Pesky Toenail Fungus
Have you ever
taken your nail polish off and noticed discoloration on your toenail? Or caught
a glimpse at a friend or family member’s toenails and wondered how they got
that way? Or noticed that your toenails over the past few years have become
increasingly thickened, discolored or even lifting off the underlying nailbed.
Toenail fungus
is increasingly common (men>women). Approximately 10% of Americans, 20% over
60 years old and up to 50% over 70 years old are estimated to have affected
toenails. Both fingernails and toenails are susceptible to the infection.
Who gets toenail fungus? You are at increased risk of
developing fungus if you have Diabetes, vascular problems and/or impaired
immunity. Approximately 1/3 of Diabetics have toenail fungus. Other contributing
factors include family history, smoking, heavy perspiration or humid work
environment, wearing socks and shoes that prevent ventilation, previous injury
to nail or skin, history of foot fungus, tight footwear and/or exercises causing
repetitive minor trauma.
Most of the
time toenail fungus is symptom free. In some instances however it can cause
pain and difficulty walking. Living in Florida wearing sandals and going
barefoot is very common. Many people may feel self-conscious. Severe cases may
lead to opening in the skin and infection.
Will it go
away? Toenail fungus is notoriously difficult to cure and rarely goes away on
its own. Standard treatments are only moderately effective and, even when they
work, the fungus may return. Which treatment you choose depends on the severity
of the condition, the cost and other medical conditions you may have. There are
many topical products out on the market including nail lacquers and polish that
you can apply for 6-12 months. There are few side effects however these
products have a low cure rate. Another option are antifungal medications such
as (Lamisil/terbinafine) which are more effective than topical polish. Lamisil
kills the fungus directly rather than halting its growth. Though more effective
it still has potential side effects, including stomach upset, rash, headaches
and, rarely, liver damage (thus, periodic blood tests are usually advised).It
can also interact with other drugs. New laser treatments have recently gained
popularity and FDA approval for treatment. These have shown greater cure rates
however be ready to pay top dollar for treatment.
What about
alternative remedies? Many natural remedies have also been popularized
including tea tree oil, olive oil, vitamin E, Campho-Phenique, oil of bitter
orange and Listerine. There is little or no evidence that any are effective. Vicks
VapoRub has also been commonly used and 1 study does suggest possible benefit.
If you have
toenail fungus that is causing pain or other problems, see your primary care provider,
dermatologist or podiatrist. With all treatments described above, you must be
patient as the nails as to grow out before you can tell whether the fungus has
resolved which can take several months.
www.adamsfootandankle.com
www.adamsfootandankle.com
