If your child is suffering with toenail fungus, it is imperative to take action now.
Toenail fungus in children is a nasty business to deal with. One of the first things you will want to do is to make sure that you are actually dealing with a fungal infection. This might take a trip to your family physician, but knowing what you are treating can help you determine the right course of action.
Finding a plan for toenail fungus in children requires an understanding of your options. You also need to know the effectiveness of each treatment plan.
Signs of Toenail Fungus in Children
The first sign that your child might have a nail fungus infection is the appearance of a yellow or white spot under the tip of the toenail. As the infection continues, the nail will thicken and discolor. Infected toenails separate from the nail bed causing pain and discomfort.
Treatment Options for Toenail Fungus
• Laser Treatment: Clear Toes Clinic offers laser treatment. It is more than 90% effective in killing the fungus. This painless procedure is safe and effective, while providing immediate relief and long-term results.
• Topical Medication: Topical treatments are fairly inexpensive and easy to apply. However, typical treatment times often range from 2 to 6 months. While many products are available over the counter, many have a very limited effect.
In fact, some of the leading topical treatments offer success rates of approximately 70%. Your child might spend months dealing with a nail infection, only to be disappointed that the treatment didn’t work.
• Oral Medication: Oral anti-fungal medications are more effective than topical creams and medications. But they can have side effects, such as liver damage or skin rashes. This type of treatment generally requires 6 to 12 weeks of medication. Use caution, especially with children.
• Nail Lacquer: Use a nail lacquer in the infected area. Paint the lacquer on the nail every day for a week, followed by wiping the area with alcohol, then beginning the process all over again. The treatment plan can go on for a year or more with only an approximate 10% success rate.
• Natural Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is a natural disinfectant and can be purchased at most health food stores. The tea tree oil needs to be applied to the infected area, two times per day for a minimum of two months.
• Surgical Removal of the Infected Nail: Some people choose to have the nail removed, when nothing else works. A podiatrist can remove the entire nail, leaving the nail bed exposed. This helps topical medications to be more effective.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Many people get rid of toenail fungus by soaking their feet in a mixture of apple cider vinegar. This involves a foot soak of 20 minutes each night. Next, a thorough drying and the application of cotton balls soaked in the vinegar. This may help rid you or your child of the fungal infection within a matter of weeks.
• Vicks VapoRub: Apply Vicks VapoRub into the affected area and cover with a bandage. Now seal with duct tape. Leave on for 24 hours, remove the bandages and tape. Clean and dry the nails completely. Repeat procedure until the nail grows back, fungus free.
Preventing Future Infections
Toenail fungus in children can be difficult to treat, but patience and persistence can bring about a solution.
To prevent future problems, pay close attention to proper foot care. Wear loose shoes and keep the feet dry. Protect them from infection at the gym and public swimming pools by wearing foot coverings when possible.
