Nail Fungus Treatment Reviews

Nail fungus is a fungal infection that affects finger and toenails. The medical terminology for nail fungus is onychomycosis. There are millions of people who silently suffer from this condition. A whopping 35 million of America's population suffer from nail fungus. Men seem to be more prone to this condition than women. Besides, this condition is known to run in families. There are several causes of nail fungus such as genetic predisposition, long hours in water, poor hygiene, etc. Whatever the underlying cause may be, it is imperative to treat nail fungus. Nail fungus begins as a yellow spot underneath the nail. If left untreated it can spread throughout the nail and even to other nails. You may also transmit the infection to other people.

Over the Counter Nail Fungus Treatment

Over the counter nail fungus treatments are mostly available as topical creams and sprays. ZetaClear is the most popular OTC treatment for nail fungus. It has been touted as the best topical treatment in almost all reviews. The manufacturers claim that it is entirely formulated using natural ingredients like tea tree oil, jojoba oil and almond oil. The formula penetrates deep in the nail and kills the fungus present. It also increases the body's natural immunity to fight the fungal infection. It comes with an applicator brush, which makes the application very convenient. The effects of the treatment can be seen within 2 weeks of applying it. The yellowing, dirty nail outgrows into a healthy looking nail. However, it is important to complete the full course of treatment, until the fungus completely disappears. If not, the fungus may attack the new healthy nail and infect it as well.

Nail-Rx is another topical treatment which is formulated on the similar lines of ZetaClear with tea tree oil, lemon grass and lavender as main antifungal ingredients. Nail-Rx shows effects within 3 weeks of application. Along with fungus, it also kills other harmful bacteria and microorganisms. It promotes healthy growth of the new nail. Nail-Rx is more expensive than ZetaClear. The problem with topical treatments is that as soon as you stop using them, the fungus reappears. These treatments are fine for mild to moderate forms of nail fungus.

Oral Nail Fungus Treatment

Oral medications are by far considered as the most effective treatment against nail fungus. These nail fungus medications uproot the infection and promote natural healthy nail growth. These medications can only be obtained by producing a valid medical prescription. Fluconazole (Diflucan), Itraconazole (Sporanox) and Terbinafine (Lamisil) are some of the most popular oral treatments for nail fungus. However, these medications are known to induce undesirable side effects in the body. Lamisil, in particular is associated with fatal liver problems. These medications should be taken under medical supervision only. Although, severe forms of fungal infections can be treated by these medications, they may not work against all fungi. Candida albicans, for instance, cannot be destroyed with oral medications.

Laser Treatment for Nail Fungus

Laser treatment can be considered as an ultimate option for curing nail fungus. The laser beam is directed on the fungus using a hand held device. The heat generated by the laser vaporizes the fungus, thereby killing it. During the first session itself, 80% of the fungus is exterminated. Multiples sessions are required as the nail resumes its normal growth after the first session. This treatment option is costly (USD 1000 - USD 4000 per session) and is recommended only in cases of severe fungal infection.

Many people also trust home remedies to get rid of this infection. While some of them work, others may need to be applied as supplements with OTC medications.