Since fungal nails are usually more resistant and more difficult to
treat than Athlete's foot, topical or oral antifungal medications
may be prescribed. Permanent nail removal is another possible form
of treatment for fungal nails.
After a fungal nail infection has cleared up, you can take steps to
prevent the infection from coming back.
Keeping the fungus under control will help prevent a fungal
infection of the skin from reinfecting the nail. Before bed,
thoroughly wash and dry your feet, and apply a non-prescription
anti-fungal cream to the entire foot from the ankle down. Use the
cream every night, then gradually apply it less often. Keep your
feet dry. Dry feet are less likely to become infected. Apply powder
to your dry feet after you take a shower or bath.
Other tips:
- Don't share nail clippers or nail files with others.
- Don't share shoes or socks with others.
- Try not to injure your nail, such as by cutting it too short (trauma to the nail may lead to infections).
- Wear dry cotton socks, and change them two or three times a day if necessary.
- Wear dry shoes that allow air to circulate around your feet (tight, enclosed, moist shoes contribute to fungal toenail infections).
- Wear shower sandals or shower shoes when you are at a public pool or shower.
Prevention
Follow basic foot care guidelines and you more than likely can head
off most common foot fungus problems.