Toenail fungus is a serious disease that can cause significant problems. This comprehensive guide will provide an overview of the best strategies for treating toenail fungus. From the causes and risk factors to the medications and treatment options, Dr.Tomasz Biernacki explore everything you need to know to get rid of toenail fungus for good.
Causes of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is a result of the growth of different types of fungus in the toenails. These fungi can include dermatophytes, yeast, molds, and cordyceps. Our bodies are generally excellent at fighting off fungal infections, but certain conditions can lead to the growth of toenail fungus. Fungus can survive in areas of the body where the immune system cannot penetrate, such as thick toenails, where it feeds on blood sugars. Thick, flaky skin and toenails can also contribute to the development of toenail fungus.
Risk Factors
There are 9 factors that increase the risk of developing toenail fungus. These are:
- Having diabetes or a high-sugar diet
- Having poor blood flow
- Being over 65 years of age
- Wearing artificial nails
- Walking barefoot in public swimming pools
- Having a nail injury
- Having moist fingers and toes
- Having a weakened immune system
- Wearing enclosed boots or shoes
Blood Sugar & Diabetes
High blood sugar and diabetes can contribute to the development of toenail fungus. This is because high blood sugar levels can cause the body to become more susceptible to fungal infections. In particular, people with pre-diabetes or diabetes are at a higher risk of developing toenail fungus. Poor blood flow is also a common complication of diabetes, which can reduce the body's ability to fight off infections.
Medications & Treatment Overview
There are several medications available for the treatment of toenail fungus. Lamisil, terbinafine, and itraconazole are commonly prescribed antifungal agents. However, these medications can be hard on the liver, so it's important to do blood tests before, during, and after treatment. Antifungal medications are effective if the blood vessels can reach the toenail, allowing the medication to reach the fungus. However, these medications can have significant side effects and risks.
Topical Medications
Topical antifungal medications can be used to treat toenail fungus. These medications are applied directly to the toenail and can be effective for mild cases of toenail fungus. However, they may not be effective for severe cases, as the medication may not penetrate deeply enough into the nail.
Home Remedies
Several home remedies can be used to treat toenail fungus. These include tea tree oil, coconut oil, vinegar, and essential oils. However, the effectiveness of these remedies is not scientifically proven, and they may not work for everyone.
Laser Treatment
Laser treatment is a newer option for the treatment of toenail fungus. This treatment involves using a laser to kill the fungus in the toenail. The procedure is relatively painless and has few side effects, but it can be expensive and may require multiple treatments.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the toenail and treat the fungal infection. This is usually only done in severe cases where other treatments have been unsuccessful.
Prevention
Preventing toenail fungus is key to avoiding the need for treatment. Here are three ways to prevent toenail fungus:
- Keep the feet clean and dry
- Wear clean socks and shoes
- Avoid walking barefoot in public swimming pools or showers
Additionally, practicing good foot hygiene and proper nail care can also help prevent toenail fungus.
4 Big Secrets that can help you get rid of Toenail Fungus
Dr.Tomasz Biernacki discusses the best ways to treat toenail fungus and reveal four big secrets that can help you get rid of it quickly and effectively.
Secret #1: Smoothing Down the Nail Vertically
One of the most effective ways to treat toenail fungus is to smooth down the nail vertically. This technique involves using an electronic file to file down the nail until it is as thin as possible. By doing this, you can remove all the loose skin and nail, and spray it with alcohol or Betadine to kill nearly 100% of the fungus. The best part is that this technique is painless and doesn't cause bleeding. (Check out his Video)
Secret #2: Understanding the Growth of Toenails
Many people believe that bleaching their toenails will cure the fungus instantly. However, the reality is that the toenail is dead, and it takes time for a new toenail to grow. Toenails grow at a rate of about one millimeter per month, which means that it takes approximately 12 months for a big toenail to grow back fully. Fingernails, on the other hand, grow quicker, taking about four to seven months to grow back fully.
Secret #3: Addressing Your Diet
While it's possible to cure toenail fungus, it's important to address your diet to prevent it from coming back. If you continue to eat sugary foods, the fungus can return. Maintaining a healthy diet can help you prevent toenail fungus from recurring.
Secret #4: Addressing Athlete's Foot
If you don't address your athlete's foot, the fungus can crawl from your feet, shoes, or socks, and infect your nails again. To prevent this, it's important to cure your athlete's foot quickly and effectively. We have included two videos that can help you cut sugar out of your diet and cure athlete's foot at home.
Toenail fungus is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment. By following the tips and secrets outlined in this article, you can effectively treat toenail fungus and prevent it from coming back. Remember to maintain a healthy diet and address your athlete's foot to ensure that your toenails remain healthy and strong.