Fungal nail infections can get worse over time. See your doctor if you notice your nail has turned brown or black, if it suddenly hurts, or if it pulls away from the nail bed.
What happens if you leave toenail fungus untreated?
Sometimes untreated toenail fungus can spread to the surrounding skin on the foot. This may result in athlete’s foot, a condition marked by itchy, red, cracked skin.
What happens if you ignore toenail fungus?
It’s easy to ignore fungal nail infections at first, since you may not have any pain. But if you don’t treat them, it can hurt to put any pressure on the area. If an infection gets bad enough, it could even become hard to walk.
Can toenail fungus spread internally?
It is possible to get fungal infections that do spread to the bone, which is a very serious condition. Ultimately, when it comes to toenail fungus, since it can be spread to other parts of the body, and can spread internally, it is worth dealing with it as soon as you notice it.
Can nail fungus cause other health issues?
A severe case of nail fungus can be painful and may cause permanent damage to your nails. And it may lead to other serious infections that spread beyond your feet if you have a suppressed immune system due to medication, diabetes or other conditions.
Can toenail fungus be life threatening?
Although fungal nail infections are not life-threatening, they’re an important health problem because of their high prevalence and poor response to therapy.
Can toenail fungus get into bloodstream?
Widespread infection. In severe cases of cellulitis, the infection can enter the bloodstream and be deadly. “And it can all start from a simple fungal infection,” Joseph says.
Will toenail fungus go away on its own?
But nail fungus doesn’t go away by itself. And if you don’t treat it, there’s a chance it could get worse. It could spread to other nails or through your body. It could cause pain when you walk.
Should I worry about toenail fungus?
When to See Your Doctor Anytime you think you have a fungal nail infection, or any nail problem, and treating it at home doesn’t help, see your doctor or podiatrist (foot doctor). The sooner you go, the sooner your doctor can help. Fungal nail infections can get worse over time.
Can toenail fungus spread to other parts of the body?
The greatest danger of not treating the foot or toenail fungus is that it can spread to other parts of the body, such as the hands and groin. If for some reason you can’t treat your toenails or your feet right away, at least use an antifungal topical cream on the surrounding skin, Dr. Ng says.
How do you get rid of toenail fungus fast?
– Over the counter antifungal creams or ointments. File or cut off any white markings on your nails. Soak your nails in water and dry off before you put on the medicated cream.
– Special nail care. If you keep your nails trimmed, it can reduce the pressure and pain you feel.
How long does it take for toenail fungus to go away?
Your nails may not look “normal” after treatment. It can take as long as a year to 18 months for your nail to grow out a fungus.
Does hydrogen peroxide kill toenail fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide can kill fungus that grows on toenails. You can directly wipe hydrogen peroxide on your infected toes or toenails with a clean cloth or cotton swab.
How do you get rid of toenail fungus in one day?
According to a 2016 review, thymol has antifungal and antibacterial properties. To treat toenail fungus, apply oregano oil to the affected nail twice daily with a cotton swab. Some people use oregano oil and tea tree oil together.
What happens if you don’t treat fingernail fungus?
A severe case of nail fungus can be painful and may cause permanent damage to your nails. And it may lead to other serious infections that spread beyond your feet if you have a suppressed immune system due to medication, diabetes or other conditions.
How long does it take for vinegar to kill toenail fungus?
The antifungal properties also make vinegar soaks a good idea for people who have toenail fungus. Soak your feet for 10 to 15 minutes daily in a vinegar bath until the infection subsides. You can increase the length of time in the soak gradually. It may take two to three weeks or longer to see improvement in symptoms.
What vinegar is best for toenail fungus?
Apple cider vinegar is a popular remedy for toenail fungus due to its antifungal properties. If you want to treat your fungus using ACV, you can soak your feet in a mixture of warm water and the vinegar for about 15 minutes, twice a day.
What kills nail fungus fast?
Oral antifungal drugs. These drugs are often the first choice because they clear the infection more quickly than do topical drugs. Options include terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox). These drugs help a new nail grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected part.
What is the most effective treatment for toenail fungus?
Oral antifungal drugs. These drugs are often the first choice because they clear the infection more quickly than do topical drugs. Options include terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox). These drugs help a new nail grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected part.
Does hydrogen peroxide kill foot fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide can effectively kill the fungus on the surface level of the foot, as well as any surface bacteria that could cause an infection.
How do I know if my toenail fungus is dying?
Brittle, crumbly toenail. Thickened toenail. Distorted toenail shape. A dark color building up under your toenail.