What is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus is an infection that usually occurs on the fingertips or toenails. The fungus penetrates under and around the nail, changing the color, shape and thickness of the nail. The main symptoms of nail fungus include yellowing, thickening, brittleness and deformation of the nail over time. The fungal infection can also spread to the skin around the nail and irritate the infected area. This infection usually starts when microorganisms come into contact with the skin or nail. Nail fungus can spread through factors such as poor personal hygiene, warm and humid environments or a weak immune system.
What is the Treatment for Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus treatment can vary depending on the severity and type of infection. It is usually treated with antifungal medications, creams or gels. Depending on the depth of the nail fungus, doctors may also recommend oral antifungal medications. The treatment process can last several weeks or months depending on the type of fungus and the extent of the infection. In addition, cutting, cleaning and regular care of the nail can increase the effectiveness of the treatment. In some cases, laser treatment or surgery may also be required for nail fungus treatment. It is important to be patient during the treatment process and follow expert advice.
How to Treat Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus usually clears up within a few weeks after starting treatment. The treatment process varies depending on the severity of the infection. Treatment with antifungal medications and creams can usually last 4 to 6 weeks. With these treatments, the fungus that forms in the nail disappears over time. However, continuing treatment regularly can speed up recovery and prevent the infection from recurring. It can take several months for nail fungus to completely clear up, because it takes time for the nail to grow back. During the treatment process, maintaining clean and dry nails can help prevent the fungus from recurring.
What is Good for Nail Fungus?
There are natural and medical treatments that are good for nail fungus. Antifungal medications and creams are one of the most effective methods for treating fungus. Apart from this, natural products such as tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar can also help treat nail fungus. Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and helps control fungal infections. In addition, foods with antifungal properties such as garlic can also speed up the healing of nail fungus. Keeping the nail clean and dry can help prevent the spread of fungus. It is possible to get rid of nail fungus with regular hygiene and the right treatment.
What Causes Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus is usually caused by a type of fungus called dermatophytes. When the fungus gets under or around the nail, the infection begins. The most common causes of nail fungus include warm and humid environments, a weak immune system, poor personal hygiene, keeping the feet closed for long periods of time, and injuries to the toenails. In addition, certain diseases, such as diabetes, can predispose to nail fungus. Frequently leaving feet wet, sharing a bathroom or pool, can also cause the fungus to spread. With proper treatment and hygiene, nail fungus can be treated and prevented from reoccurring.
What are the symptoms of nail fungus?
Nail fungus symptoms usually manifest themselves with changes in the color of the nail, thickening and deformities. The most common symptoms include yellowing or whitening of the nail, inflammation around the nail, brittleness, thinning or thickening of the nail. Other symptoms may include roughness, breakage or a bad smell coming from under the nail. These symptoms can worsen over time, especially if the nail fungus is left untreated, it can lead to deformation of the nail. In addition, pain and discomfort may be felt as the fungal infection progresses.
What are the causes of nail fungus?
The main causes of nail fungus include warm and humid environments, a weak immune system, genetic predisposition, and poor foot hygiene. Fungi usually thrive in humid and hot environments, so people who wear tight shoes or have problems with sweating are at higher risk of nail fungus. Health issues such as diabetes, poor blood circulation, and aging can also predispose to nail fungus. Foot injuries or skin damage around the nail can make it easier for fungus to enter the nail. Walking barefoot in places like shared bathrooms or swimming pools can also cause the fungus to spread.
What are the Nail Fungus Treatment Methods?
There are various methods for treating nail fungus. Treatment is usually done with antifungal medications and creams. Oral antifungal medications are used for deeper infections and can usually last 3 to 6 months. Topical antifungal creams or varnishes are effective in milder cases and are applied directly to the nail. Laser treatment is also a method used in the treatment of nail fungus in recent years. This treatment aims to destroy the fungal infection using laser beams. Physical cleaning of the nail, sometimes surgical intervention or removal of a portion of the nail may also be necessary. Patience is important during the treatment process, because nail renewal can take a long time.
