Dealing with toenail fungus can be frustrating, but knowing the signs that indicate it is dying can bring relief. At Haro Podiatry Center in Clifton, New Jersey, we understand how important it is for you to see progress. Here, we'll guide you on how to know if toenail fungus is dying, so you can confidently assess your treatment's effectiveness.
What is Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is a common infection that affects the nail. It occurs when microscopic organisms, such as fungi, get into the nail and cause an infection. The infection usually begins as a white or yellow-brown spot under the tip of the toenail or fingernail.
Risk factors that may increase the chances of developing toenail fungus include advancing age, poor circulation, weakened immune system, history of athlete's foot, sweaty shoes, and nail injury.
You might also experience a bit of an odor or discomfort. As a health concern, this problem gets more common as we age. According to the AAFP, it affects a surprising 20% of people over 60.
How to Know if Toenail Fungus is Dying
Successfully treating a fungal nail infection takes time. A 2017 review found it can be a solid 12 to 18 months before you see a completely fresh nail. However, you don't have to wait a year for signs that things are headed in the right direction. Here’s how to know if toenail fungus is dying:
Changes in Nail Color
One of the first signs that toenail fungus is dying is a change in nail color. When the fungus is active, the nail typically appears yellow, brown, or cloudy. As the fungus dies, you may notice the nail returning to its normal, healthy color.
It may take some time for the entire nail to grow out and appear completely clear, but any positive color change is a good indicator that the treatment is working.
Reduction in Nail Thickness
Toenail fungus often causes the nail to thicken, making it difficult to trim and manage. If you see that your nail is becoming thinner and easier to cut, it is a sign that the fungus is dying. As the infection clears, the nail should gradually return to its natural thickness.
Decreased Odor
Fungal infections can produce a noticeable, unpleasant odor. A significant reduction or complete disappearance of this smell is another sign that the toenail fungus is dying. If you notice a decrease in odor, it means that the fungal activity is diminishing.
Improved Nail Texture
Healthy nails are smooth and even, whereas fungal-infected nails tend to be brittle, crumbly, and ragged. If you observe your nail's texture improving, becoming smoother, and less brittle, it is a clear sign that the fungus is dying. This improvement indicates that your nail is starting to heal and regenerate.
Reduction in Discomfort
Toenail fungus can cause pain and discomfort, especially if the infection is severe. As the fungus dies, you should experience a noticeable reduction in pain and discomfort. If walking, wearing shoes, or applying pressure to the affected nail becomes less painful, it is a sign that your treatment is effective.
Presence of Healthy Nail Growth
New, healthy nail growth from the base of your nail bed is a strong indicator that the toenail fungus is dying. This new growth will be clearer and stronger compared to the infected part of the nail. As the new nail grows out, the old, infected portion will be pushed out, showing that your treatment is working.
Fungal Debris Reduction
Underneath the nail, fungal infections often produce a buildup of debris. As the toenail fungus dies, you should notice a reduction in this buildup. Regular cleaning and maintenance will become easier, and the nail bed will appear cleaner.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
This is where knowing how to know if toenail fungus is dying requires a dose of patience. While it can take up to a year or even longer for a fully fresh toenail to emerge, visible changes often appear much sooner.
According to the UK's National Health Service, as soon as healthy growth pops up at your nail base, your toenail infection is often considered “clinically cured.”
Effective Toenail Fungus Treatment Options
Now that you know how to know if toenail fungus is dying, here's a rundown of typical treatments for stubborn toenail fungus:
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Sometimes, you're in luck, and the fungus is pretty mild. If it’s affecting less than half of your toenail and isn't near the base, over-the-counter (OTC) remedies might be all you need. Doctors typically recommend this if only a few nails are involved. Consider the following OTC treatments:
Antifungal Creams
These creams work best when you consistently apply them to the infected nail. For deeper penetration, gently file down the surface of your toenail beforehand. Look for antifungal nail creams with ingredients like clotrimazole or terbinafine.
