Tinea unguiumis a fungalnail infectionthat most commonly affects the toenails.
The condition impacts up to 14% of the population.
This article explains the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of tinea unguium.
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Causes
A fungus causes tinea unguium infections.
Children are the least affected, with 0.6% of kids under 18 having tinea unguium.
Diagnosis
Healthcare providers can usually diagnose nail fungus by looking at your nail.
Treatment
Nail fungal treatmentmay involve topical treatments, medications, or nail removal.
Some people use natural remedies.
However, they are usually ineffective for nail fungus.
Topicals
Topical nail fungus treatmentsare antifungal medications that are applied to the nail.
These medications include:
These types of medications are most often used for mild infections.
They work by preventing new fungus from growing as the infected nails grow.
However, topical medications may not always be the best choice for treatment.
Antifungal Pills
Oral medications orally are reserved for more severe cases of nail fungal infections.
Treatment usually lasts three months.
Discussing these medications with a healthcare provider and following their instructions carefully is important.
Nail Removal
A healthcare provider may recommend nail removal when other treatments don’t work.
Sometimes this is done by applying a chemical to your nail.
After treatment, the nail usually grows back.
Laser Therapy
Laser treatmentuses heat-producing energy to kill nail fungus.
This treatment is sometimes combined with other treatments, like topical antifungals.
Laser treatment may be a good alternative for those who can’t tolerate stronger medications.
While proponents tout the antifungal properties of these products, there is little evidence to support their use.
The fungus can live in shoes, boots, and slippers and reinfect you after you heal.
Coping
Fungal nail infections require a lengthy treatmentsometimes for a year.
This gives you the greatest chance to catch it early and speed healing.
Summary
Tinea unguium is a fungal nail infection.
It is due to a fungus that enters the skin and nails through cracks or cuts.
Nail fungus is notoriously difficult to treat, and treatment may last months or as long as a year.
Topical or oral antifungals are standard treatment methods, but laser therapy or nail removal may sometimes be warranted.
A Word From Verywell
People with nail fungus may feel embarrassed about the way their nails look.
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