Nail Fungus

Nail fungus infection starts when fungi resides in one or more of a patient's nails. The condition usually begins with a yellowish spot under the edge of a fingernail or toenail. The infection can spread and cause discoloration, thicker nails and crumbling of the nails. This condition can be exacerbated by certain environmental conditions and personal habits.

Nail fungus is often difficult to treat and patients can be prone to repeat infections. Non-prescription treatments options exist but most are ineffective. Treatment of nail fungus can take a few different forms.

Medications for nail fungus

Oral medications like Terbinafine, Fluconazole and Itracanazole can help you grow new infection-free nails that replace the infected portions over the course of a few weeks. This method often requires an extended period of time (often months) to fully clear up the infection symptoms.

Sometimes, topical medications are prescribed for use in conjunction with oral medications.

Anti-fungal lacquer such as ciclopirox can be applied to the nails once daily to treat mild - moderate infections. Unfortunately, lacquer requires diligent use for a long period and for curing infection, it has a relatively low rate of success.