How To Know If Toenail Fungus Is Dying

A toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common nail infection characterized by discolored, thickened, and brittle nails. If you’ve recently started treatment for toenail fungus, you might be wondering whether it is actually working.

Thankfully, there exist a few signs that your toenail fungus is healing and the infection is clearing up. Let’s go over them in detail in this blog!

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    Signs Your Toenail Fungus Is Healing

    If you notice the following signs, you know that your toenail fungus is healing:

    Color Starts to Improve

    Infected nails usually look yellow, brown, or whitish. As the fungus dies, the discoloration begins to fade. Once you start treatment, you will notice an improvement in color. The nails will start to regain their natural color.

    Nail Texture Becomes Smoother

    Fungal nails are often thick, crumbly, and brittle. When the infection improves, the nail plate becomes thinner, easier to trim, and smoother in texture – just how a healthy nail feels.

    New Healthy Nail Growth Appears

    You will also notice that a fresh, new nail is growing from the base (cuticle area). This is the most reliable sign that the treatment is working. Over time, this new nail will push out the old, damaged part.

    Less Odor

    Toenail fungus sometimes has a foul smell to it. As the infection clears, this odor becomes much less noticeable or disappears entirely.

    Less Pain or Discomfort

    Toenail fungus can cause pain or pressure under the nail. If the treatment is working for you, you will feel less pain and discomfort, making walking or wearing shoes more comfortable.

    Cleaner Nail Bed

    You may notice less debris or buildup under the nail as the fungus dies. The nail bed looks cleaner and easier to maintain.

    How Long Does It Take for Toenail Fungus to Die?

    Toenail fungus doesn’t go away overnight. Because toenails grow slowly, visible improvement can take several months. While topical creams and medications may take more time to work, advanced procedures involving laser work faster in treating toenail fungus.

    You may require at least 2 to 4 sessions of toenail fungus laser treatment spaced several weeks apart to destroy the infection. The results, however, appear within 2 to 3 months as the healthy nail begins to grow out.

    Lastly, how fast the infection goes away also depends on how consistently you follow the aftercare instructions. Consistent aftercare and good hygiene are crucial for avoiding reinfection.

    Is Toenail Fungus Laser Treatment Worth It?

    Absolutely, yes! Toenail fungus laser treatment is worth every penny. Here is why:

    • It is a quick procedure involving little to no discomfort or pain.
    • It targets the fungus right beneath the nail without any harm to the surrounding skin or tissue
    • Unlike medications, laser therapy does not have any harmful side effects.
    • This treatment does not have any downtime and is safe for patient who cannot tolerate antifungal pills.
    • When combined with good hygiene and nail care, laser treatment can provide long-term relief.
    Questions About How To Know If Toenail Fungus Is Dying?

    Overall Insight

    A toenail fungus takes time to heal. However, there are clear signs that show your treatment is working. You will notice your nail’s color improving, texture becoming smoother, and new healthy nail growth appearing from the base. The foul odor fades, pain or discomfort lessens, and the nail bed looks cleaner.

    Looking for a comprehensive toenail fungus treatment? Head to Asthetik Skin or call us at (571) 562-5855 to book your appointment.

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