"Fungus Under the Toenail – What It Is and How to Remove It"

"Fungus Under the Toenail – What It Is and How to Remove It"


Fungus Under the Toenail – What It Is and How to Remove It

Keywords: fungus under toenail, how to remove toenail fungus, nail fungus treatment

If you’ve noticed a yellowish, thick, or crumbly toenail, chances are you’re dealing with fungus under the toenail — also known as onychomycosis. It’s more common than you might think, especially in humid climates like Pakistan.

In this blog, we’ll explain what causes toenail fungus, how to identify it, and most importantly — how to remove it effectively.

🦠 What Is Fungus Under the Toenail?

Toenail fungus is a fungal infection that gets under your nail plate and lives in the nail bed. Over time, the nail becomes:

  • Yellow or brown

  • Thickened or brittle

  • Separated from the nail bed

  • Sometimes painful or foul-smelling

This fungus loves warm, damp places — like sweaty shoes or moist socks.

❓ How Do You Get Toenail Fungus?

You can catch it from:

  • Public showers, swimming pools, or mosques

  • Wearing the same shoes daily without airing them out

  • Not drying your feet properly after bathing

  • Sharing nail clippers or foot files

Fungus can enter through even a tiny cut or crack near your nail.

🔍 Signs You Have Toenail Fungus

  • White, yellow, or brown spots under the nail

  • Nail becomes thicker than usual

  • Nail starts lifting from the skin

  • Crumbling or rough nail edges

  • Mild discomfort or pressure in shoes

🧴 How to Remove Toenail Fungus – Treatment Options

1. Over-the-Counter Anti-Fungal Creams

Creams or ointments with clotrimazole or terbinafine are a good first step. Apply after cleaning and drying your feet.

2. Prescription Treatments

If the fungus is stubborn or severe, doctors may prescribe oral medications like Itraconazole or Fluconazole. These work from the inside out.

3. Laser Therapy (Advanced Cases)

Some dermatologists offer laser treatment to kill the fungus without damaging the nail.

4. Home Remedies (Early Stage)

  • Tea tree oil (natural antifungal)

  • Apple cider vinegar soaks

  • Baking soda and water paste
    ⚠️ These take time and are not effective for all cases.

🧼 Preventing Fungus from Coming Back

  • Keep feet clean and dry

  • Change socks daily

  • Wear breathable shoes and alternate pairs

  • Don’t walk barefoot in public places

  • Disinfect nail tools and don’t share them

⏱️ How Long Does It Take to Heal?

Toenail fungus can take weeks to months to fully go away, depending on the severity. The infected part of the nail has to grow out, so patience is key.

➡️ Pro tip: Even if the nail looks better, continue treatment for at least 2–3 more weeks to make sure the fungus is gone for good.

🧠 Final Thoughts

Fungus under the toenail is treatable, but it requires early action, consistency, and sometimes a visit to the dermatologist. Ignoring it will only let it spread and worsen.

Don’t wait for it to go away on its own. Whether you choose home remedies, creams, or medication, the key is to start now and stick to the routine.


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