Whether it is on the fingernails or toenails, nail fungus is an embarrassing and often uncomfortable condition that most people want to get rid of right away. Unfortunately, it can be rather difficult to get rid of nail fungus. This is due to the fact that the fungus typically resides beneath the nail, making it difficult for medications to actually reach the site of the infection. In addition, it takes several months for the nail to return to its normal appearance even after a fungal infection is clear. This can make it difficult to tell whether an infection has been successfully treated or not. Fortunately, there are plenty of options when it comes to treating fungal infections of the nails.
Best Way To Get Rid of Nail Fungus
The Q-Clear laser is, by far, the most effective method for getting rid of nail fungus. Unlike other laser systems, it basically combines two powerful lasers in one. It offers Q-Switched and long pulse options that allow it to treat fungus quickly and painlessly. It has a success rate of 95%, which is significantly higher than the success rate of any other treatment method, including other lasers. During the procedure, patients typically feel little to no pain or discomfort. No side effects or post-treatment complications have been reported, and the Q-Clear laser has been approved by the FDA for treating nail fungus.
Other Methods To Get Rid Of Nail Fungus
Prescription oral medications like Lamisil are often the treatment method of choice when a patient first visits the doctor. These medications are usually taken for four to six weeks depending upon the location of the infection. They are powerful antifungal infections that work quite well for many patients, but they also have a lot of potential side effects. Medications like Lamisil can cause dangerous drug interactions when taken with certain other prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines and even herbal supplements. They can also cause severe liver damage and even death in limited cases. Because these medications are potentially dangerous, it is essential to discuss any medications you are taking and any preexisting health conditions prior to taking Lamisil or other antifungal medications. Your doctor may also require blood tests to test your liver function both before prescribing Lamisil and while you are taking it.
Topical creams designed to get rid of nail fungus are popular because they are affordable, and they are options that are available without a prescription. Unfortunately, they usually are not very effective in clearing fungal infections. Because the fungus resides beneath the nail, it is nearly impossible for a topical cream to actually reach the site of the infection. Prescription creams are stronger than over-the-counter products, but they still are less effective than oral medications or laser treatments.
In addition to medications and medical treatments with lasers, there are also countless homeopathic and other home methods of getting rid of nail fungus. One of the most effective homeopathic remedies is tea tree oil. When applied regularly to the nail, it has natural properties that have been known to kill fungus. Products like Vicks VapoRub and Listerine are also used regularly because they also have antiseptic properties. Many people have also found that apple cider vinegar or bleach can be used to effectively treat fungal infections. While these at-home remedies are effective in some cases, it is important to seek medical attention for severe infections or if an at-home treatment is not working.
Nail removal is often recommended in addition to another form of treatment. Removing the nail without treating the infection is almost never effective. When the nail is removed and the infection is cleared, however, it sometimes allows for faster healing and less chance of reinfection.
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