5 Over-Stated Myths About Toenail Fungus Debunked

Myth 1:

Without Going To The Doctor, Toenail Fungus Can Be Cured

People make a mistake here when they are suffering with Toenail fungus, they don’t visit the doctor. It should the first priority to consult a doctor before deciding anything else.

While over-counter-products and home remedies can be efficient at times but not always. First you should know about the problem then the proper medication is to be given. Visiting the doctor gives proper assessment of the nails, tissues and a suitable intervention plan is guided comprising of topical products, oral medication and additional procedures, such as laser therapy, surgical ablation or removal.

Myth 2:

A Hygienic Person Cannot Have Toenail Fungal Infection

It cannot be denied that, maintaining a proper hygiene prevents toenail fungus. However this is true only to a certain extent. In real scenario, people have been affected with this fungal infection even after proper care.

The occurrence of toenail infection isn’t dependent upon only hygiene factor. There are lot many more factors that count such as recent injuries, damage at the level of the nail bed or pre-existing conditions, as diabetes or any other condition affecting the immune system. So if you get any symptoms of toenail fungus, immediately visit a doctor.

Myth3:

Toenail Fungus is not contagious

There is an ongoing myth among people that toenail fungus isn’t contagious and does not communicate. In reality, it is highly contagious and can happen to people. If you are sharing objects of personal hygiene, it is more likely to spread. Visiting public places, such as swimming pools, gyms etc where there are more chances of spread of this fungal infection.

A moisture bed is the most appropriate breeding environment for these fungi to thrive and multiply. Avoid sharing personal hygiene accessory with other people. Do not walk barefoot in public places and, whenever you are getting a pedicure, enquire for sanitised tools, ensuring healthy environment.

Myth 4:

Toenail fungal infections can be treated with antibiotics

This is a common misconception, with many people who suffer from such infections visiting the doctor and asking for antibiotic treatment. Toenail fungus can be treated with antifungal medication, whether topical or oral, but not with antibiotics, as these are meant for bacterial infections.

In recommending a particular antifungal treatment, the doctor will take into consideration pre-existing conditions, such as liver disease. He/she will also monitor your health status from a close distance, as antifungal medication is known to cause a number of side-effects.

Myth 5:

Fungal infections affect fingernails in an equal percentage

Fingernails do not get fungal infections as soon as the toenails. This is so because fingernails are kept in the open air more often, staying dry and thus protected against such kind of infections.

On the other hand, the toes are often kept inside the shoes, in a dark and moist environment, which the fungus loves. Add to that ill-fitting footwear and you have the perfect environment for a toenail fungal infection. So, this is only a myth, as toenail fungal infections are far more common than the fingernails.

Word of advice

When reading about toenail fungus, do not believe just any piece of information you come across. Instead, perform a thorough research and verify the respective information, from at least three sources. When you visit the doctor, make sure to ask him/her all the questions you want, as he/she is best qualified to clarify matters.