How To Treat Toenail Fungus or Discoloration

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How To Treat Toenail Fungus or Discoloration

Understanding Toenail Fungus and Discoloration

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that causes toenails to yellow, thicken, and become brittle. If left untreated, the infection can spread and lead to pain, discomfort, and even nail loss. Addressing toenail fungus properly requires internal and external treatments to eliminate the root cause and restore healthy nails.


Why Should We Address Gut Health?

If you have a fungal infection on your toenail, there may be an underlying issue in your gut. A compromised gut microbiome can contribute to systemic fungal overgrowth, making it harder to eliminate toenail fungus. However, treating gut health alone may not be enough. Since toenail fungus resides in the nail bed—an area with limited blood circulation—direct topical treatments are also necessary. The most effective approach involves internal and external antifungal therapies to create an environment where the fungus cannot survive.

Click here for a consultation with a functional medicine doctor to find out about treatments for toenail fungus and discoloration!

How To Treat Toenail Fungus or Discoloration

Conventional Toenail Fungus Treatments

If you visit a podiatrist for toenail fungus, they will likely prescribe an oral antifungal medication such as Lamisil (terbinafine) or recommend an over-the-counter topical treatment. While these medications can be effective, they often come with potential side effects, particularly for liver health. Additionally, conventional treatments do not address the root cause of the fungal infection, meaning it could return in the future.

How To Treat Toenail Fungus or Discoloration

Functional Medicine Approach to Treating Toenail Fungus

A more holistic approach to treating toenail fungus involves:

How To Treat Toenail Fungus or Discoloration

Alternative Treatments for Toenail Fungus

1. Topical Antifungal Treatments

Applying antifungal oils directly to the infected nail can help combat the infection. Effective options include:

2. Fungal Soaks

Soaking your feet in an antifungal solution can help eliminate fungus from the entire foot, reducing the risk of reinfection. A simple and effective soak consists of:

3. Nail Hygiene and Care


Preventing Toenail Fungus Recurrence

To prevent fungal infections from returning, it's essential to:


Conclusion

Toenail fungus can be stubborn, but with the right approach, it is manageable. Combining gut health support, dietary changes, topical treatments, and proper foot hygiene can effectively eliminate the infection and prevent it from returning. If you’re dealing with persistent toenail fungus, consult a functional medicine doctor for a comprehensive treatment plan.


FAQs

1. How long does it take to treat toenail fungus?

Treatment can take several months since toenails grow slowly. Consistency with topical and internal treatments is key.

2. Can toenail fungus spread to other parts of the body?

Yes, if left untreated, the fungus can spread to other toenails, fingernails, or even the skin.

3. Are home remedies effective for toenail fungus?

Home remedies like tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, and coconut oil can be effective, but severe cases may require additional treatment.

4. Can diet impact toenail fungus?

Yes! A diet high in sugar and refined carbs can feed fungal infections, while an anti-inflammatory diet can help fight them.

5. When should I see a doctor for toenail fungus?

If the infection is persistent, painful, or spreading, consult a doctor for a personalized treatment plan.


If you have any questions about toenail fungus and discoloration, please consult a functional medicine doctor and learn how to treat this condition.

 

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Recommended Products

Herbal Nail Fungus Soak

Liver Supreme 90 caps

 

References:

  1. Mayo Clinic – Onychomycosis (Toenail Fungus) Overview: https://www.mayoclinic.org
  2. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) – Tea Tree Oil and Antifungal Properties: https://www.nccih.nih.gov
  3. Journal of Fungi – Natural Antifungal Agents for Nail Infections: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/jof
  4. American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) – Fungal Nail Infections: https://www.aad.org
  5. PubMed – Studies on Oregano Oil and Antifungal Activity: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

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