Nail fungus is made up of tiny organisms (Tinea Unguium) that can infect fingernails and toenails. The nails of our fingers and toes are very effective barriers. This barrier makes it quite difficult for a superficial infection to invade the nail. Once an infection has set up residence however, the same barrier that was so effective in protecting us against infection now works against us, making it difficult to treat the infection.
More than 35 million people in the United States get this fungus. The fungus lives underneath the nail. The nail provides a safe place for the fungus and protects it while it grows, since fungus like dark and damp places. This is why it鈥檚 hard to reach and stop nail fungus.
The organisms can sometimes spread from one person to another because these critters can live where the air is often moist and people鈥檚 feet are bare. This can happen in places like shower stalls, bathrooms, or locker rooms or it can be passed around on a nail file or emery board. So, don鈥檛 share them. Nail fungus may also spread from one of your nails to other nails.
The best treatment of course is prevention. Keep your nails cut straight across. If nails are hard to cut, soften by soaking in salt water (use 1 teaspoon per gallon of water and then dry well). Keep feet dry and well ventilated. Be careful with artificial nails and be selective about choosing your manicurist. Ask about how they sterilize their instruments. See a podiatrist or your health care provider if you see signs of fungus.
Topical creams applied directly to the infected site are often used for less serious infections. Visit the foot care section of your local drug store chain. Creams include Lotrimin, Monistat, Nizoral, Tinactin, and Lamisil. If the topical treatments fail, more potent medications can be taken orally if your health care provider thinks it is necessary. Oral medications may have side effects, so tell your health care provider about any other medications, including birth control like the pill or Depo-Provera, if you are prescribed an oral medication for fungus.
The nails can reveal a lot about the body鈥檚 internal health. Healthy nails are often a sign of good health, while bad nails are often a tip off to more serious problems. A high protein diet may help your nails grow stronger and healthier.
I'm not a doctor... just a Corpsman.Nail Fungus - What works?
Nail fungus, is a condition that affects the nail of around 6% to 8% of the adult population. A change in color, thickening of the nail, becoming brittle, rippled nail or nail falling off, may be a sign of nail fungus. There are cures.
Have a look at http://www.squidoo.com/nail-fungus for more
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Vick's has been getting a lot of publicity lately. It will probably take a while to work, though.
I know people who got fungus from their acrylic nails and some of the fungus won't go away. Check with your doctor what you can do about it. Good luck!
Dr Gott , the MD who ha a syndicated newspaper column, recommends Vick's Vaporub, and swears by it.
I took a prescription for about a year and it cleared it all up..but it was somewhat expensive.
I once used tea tree oil. I scraped away the part of the nail that was infected (as much as I could do) and then applied full strength tea tree oil... that seemed to be the end of it. I do believe that tea tree oil has anti-fungal properties. You could also try colloidal silver if you are feeling adventurous. Anyway, the oil really smells strong but, it may be worthy a try (plus it is inexpensive). Good luck.
Is the Lamisil a cream or a pill that you used? There are numerous over the counter anti fungals avail...some work better then others...each person is different where medication results are involved. There is also several oral medications that your doctor can give you...but these are expensive and you have to take them for long periods of time. My daughter developed a fungal infection in her finger when she was little...they prescribed a cream called Nizoril...her nail is normal now.
Hope this helps
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