Several studies conducted in the US and Europe estimate prevalence rates of between 8-12% of the adult population. The risk of contracting the disease increases with age, poor hygiene, long term exposure of the nails to water, nail injury, diabetes and peripheral vascular disease.

The initial sign of infection is usually a discolored mark or spot at the tip (distal edge) of the nail. If left untreated, the fungus (and associated discoloration) will spread down the nail towards the cubicle. The spread of the fungus is typically accompanied by a loss of nail texture and the accumulation of debris under the nail. In severe cases, the nail can become increasingly thickened and distorted as it lifts off the nail base.

If you suffer from Onychomycosis, most health professions will recommend that you take action to treat the disease. Fungal infections are progressive in nature and can become increasingly embedded and difficult to treat. In particular it is important to start treatment before the lighter colored half moon section of the nail near the cuticle has been affected.

Things to know about nail fungus treatment:

It can take several months to clear up a nail fungus infection. In order to prepare yourself mentally for this, read this article and follow the links to our treatment tracker.

Toenails are much more likely to become infected than fingernails. As toenails are slower growing, treatment times are typically longer than for fingernails. For more information read our article on yellow toenails.

Topical treatment products such as Funginix and Zetaclear are all natural formulations for the treatment of nail fungus infection and are generally considered safe. They are also considerably less expensive that oral anti fungal treatment or laser treatment (see points that follow).

Some of the oral anti-fungal medications available on prescription have been linked to side effects including liver damage. Although serious complications remain rare, your doctor may require a series of toxicity screening blood tests to ensure your liver is healthy prior to treatment, and remains so through the course.

For mild infections, and as a prevention strategy to keep healthy nails fungus-free, topical application of tea tree oil is a good option to consider.

A growing number of podiatrists are offering laser treatment for nail fungus infections. While the procedure has not been linked to serious side effects, the treatment is costly.

Onychomycosis – The medical term for nail fungus infections, derived from the Greek where Onycho means “pertaining to the nails” and mycosis means “a disease caused by a fungus”. It is estimated that approximately 6-10% of the adult population is affected – see prevalence studies below.

Tinea – A catch-all term for all fungal infections. When the infection affects the nail it is described as tinea unguium. “Unguium” is the Latin word for nails.

Ringworm – As with tine (above), this is another catch-all term of fungus infections. Ringworm of the nails describes fungal infections of the nails.

Dermatophyte – As explained in this article by the aafp, Dermatophyes are “fungi that require keratin for growth.” As we only have keratin protein (see next) in our skin, hair and nails, this is where the fungi are found.

Keratin – Keratin cells comprise the outermost layer of our skin, hair and nails.

Hyperkeratotic – An abnormal thickening of skin cells located in the outermost layer of the epidermis. The term “Hyperkeratotic debris” describes the overgrowth of dry flaky skin that can accumulate under the nails in people with Onychomycosis.

Trichophyton rubrum – A dermatophyte (see earlier) and one of the most common fungal organisms to infect the nails. Other dematophytes that can be involved with Onychomycosis include Trichophyton interdigitale, Epidermophyton floccosum, Trichophyton tonsurans and Microsporum gypseum.

Yeasts – Yeasts are single celled organisms and a type of fungus. The most commonly associated with infections that affect humans is Candida albicans. Candida spp. of yeast that can cause both Onychomycosis (specifically Candidal Onychomycosis – see below) as well as yeast infections.

Distal Lateral Sungungal Onychomycosis – The most common form, where the fungus invades from the free edge of the nail (the distal edge) and spreads towards the cuticle on the underside of the nail (refer to Nail Anatomy section below).

White Superficial Onychomycosis – The infection is more superficial in nature and forms white marks on the nail plate. It only accounts for around 1 in 10 of all fungus infections.

Proximal Subgungal Onychomycosis – Generally restricted to people who are immuno-compromised the fungus penetrates at the proximal end of the nail (near the cuticle).

