Preventing and Removing Nail Fungus

By Jill Gibbs

Onychomycocis(ON-I-ko-my-ko-sis) is also known as nail fungus or toenail fungus. It is most common in toenails. The fungus (a living organisim) lives under the protective layer of the nail. It grows and thrives on the keratin. Characteristics of nail fungus include yellow discoloration, brittle, thick, disfiguring of the toenails. As the fungus grows it pushes the nail up & separates from the nail bed. Wearing shoes can be painful especially if you have to stand or walk for long periods of time. Nail fungus is not very pretty & wearing opened-toed shoes can be embarrassing and stressful.

Ten percent or more of the population suffer from nail fungus. Its not known for sure how many people have nail fungus because most do not seek treatment. It can begin with some kind of trauma to one of your toes. The injured toe is then vulnerable to infection. Eventually the nail fungus surfaces and can potentially spread to the other toenails. Specific populations of people that have a higher risk of developing nail fungus include those who work with detergents regularly, athletes, laborers, those with depressed immune systems like HIV, the elderly, diabetics.

Nail fungus should not be ignored or taken lightly. Medical doctors, Naturopathic doctors and certified herbalists can all offer instruction on how to cure the nail fungus. The traditional medical doctor can prescribe oral medications like Sporonox^TM or Lamisil^TM. You must take the medication regularly for 3 months and there are possible side effects such as liver damage associated with these treatments. As a result, you must have your liver checked and rechecked during treatment because the level of drug toxicity is high. The traditional medical doctor can also prescribe a topical medication like Ciclopriox^TM. It is a liquid solution that is brushed onto the nail fungus daily for 4-6 months. Certified herbalists and naturopathic doctors can recommend natural remedies. There are over the counter anti-fungal ointments that can be used to treat mild cases of nail fungus. Whatever method you choose will require you to follow the daily regimen for the recommended time frame in order to heal the nail fungus once and for all.

Nail Fungus Preventative Measures