Fungal Nail Infection Treatments at Skin And Cancer Institute
Fungal nail infections affect both fingers and toes, though they are more common in toenails than fingernails. The technical name for a fungal nail infection is onychomycosis.
Our nails require constant maintenance in order to be kept neat and clean. When not properly cared for, our nails can become brittle and dry, resulting in cracks that allow fungi to enter. The most common cause of fungal nail infections is a type of fungus called dermatophyte. Yeast and mold as well as athlete’s foot can also cause fungal nail infections, spreading from one nail to another if left untreated. Other factors such as reduced blood circulation to the hands and feet and a weakened immune system may also contribute to the formation of fungal nail infections.
Factors that can increase your risk of developing a fungal nail infection include:
Oral medications help new nails grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected cells with healthy ones. Treatment with oral medication typically lasts for 6- 12 weeks, but final results will not be visible until new nail grows in completely.
Available in both colored and clear formulas, antifungal nail polish is applied to infected nails and surrounding skin once a day. Every seven days, the nails must be thoroughly cleaned with alcohol. Depending on the extent of infection, it may be necessary to apply medicated nail polish daily for up to 18 months.
After thoroughly cleaning and soaking the hands, antifungal cream is applied to each infected nail. Topical creams work best when the nail is thinned.
In more severe cases of infection, your doctor may suggest temporary removal of the nail so that an extra strength antifungal drug can be applied under the nail directly onto the infected area.