How To Get Rid Of Nail Fungus?

Nail fungus has an interesting name (that is rather difficult to pronounce). But even if you can’t say the word “onychomycosis” you should understand some of the ways to get rid of this condition. Start your path to getting rid of nail fungus by knowing what causes it. Generally, this malady is a fungus or mold. However, you may also have a bacterial infection under or around the fingernails or toenails.

Fungus thrives in warm, moist places. We often pick up this condition from showers, locker rooms or one of many other locations where warm air and moisture are constant. If someone else has fungus or bacteria on their feet or elsewhere on their bodies they can pass it along to others. We often find nail fungus on our feet because we wear shoes that don’t allow the feet to dry out properly.

What to Watch For
If you notice that your toenails are getting thicker than usual or take on an odd shape, you may have nail fungus. Nails that are attacked by fungus or bacteria sometimes become discolored – especially yellow. In some cases you may notice an odor that wasn’t present before.

Nail fungus isn’t serious health condition, for most people. However, this condition may cause embarrassment because of misshapen toenails and discoloration. Keep in mind that nail fungus generally won’t just “go away.” You should probably take some steps to get rid of the problem. But you’ll have to be patient. This could take a long time. The old, infected growth will have to grow out and be replaced by new, non-infected growth.

One way to get relief from this condition lies with prescription medicines taken orally. If you notice the symptoms mentioned earlier, visit your doctor and ask about treating nail fungus. The doctor may prescribe such medications as Itraconazole or Fluconazole. Ask about Lamisil cream. The medicine must work from within to clear up conditions that cause fungus growth. You may also want to talk with your doctor or pharmacist about over-the-counter creams or lotions that work against fungus. These can be applied directly on the affected area.

There are some self-help remedies you can try as well. You can soak your feet in a mixture of white vinegar and a mouthwash with alcohol content. You should do this a couple of times each day for several weeks so that the acidic content of the vinegar and the alcohol in the mouthwash can work on the living fungus. As you start to see improvement make sure that you develop the habit of clipping the nails and keeping them clean.

To prevent future infections of fungus or bacteria, make sure you focus on cleaning your feet and toes well when showering or bathing. Dry your feet thoroughly, especially around the toe nails and between the toes. Don’t put on shoes and socks on immediately after a shower or bath. Allow the feet to “breathe” for a few minutes. Use foot powders that work against fungus growth as well. If you have to go to a public pool or shower room make sure you take extra precautions when cleaning and drying your feet. Wear shower shoes or “flip flops” if possible.

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