Things to Consider for Nail Fungus Treatment at Home
Some natural methods can be used to treat nail fungus at home, but they should not replace professional treatments. Tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar are common natural treatment options for treating fungus. Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and can help prevent the spread of fungus. Apple cider vinegar can also prevent fungus from growing on the skin. During the home treatment process, it is important to always keep the nail dry and clean. In addition, if antifungal medications or creams are used, they should be applied according to the doctor’s recommendations. Hygiene rules should be followed throughout the treatment process and excessive pressure should not be applied to the nail.
Choosing the Right Shoes to Deal with Nail Fungus
An important step in dealing with nail fungus is choosing the right shoes. Tight, narrow and sweaty shoes can cause the fungus to spread and reoccur. To treat nail fungus, comfortable and wide shoes that provide ventilation should be preferred. Shoes made of leather or breathable fabrics prevent the feet from getting wet and allow the skin to breathe. In addition, changing socks frequently and keeping the feet dry is also an important step. Shoes should always be kept dry and clean, and antifungal sprays or powders should be used when necessary. This can help speed up the treatment process and prevent the fungus from reoccurring.
Does Nail Fungus Reoccur? Ways to Prevent It from Reoccurring
There is a risk of recurrence after nail fungus treatment, especially if treatment is not continued regularly or hygiene rules are not followed. Since fungus can develop rapidly in moist and warm environments on the skin, the probability of recurrence is high. To prevent recurrence, nail fungus treatment should be completed and the skin should be kept clean and dry regularly. In addition, treatment should not be interrupted before the antifungal drugs used during the treatment process are finished. The spread of fungus can be prevented by changing shoes and socks frequently. Walking barefoot in common areas should be avoided and personal hygiene rules should be followed.
How Long Does Nail Fungus Treatment Take?
The duration of treatment for nail fungus varies depending on the severity of the infection and the treatment method used. In general, fungal treatment can take 3 to 6 months because it is a long process for the nail to completely regenerate and become healthy. Treatment is done with antifungal medications, creams or laser treatment, and regular follow-up is important during the treatment period. Patience is required for the nail to heal because the normal growth process of the nail can take several months. Proper continuation of treatment ensures successful results.
Differences Between Toenail Fungus and Fingernail Fungus
The biggest difference between toenail fungus and fingernail fungus is the speed at which the infection spreads. Toenail fungus is more common on the feet because the feet are usually in closed, moist, and sweaty environments for longer periods of time. Fingernail fungus is generally less common and is usually seen in people who are not exposed to environmental factors. Additionally, toenail fungal infections can be detected later and can last longer if left untreated. Both types require antifungal treatment, but toenail treatment usually takes longer.
What Happens If Nail Fungus Is Not Treated?
If nail fungus is left untreated, the infection can progress and compromise the structural integrity of the nail. The infection changes the color of the nail, thickens it, and causes it to break. In addition, the skin under the nail can become infected, which can lead to more serious health problems. If left untreated, the nail can fall off or become deformed. Over time, the fungus can spread to a larger area and infect other nails. Skin infections, pain, and discomfort can also occur. Early treatment can prevent such complications.
How to Reduce the Risk of Nail Fungus in Gyms and Swimming Pools?
Gyms and swimming pools are common areas where nail fungus can spread because the moist environments in these places are conducive to the growth of fungi. To reduce the risk of nail fungus, it is important to avoid walking barefoot in these areas. Wearing slippers in pool and shower areas can help prevent the spread of fungal infections. In addition, personal hygiene rules should be followed in these areas; hands and feet should be cleaned and dried regularly. Gym equipment and personal items that enter pools should be cleaned and sterilized to prevent the spread of infections.
Nail Fungus Treatment Prices 2025
Nail fungus treatment prices in 2025 may vary depending on the area treated, the treatment method used, and the clinic services. Antifungal medications and creams are generally more affordable, and the treatment process may vary depending on personal preferences. However, more advanced treatment options such as laser treatment are generally more expensive. As of 2025, nail fungus treatment prices may range between 500 TL and 3000 TL on average. Before starting treatment, it is important to get clear information about the price by consulting a clinic or specialist.