In the case of toenail fungus, the diagnosis is quite simple. The only thing that needs to be done is to look at your hand. Any discoloration or distortion should be immediately reported to your physician so that the necessary action can be taken. A simple test will show whether you have a fungal infection or not. Once the condition has been confirmed by laboratory testing, your physician will most likely recommend a course of medication for you.
In general, the treatment recommended for toenail fungus infections are oral medications that treat the fungal infection. You can also take pills that are applied topically into your nails. These medications are effective but have side effects. Also, you have to remember that there are some other medical treatments that your doctor may recommend for you. These include taking a pill that will suppress your immune system to prevent the activation of fungi that normally causes fungal nail infections.
In addition, there are over-the-counter medications for toenail fungus that is effective. Some of these products are even considered natural, which could be helpful if you are bothered by any kind of side effect. It is not a good idea for you to self-medicate, especially if you do not have any prior experience with these fungal nail infections. The reason is that you might end up doing things that will worsen the condition of your already bad infection.
There is another type of medication for toenail fungus that is called antifungal liquid. This type of medication comes in an ointment form and it is applied directly to the infected nails. It targets the fungus and slows down its growth. However, antifungal nail sprays are effective only when you keep applying the medication. Once you stop, the fungus will develop again and the infection will become worse than before.
Other people who suffer from fungal nail infections are those who have been ill. There are certain types of fungi that thrive under damp conditions and this is why you have to make sure that you keep your feet dry all the time. When your feet are not properly dried, you are exposing yourself to fungus spores that can trigger the development of these nail problems. If you cannot stop yourself from being ill, at least practice good hygiene practices so that you will prevent the fungus from growing on your nails.
You can also take oral medications for toenail fungus. These oral medications are usually effective, but they come with certain health risks. Before you take any oral medication for fungal nail symptoms, it is best to consult your doctor first to be sure that you are okay to take the medicine. This is also the case if you are under any type of treatment for another illness as well.