Can topical medications for treating nail fungus effectively cure nail fungus?
Disease description:
I recently developed a fungal nail infection (onychomycosis), and the entire nail looks really unsightly. I went to the pharmacy and bought some topical medications for treating fungal nails. Will applying these creams be effective? Can they actually cure the condition?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
In appropriate use, topical medications for treating onychomycosis (gray nail) can usually cure the condition, although the specific effectiveness depends on the severity of the infection.
For mild to moderate cases of onychomycosis, topical antifungal creams or ointments may be effective. These medications work by inhibiting fungal growth and reproduction, thereby alleviating symptoms and gradually restoring nail health. Patients should follow medical guidance when using topical treatments to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes.
However, for severe or long-standing cases of onychomycosis, topical ointments alone may not achieve satisfactory results. In such situations, oral antifungal medications may be more effective. Oral drugs act systemically against fungi, allowing better penetration into deeper layers of the nail plate. However, they may also cause certain side effects, such as abnormal liver function, and therefore must be used under medical supervision.
During treatment, patients should also maintain proper personal hygiene and nail care, such as keeping feet dry, changing socks regularly, and avoiding tight-fitting shoes, to reduce the chances of fungal growth.
