Fungal Nail Infection - Nail Problems Message Board

helenm55 · 08-03-2009, 07:22 AM

I have had athletes foot for a number of years now off and on, but about 18 months ago I noticed one of my toe nails had a black line running horizontally down it and it was also raised up, then 9 monthes ago my big toe nail came off it just slowly became unattached it was a funny grey colour, now I have another nail that has gone white and it unattached from 1/2 way down, I have been to the doctors and have to send in some off my toe nail clippings. He is pretty sure it is a fungal nail infection but I have two weeks to wait for the results. He said I could either take oral antifungal medication or paint the toe nails with something but it would have to be done for a long time.
My question is which is the best method and what are the side effects of taking oral medications. Many thanks for your replys
Helenx x

Marti · 08-20-2009, 06:26 AM

Fungal spores are very hard to kill because they live deep within the skin of ht enail bed as well as in the layers of the nail plate. Oral meds are usually prescribed only for 3 month periods. Penlac can be used for a long time without the same side effects. It can take upwards of a full year to totally kill all the spores.

Nancy4841 · 08-20-2009, 08:32 AM

Two years ago I tried Penlac under the advice from my doctor. After several months, I didn't notice any improvement. After more research, I booked in to see a Chiropodist. She told me that Penlac will work if I see her every 6 weeks where she will cut my nails and file them down. She said that filing the nail is the only effective way for Penlac to work as it needs to get down through the layers of the nail. She uses a small drummel like file hooked up to water.
I have been using Penlac this time for approximately 3 months and seeing my Chiropodist every 6 weeks for her treatment. I have been amazed at the results and I am starting to see pink nail emerging. I now look forward to next summer and finally having nice looking toe nails.

Rio2007 · 08-26-2009, 07:28 AM

I had laser treatment for my toe fungus 7/22/09. Toes look good today. Dr told me I must treat the whole foot so now I were Copper Socks, I have a special light which goes into shoes that kills all the sores and anti-fungal cream. It is very costly ($850.00) but after 15 years I made the decision to try the laser.

helenm55 · 08-29-2009, 01:05 AM

Thanks for the replies my doctor has just given me an antifungal caled Loceryl (amorolfine hydrohloride) I have to file my nails down and paint in on once a week, he said he could have given me oral medication but there is a risk of liver damage so thought I would try this first.
Will the Penlac be similar to what I am using?
How do the copper socks work,and what happens when you have laser?
Many thanks for your replies
Love Helen x x x