Onchomycosis or nail fungus is a contagious fungus of the nails most commonly invading the toenails. Not only is this nail fungus unsightly, it is contagious as well, and derives from the same fungus that causes ringworm. Onchomycosis attacks the nail bed and the nail plate causing thickening, loosening and/or relocation of the toenails, weak and brittle nail tissue, erosion, deterioration, reshaping of the nail edges and/or nail discoloration. Approximately 35 million people in the USA are affected with a toenail fungal infection.
Home remedies for this condition consist of Australian tea tree oil and/or grapefruit seed extract, which contain anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Medical treatment for this condition includes topical medications, oral medication and/or laser therapy. Oral medications include Lamisil and/or Sporanox. These drugs help a new nail grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected part. This drug is taken for 6-12 weeks with the end result being seen when the new nail grows back completely. Oral antifungals may cause side effects ranging from skin rash to liver damage. You may need occasional blood tests to check on how you are doing with these types of drugs. These medications may not be recommended for patients with liver damage or congestive heart failure and/or those taking certain medications. Laser therapy is an effective form of treatment, exhibited in numerous studies, however, is not covered by insurance. Topical medications include Jublia.
Jublia is a topical solution applied to the toenails daily, designed to eliminate fungus on the toenail surface, the nail bed, around the nail and under the nail. You are a candidate for Jublia if you answer yes to any of these three questions, listed below:
- Do you have thickened or discolored toenails?
- Are you concerned by the way your toenails look?
- Has the appearance or condition of your toenails caused you to avoid certain events or wearing certain shoes?
If you are tired of fighting toenail fungus please schedule an appointment today at one of Our Offices. FIGHT IT, Don’t HIDE IT…with Jublia (efinaconazole) Topical Solution, 10%.
`