amazon or Funginix for $23-$40 depending on the store.
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Prescription medications: Examples of prescription oral antifungal medications include terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox). These medications can only be obtained with a prescription from a doctor or podiatrist.
It is important to note that these are just a few examples of the many products available to treat toe fungus. Before purchasing any product, it is recommended to speak with a doctor or podiatrist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific case of toe fungus.
If you're looking for more specialized or in-office treatments, you may need to make an appointment with a podiatrist or dermatologist. These medical professionals are trained to diagnose and treat a variety of skin and nail conditions, including toe fungus.
Toe fungus is a common fungal infection that affects the toenails and can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discoloration to severe thickening and brittleness. There are a variety of treatments available, from over-the-counter creams and ointments to prescription medications and in-office procedures, with costs that can vary greatly. If you're considering treatment for toe fungus, it's important to talk to a doctor or podiatrist to determine the best course of action for you.