Endonyx Onychomycosis – This occurs when the fungal organisms attack the nail plate but do not affect the nail bed.

Total Dystrophic Onychomycosis – Not really another form of Onychomycosis, this describes the total loss of the nail as a result of Onychomycosis and can be the end stage of the above forms of the disease. For more details read this medscape article on the progression and recurrence of Onychomycosis.

Candidal Onychomycosis – This form of the disease is the result of infection by Candida spp. rather than dermatophytes.

Undecylenic acid – Derived from castor oil, approved by FDA and used in popular nail fungus treatments such as Funginix (manufactured by The Sisquoc Healthcare Corporation) and Zetaclear (member of the Natural Products Association).

Tea Tree Oil – Derived from the plant Melaleuca alternifolia which is native to Australia. Tea Tree oil is often recommended as a companion treatment to other topical products and for prevention. It is often added as an ingredient to natural topical antifungal nail products.

Terbinafine – Marketed under the Brand names Lamisil (manufactured by Novartis Consumer Health) and Zabel, it is available as a topical cream against skin fungus infections or in oral form for the treatment of Onychomycosis.

Itraconazole – Often grouped together with other “azole” antifungals such as fluconazole or voriconazole, Intracomazole is a prescription anti fungal drug that is administered either orally or intravenously.

Griseofulvin – Administered orally for the treatment of skin and nail fungal infections.

Ciclopirox – This is a topical anti fungal medication, generally considered more effective when combined with oral medications. Ciclopirox is marketed under the brand name Penlac (manufactured by Sanofi.us)

Topical treatment – This refers to any medications that are applied externally to the affected nail(s).  See more on nail fungus treatment options.

Hepatotoxicity – A form of liver damage that is chemical induced. Studies have linked some oral drugs prescribed for Onychomycosis with increased risk of hepatotoxicity.

Leukonychia – White patches under the nail, most often caused by injury to the nail matrix. As nails grow slowly, there can be a long lag between he injury and the appearance of the white mark.

Onycholysis – A partial detachment or loosening of the fingernail or toenail from the nail bed.

Paronychia – An inflammation around the nail plate causing redness, swelling and pain. A pocket of puss can develop in severe cases. Paronychia can offer as a result of a material or fungal infection.

Onychia – Similar to paronychia (above) onychia describes the inflammation of the nail matrix and nail bed. Again this can result from fungal and bacterial infection.

Nail Anatomy Terms 

Distal edge of the nail – The free edge at the tip of the nail.

Lanula – the pale half moon shaped section at the back of the nail near the cuticle (see next)

Proximal fold – This is where the skin overlaps on itself at the base of the nail. The horney part of this is known as the cuticle (see next)

Cuticle or eponychium – This is an extension of the skin behind the nail.

Matrix – The matrix is located under the cuticle and is the place where new nail cells are formed, flattened and pushed forwards. It can be thought of as the nail growth center.

Subungal - This describes a position underneath the nail (the most common location of the fungus when it comes to Onychomycosis)

Nail plate – Made from hard layers of keratin this is a transparent structure that sits on the nail bed. The nail plate is continually being replaced by cells pushing forward from the nail matrix in a process that takes around 6 months for fingernails and 12-18 months for toenails.

Nail bed – This consists of shallow grooves and ridges that contain small blood vessels.

Hyponychium – This is where the nail plate detaches from the nail base at the tip of the nail. It is often where the fungus first invades.

Academic Reference Materials And Onychomycosis Prevalence Studies

A study by the International Journal Of Dermatology looking at the psychosocial implications of Onychomycosis. The potential of stigmatization and loss of quality of life is often ignored. The study demonstrates that the disease can have a negative impact on mental and social well-being.

Research by the Journal of European Academy Of Dermatology and Venererology focussed on identifying the different types of fungi that attack the nails.

Studies on prevalence rates of Onychomycosis carried out by:

• The British Journal Of Dermatology in Finland,
• In Spain, and
• By the US National Institute oF Health rates looking at Onychomycosis in Diabetic Neuropathic Patients.

