How to treat thickened and yellow toenails?
Disease description:
Recently, my toenails have been looking thick and yellow. Could this be an infection? I would like to know how to treat thickened, yellow toenails.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Thickened and yellow toenails are commonly seen in onychomycosis (commonly known as ringworm of the nail) or nail dystrophy. The following treatment methods are recommended:
1. Medication: Oral antifungal medications such as itraconazole and terbinafine may be taken. These medications need to be taken continuously for several months and require liver function monitoring under a doctor's guidance. Topical treatments such as amorolfine or ciclopirox nail lacquers can also be used. Before applying the medication, the nails should be filed down, smoothed, and thinned as much as possible to enhance drug penetration.
2. Physical therapy: For thicker nail plates, laser therapy or microwave therapy can be used to destroy the fungi through thermal effects and promote the nail plate to return to normal. In addition, partial surgical removal of the infected nail plate can also be considered to accelerate the healing process.
3. Lifestyle adjustments: Maintain clean and hygienic feet, change shoes and socks regularly, and avoid moist environments to reduce fungal growth. Warm water foot soaks, trimming nails short, and thinning the nails with a file can also help with medication application and absorption.
4. Regular follow-up: During treatment, regular clinic visits are recommended to monitor changes in the nail plate and adjust the treatment plan according to the condition. Regular follow-ups are also necessary after recovery to prevent recurrence.