Nail Softening Kits
You can find these kits at most drugstores. They combine an antifungal cream with a urea cream (the urea softens things up).
Prescription Options
If over-the-counter options aren't doing the trick, a trip to the podiatrist is in order. Stronger treatments are often needed for moderate or severe infections, or those closer to the nail bed. This is especially true if your infection hasn't responded to OTC remedies. Here's what a podiatrist might recommend:
Oral Antifungal Medications
Oral antifungal medications, such as terbinafine (Lamisil), are commonly prescribed for the treatment of fungal nail infections, including toenail fungus. These medications work by targeting the fungal infection systemically, helping to eliminate the fungus from within the body.
These medications are known for their effectiveness in treating fungal nail infections. They are often recommended when topical treatments alone are not sufficient or when the infection is severe or widespread.
Topical Antifungal Treatments
Topical antifungal treatments, such as prescription-strength nail lacquers like Penlac, are a method of treating fungal nail infections (including toenail fungus) by directly applying medication to the affected nails.
These prescription-strength lacquers typically contain higher concentrations of active antifungal ingredients compared to over-the-counter (OTC) versions, making them potentially more effective in eradicating the fungal infection.
These antifungal nail lacquers are applied directly to the affected nails like applying nail polish. The medication is designed to penetrate the nail plate and reach the site of the fungal infection.
Fungal nail infections can be stubborn, and it may take several months of consistent application to see noticeable improvement.
Laser Treatment
Laser treatment for toenail fungus involves using focused laser light beams to target the infection. The laser energy is absorbed by the fungal cells, leading to their destruction without affecting the surrounding healthy tissue. This treatment method is non-invasive and painless, with most patients experiencing minimal discomfort during the procedure.
While laser treatment for toenail fungus shows promise in effectively targeting and destroying the fungal infection, it is not typically the first-line option for treatment. Laser treatment for toenail fungus may be considered when other treatment options have not been successful or in cases where individuals prefer non-pharmacological approaches.
Are There Home Remedies for Toenail Fungus?
While you might come across various DIY remedies involving ingredients like tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, or Vicks VapoRub, keep in mind that the research on their effectiveness is mixed.
If you're looking for natural treatment methods, talk to a podiatrist in New Jersey about trying them alongside (and never as a replacement for) conventional medical treatments.
What Happens if I Stop Treatment Too Early?
If you stop treatment for toenail fungus too early, there is a higher chance that the infection will not be fully eradicated and may return. Fungal nail infections can be persistent and may require a long treatment duration to eliminate them.
Failing to complete the full course of treatment increases the risk of a recurrence, and the infection can spread to other nails or even to other people if proper hygiene is not maintained.
Moreover, untreated or partially treated toenail fungus can become more resistant to treatment over time, making it even more challenging to eliminate in the future. It's important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional and complete the entire treatment regimen to ensure the best chance of successful eradication of the fungus.
If you have any concerns or experience any unusual side effects during your treatment, it's always advisable to consult a healthcare professional in Clifton, New Jersey for guidance rather than stopping the treatment abruptly on your own.
Consult with a Podiatrist for Toenail Fungus
Learning how to know if toenail fungus is dying often involves close observation. While a complete cure takes time (up to a year in many cases), look out for clues that you’re on the right path. The appearance of healthy, clear nail growth at the base is the ultimate indicator.
Along with gradual improvements in color and texture, these changes signal the treatment is effectively combating the fungal overgrowth. With a good treatment plan from a podiatrist and a dash of patience, you’ll be able to get rid of toenail fungus.
At Haro Podiatry Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating toenail fungus. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you achieve healthy, fungus-free nails. If you are dealing with toenail fungus or have any foot-related concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Visit our office at 1135 Clifton Avenue, Suite 201, Clifton, NJ, or call us at (973) 777-5771. Let us help you put your best foot forward.