Onychomycosis Diagnosis and Measurement – A collaborative study published by Pubmed.gov (part of the National Center for Biotechnology Information).

• Does it seem like you are getting nowhere with your nail fungus treatment?
• Are you fed up living with an ugly looking yellow toenail?
• Are you ready to start a treatment plan that works?
• Do you want to know the most important word in nail fungus treatment?

There are an estimated 35 million people in the US with a nail fungus infection (Onychomycosis). That’s about 1 in every 10 people.

Wonder why that number is so high?

Well, it’s because most people are not treating their infection effectively. And every person with an active infection is a carrier who can pass the condition to others, many of whom will also fail to treat their infection effectively.  And become carriers.  And so the cycle continues …

Using the right approach to treatment, anyone can cure their nails and get back on with their life.

Want to know the secret for effective nail fungus treatment? (it’s not what you think)

You probably think the answer lies in the particular brand of treatment that you use. You’re probably expecting to be told that Brand X is best or that Product Y is the right approach for you.

But that’s not what we’re going to focus on. Why?

Because after living with a nail fungus infection for five years and having tried dozens of different topical treatments, each one claiming to be better than the next, I can tell you one thing from my personal experience:

The most important factor that will determine your success is not the specific product that you use but your ability to stick to a regular application routine over several months.

The good news is that you can do all this in the privacy of your home. Most people don’t need to take prescription oral antifungals and run the risk of liver damage or undergo an invasive surgical procedure.  Topical treatments will work for most people,*** but you need to stick to a plan.

Here’s the ultimate treatment plan

• Choose a topical nail fungus product that contains a powerful antifungal ingredient. Funginix or Zetaclear are two good options.
• Prepare yourself mentally for the fact that you are not going to see any visible signs of improvement until at least 8 weeks have passed. This is key to managing your expectations and keeping your motivation up.
• Take a photo of your infected nail and put it aside. Don’t look at it again until two months has passed. (This is important).
• Tie a ribbon around your toothbrush. The ribbon is there to remind you to apply your nail fungus treatment every time you pick up your toothbrush. For most people this will ensure a twice daily application.
• Buy a coarse nail file to debride the nail layers over the fungus. Your goal is to open up the fungus to treatment, allowing the topical antifungal to penetrate as deeply as possible.
• Make sure you follow the product instructions that come with the product.
• After 8 weeks have passed take another photo and compare it to your previous one.

If you have been consistent with your treatment you should see some improvement. Then keep going.

That’s it. Simple really.

The hardest part of nail fungus treatment is keeping going even if you don’t see visible signs of improvement. Although tracking your progress is important, and will help with motivation, you should only do this every two months.

I found it helpful to think of it this way: The treatment that you apply today will only help you in two months time.

So what’s the most important word in nail fungus treatment? Consistency.

Not exciting and not sexy.

But unfortunately there are no quick fixes when it comes to nail fungus infection. For most people the fungus lies underneath the nail so it simply takes time for the antifungal medication to reach it and destroy it.

Good luck on your journey to becoming fungus free.

***Of course if you have a very severe infection with many nails affected or your nails are starting to distort and lift off the nail bed it makes sense to speak with a qualified medical professional about your condition.  FungusFacts.com is not a doctor and information provided here cannot substitute for the advice of a medical professional.

The oil has a long history of medicinal uses.  In fact it is thought that the agent Greek physician Hippocrates used the oil as an antiseptic and the Romans used the leaves to treat skin sores and for muscle relief. Recent years have seen an explosion of interest in the use of oregano oil with  alternative health practitioners and clinical nutritionists recommending the oil to boost the immune system, improve digestion, combat fungal disorders and to maintain general health.  The oil is still popular in Greece where an oregano infusion is used to treat colds and stomach upsets.

