How Can I Identify and Treat a Fungal Infection in My Nails?

A fungal nail infection, or onychomycosis, often changes the look of your nail. You might notice that the nail turns yellow, brown, or white, and it might get thick or start to crumble. These are signs that the fungus has taken hold. To be sure it is a fungal infection, a doctor may take a tiny sample of the nail for testing. When it comes to treating the infection, the choice depends on how severe it is. For milder cases, doctors usually recommend a topical antifungal treatment. This medicine comes as a cream, solution, or nail lacquer that you put on your nail to kill the fungus. If the infection is deeper or more extensive, an oral antifungal medication (taken as a pill) might be needed to help fight the fungus from inside your body. Along with these treatments, keeping your nails clean and dry is important because fungus loves damp places. Always follow your doctor's instructions and be patient, as fungal nail infections can take several months to fully clear up.