Treating infected nails is time-consuming and difficult, and relapse is common. A nail infected by a fungus will change in appearance. Common changes include thickening of the nail, and nails that become brittle, dull, crumbly, distorted or discolored. Dermatophytes are a class of fungi responsible for 90 percent of fungal nail infections, according to Cleveland Clinic, though certain yeasts and molds can also cause a fungal nail infection. A fungal infection of the nails is also also called “onychomycosis,” “dermatophytic onychomycosis,” “ringworm of the nail,” and “tinea unguium.”
Antifungal Lacquer
Antifungal lacquer is similar to a nail polish and applied in the same manner. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends ciclopirox for mild to moderate cases of fungal nail infection. Ciclopirox is the active ingredient in the antifungal nail lacquers, Loprox and Penlac. According to the manufacturer of Penlac, treatment may need to be continued for as long as six months before improvement becomes visible. Further, the monthly removal of infected nail parts by a physician is recommended.
Topical Agents
Beside lacquer, topical treatments for fungal nail infections have not been shown to be very effective. The nail itself acts as a barrier to penetration. American Family Physicians reports that removing the nail, or parts thereof, can help with penetration. Still, results are generally disappointing and time-consuming and can be painful and debilitating.
Oral Medication
Medline Plus, a website of the National Institutes of Health, reports that antifungal oral medications resolve only about 50 percent of fungal nail infections and can cause serious side effects, including liver damage. Itraconazole is a broad spectrum oral medication that treats dermatophyte onychomycosis as well as non-dermatophyte molds and yeasts that can cause fungal nail infections. The Cleveland Clinic reports that terbinafine hydrochloride, the active ingredient in Lamisil, can eradicate fungal nail infections caused by dermatophytes. It is not very effective against non-dermatophyte nail infections, however.
Home Remedies
Fungi are difficult to eradicate once they have taken hold. Because they prefer dark, moist areas, keeping hands and feet dry can keep the infection from spreading, though it will likely not cure the infection. Wearing natural fiber socks that won’t trap moisture, and choosing sandals over enclosed shoes, can also help to combat spread. Anecdotal evidence supports vinegar baths as an effective home remedy for fungal nail infections. To prepare the bath, mix one part white vinegar with two parts warm water. Submerge the affected hand or foot for 15 to 20 minutes. Make sure to thoroughly dry the area after the bath.