Even though long term, well-controlled human studies have not been carried out on the health effects of the oil, it’s hard to overlook the mountain of positive anecdotal feedback about its uses.

The active ingredients in oregano oil include:

• Carvacrol (a natural antimicrobial and antioxidant)
• Thymol (a natural antimicrobial, fungicide and antiseptic)
• Rosmarinic Acid (a natural antihistamine, antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory)
• Terpenes (a natural anti-inflammatory)

This list of properties is impressive, but the health benefits will depend on the bio-availability of these ingredients following digestion. Having said that, there does seem to be clear evidence of the antimicrobial actions of oregano constituents in vitro. In particular the oil is effective at suppressing the growth of bacteria, yeast (including against Candida albicans), parasites and some fungi.  Furthermore there is “limited but suggestive” evidence that oregano component can suppress inflammation, which in turn is the basis for its use as a herb remedy for coughs, asthma, acne and gum disease.

Side effects and precautions

Oil or oregano is generally well tolerated if recommended dosage is not exceeded.  The oil is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding and should only be administered to children under supervision from a health care practitioners.  Oregano belongs to the same family as basil, sage, mint, rosemary and time so should be avoided by people allergic to these plants.  The oil should not be applied topically to mucous membranes at greater that 1% concentration.

Like all nail fungus treatments, the successful elimination of the infection depends a great deal on consistent application of the product over several weeks and months.

How does Fungi Nail work?

Fungi Nail does not work by penetrating the nail, but by attacking the fungus that exists in the skin around the nail. As the nail grows out, so too will the fungus. To apply Fungi Nail, follows the steps set out below:

1. Clean the affected area carefully with soap and water (consider using an antifungal soap for this).
2. Dry toenails, and the skin surrounding them thoroughly.
3. Trim and file the toenails back as far as possible.
4. Apply Fungi Nail antifungal solution at least twice each day using the brush applicator.  The product is designed for application around the nail: Over the cuticle, on either side of the nail and underneath the nail tip (see diagram below).
5. Let the product dry for at least 10 minutes before putting on shoes and socks.

With mild infections you should notice a healthy nail starting to emerge from under the cuticle after 4-8 weeks.  For severe infections, this may take longer.  Continue applying Fungi Nail until the new, healthy nail has completely grown out – a process that can take months.

Prepare yourself mentally for a long treatment course. You can’t control exactly how long it will take for your fungus infection to disappear, but you can control how consistent you are at applying the antifungal solution – so concentrate on that.

Wear well-fitted and well-ventilated shoes during treatment, remembering to change socks daily (more often if you exercise and your socks become damp from perspiration). It’s preferable not to wear nail polish while you are undergoing treatment so that your nails are able to “breathe” as much as possible.

Fungi Nail Brand reviews

Pros:

• Established product, developed over 25 years ago.
• Excellent safety profile.
• Contains Undecylenic acid, a proven antifungal medication.
• New “Pen” applicator has been introduced designed to help consumers apply the right amount of product where it is needed, without any mess or spills. See details.
• Available without prescription.

Cons:

• Persistence and consistency is needed.  Don’t expect a magic, immediate solution (unfortunately they don’t exist when it comes to nail fungus infections).
• As the treatment is being applied “around” the nail and is not designed to penetrate it, it is vital to ensure that you continue treatment for a whole nail growth cycle.

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But an effective delivery method is just one factor when choosing a probiotic.  There are three others.  See below:

1. The health claims made for the bacterial strains included in the probiotic are scientifically supported (Lactobacillus and Bifidobactieium strains are the most recommended).
2. A high culture count per dosage (this is normally measured as Colony forming units or CFUs. Look for at least 1 billion CFUs)
3. Shelf stable to ensure potency up to the expiry date.
4. Effective delivery method (as discussed, pearls probiotics provide a delayed release method).

