What is a toenail fungus? And how can you treat it?

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Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that affects the toenails. It is caused by various types of fungi, typically dermatophytes, which thrive in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes and socks.

Toenail fungus usually begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of the toenail. As the fungus spreads deeper into the nail, it can cause the nail to become thickened, discolored, brittle, and crumbly. In some cases, it may cause pain and discomfort, especially when wearing shoes or walking.

Factors that increase the risk of developing toenail fungus include:

  1. Warm and moist environments: Fungi thrive in warm, damp places such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers.
  2. Injury to the nail: Trauma to the nail bed or surrounding skin can create an entry point for fungi to invade.
  3. Poor circulation: Conditions that reduce blood flow to the feet, such as diabetes or peripheral vascular disease, can increase the risk of toenail fungus.
  4. Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to fungal infections.
  5. Older age: As people age, their nails tend to grow more slowly and become thicker, making them more susceptible to infection.

Treatment for toenail fungus may include topical antifungal medications, oral antifungal medications, or a combination of both. In some cases, the infected portion of the nail may need to be removed surgically. It’s essential to practice good foot hygiene and keep your feet clean and dry to help prevent toenail fungus

Jublia (efinaconazole) 10% is a topical prescription medication used to treat toenail fungus (onychomycosis). It belongs to a class of antifungal drugs known as azoles and works by inhibiting the growth of the fungus responsible for the infection.

Jublia is applied directly to the affected toenails once daily. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the application method and duration of treatment, which may take as far as 48 weeks to complete. Recurrence is a common problem with onychomycosis

Jublia has been shown to be effective in clinical trials for treating mild to moderate cases of toenail fungus. However, its effectiveness may vary from person to person, and it may take several months of continuous use to see improvement in the appearance of the affected nails.

It’s important to note that Jublia, like any medication, may not work for everyone. Some individuals may require alternative treatments such as oral antifungal medications or a combination of therapies for more severe cases of toenail fungus.