	Acidophilus Pearls A best selling probiotic, and one of the earliest to be marketed as a “pearl probiotic”. The supplement contains 1 billion active cultures and a mix of probiotic strains including Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Bifidobacterium Longum strains. These are some of the most studied probiotic strains and also occur naturally in the body and in live yogurt. Acidophilus pearls have been formatted to help improve digestive function. The pearl delivery method is shelf-stable and protects the bacteria from harmful stomach acid and pancreatic bile. View Product
	Integrative Therapeutics Probiotic Pearls Marketed as “the smarter probiotic” this is a multi-strain probiotic also containing Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Bifidobacterium Longum to help maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora. Each tiny pearl-shaped capsule contains 1 billion CFUs protected from heat, moisture and stomach acids.  The health benefits of lactic acid producing bacteria such as L. acidophilus and B.longum are backed by over 75 years of published research. The recommended dosage is one capsule daily to improve digestive health, boost the immune system and support healthy skin.  No refrigeration required. View Product
	Natrol BioBeads Probiotic Acidophilus Beads… pearls it all comes down to a delivery system that ensures viability of the bacteria.  These Biobeads are designed to provide three layers of protection: 1) A targeted release technology ensures that the probiotic is shelf stable for 18 months. 2) the bead passes intact through the acidic stomach environments. 3) The internal layer breaks down releasing 2.6 billion CFU’s of probiotic bacteria.  No refrigeration needed.  Perfect for easing digestive problems associated with travel. View Product

Not all probiotic pearls (or any probiotic for that matter) are made equal

The video below from Brenda Watson provides guidance on choosing the right probiotics for your needs.

How probiotics contribute to health

Literally trillions of bacteria reside in your digestive tract, including over 1000 different strains. Here they assist in digestion, boost the immune systems, help in the manufacture of needed vitamins, manage intestinal inflammations, and help fight the growth of harmful bacteria and yeast (see our article on probiotics for yeast infection).

Unfortunately a poor diet, stress, travel, antibiotic use and exposure to illness can reduce these populations of friendly bacteria which can lead to intestinal issues such as diarrhea and constipation as well as the growth of pathogenic microbes. Taking a regular probiotic supplement will help in keeping a balanced intestinal environment and in so doing contribute to overall health and well-being.

The cracks typically develop due to the collection of moisture (saliva) at the corners of the mouth.  This encourages invasion by the Candida albicans yeast or by bacteria and a resulting infection.  It is more prevalent in people who lick their lips often, suck their fingers or breathe through the mouth.

Age-related changes to the architecture of the mouth (for example after the loss of teeth) and poorly fitting dentures can cause an over-closure of the mouth, thus increasing the risk.  It is also thought that people who have a vitamin B, iron or zinc deficiency are more susceptible.  Unlike cold sores, which are caused by a type of herpes virus, angular cheilitis is generally not contagious.

Managing angular cheilitis symptoms

• Avoid eating spicy or acidic foods or drinks as this will irritate the cracked corners of the mouuth
• Some mouthwashes and toothpastes may irritate the skin, so stick to mild and sensitive brands.
• Avoid lipsticks that increase the dryness as this can make the cracking worse.
• Using a lib balm will help relieve the symptoms and soothe the discomfort but will do little to remove whatever is causing the inflammation (usually a yeast or bacterial infection – see next section on treatment).

Conventional treatment for angular cheilitis

For minor yeast infections, an over the counter topical antifungal cream may be enough to treat the condition.  (Note we have a section of this website dedicated to providing information on how to treat yeast infection). If the inflammation is the result of a bacterial infection (less common), applying an antiseptic cream can be effective.

Bear in mind that if mechanical predisposing factors are present (for example ill-fitting dentures), these should be changed.  A course of oral iron and vitamin B supllmenets is also recommended.

Alternative natural treatments – A remarkably effective angular cheilitis home remedy

Some sufferers find that topical treatments for cracked corners of the mouth only mask the symptoms of angular cheilitis and do not eliminate the cause.  Recurrent infections are common and the disease can become chronic in nature.

Far better to tackle the “internal angular cheilitis environment” as explained in this step-by-step program by Katherine Sage, a former angular cheilitis sufferer.

Her program takes 2 simple ingredients that most people have in their home and ensures a quick (usually overnight) and permanent cure. If you suffer from this condition we think you’ll like what she has to say. Click here for the details.

For more information have a look at this Angular cheilitis treatment FAQ page.

How to treat male yeast infection

	Yeastrol Yeastrol offers multiple symptom relief for male yeast infections. It combines 12 ingredients which will address the itching, rash and discomfort of the infection. It is a spray so there is no need to deal with messy creams. Yeastrol is 100% natural and safe and has no known drug interactions. The formulation takes into account the particular yeast infection symptoms that affect men. Click for full review.
	Monistat antifungal cream Monistat cream contains a well known antifungal agent – Miconazole Nitrate – and is applied topically to the affected area. Although it has been designed to address vaginal yeast infections, it is also effective for male yeast infection treatment. Apply the cream twice daily for a week. It is available without prescription. If you experience a severe burning sensation and a serious skin irritation, stop using the cream and consult your doctor for advice. Click for full review.
	Acidophilus Pearls Acidophilus pearls is one of the best selling probiotics. It contains the bacterial strains Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Bifidobacterium Longum which are commonly found in yogurt and help re-balance the natural gut flora. Lactobacillus species in particular have been shown to play a role in eliminating Candida and are often recommended as probiotics for yeast infection. The live bacteria are enclosed within a protective “pearl”. Click for full review.

Other considerations

If your partner also has the symptoms of yeast infection they should also seek treatment as you may be reinfecting each other. Candida albicans is a type of fungus and, like all fungal organisms, it grows in moist environments . So it is important to keep your penis as dry as possible at all times. Only wear loose fitting underwear made from natural fibers such as cotton.

The above products are for treatments that are available without a prescription from your doctor. But it is important to bear in mind that for severe and chronic cases of male yeast infection you should book an appointment with your doctor as prescription drugs may be needed. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying the treatment.

For the best treatment for athletes foot it’s worth considering a three-pronged approach. Staring from left to right:

Antifungal cream or spray
Start with an antifungal cream such as Lotrimin cream – thought by many to be the best athletes foot cream. If you prefer not to touch the infected skin with your hands or you have difficulty reaching your feet then use an antifungal spray. We like Lamisil spray as it’s one of the few prescription strength athletes foot cures available as a spray.

Antifungal powder
Then sprinkle some powder into the shoes and socks that you wear most often. Here are a selection of antifungal powders widely used for foot fungus treatment.

Antifungal soap
Use an antifungal soap when washing your feet (remembering to dry the skin between the toes carefully afterward). Here’s a selection of the most popular antifungal soap brands to get rid of athletes foot fungus.

You may not need to use all three approaches, often just a cream or spray will do. But if you are susceptible to athletes foot and experience repeated infections, it’s worth following a more integrated approach combining a cream or spray with a powder and an antifungal soap.

Here are some additional tips for an effective treatment for athletes foot:

• The first thing to realize is that athletes foot is not eliminated when symptoms disappear. You should continue to treat for a full course (often 1 or 2 weeks) even when you are no longer experiencing any symptoms. Otherwise you will be prone to recurrent and repeated infections.
• Remember also that the same fungus can also cause other infections on other parts of the body – see these skin fungus pictures for more details – so you want to eliminate the infection completely and avoid cross-infections.
• Always dry your feet well after bathing, using a separate towel for your feet, and don’t wear the same shoes and socks every day.
• Make sure you change your socks at least once a day – more if you are prone to sweating – and wash them on a hot cycle (60 Centigrade or 140 Fahrenheit).
• Don’t wear socks made from synthetic materials that are not well ventilated.
• Protect your feet in public environments where floors are damp as this is how the infection often spreads from person to person. Put on rubber flip flops when using public changing rooms or showers.