Do Anti-fungal Drugs Work On Hands And Feet?

Many people are looking for remedies against nail fungus on hands and feet. This disorder, which causes a white or yellow discoloration as well as itching and other discomfort in the nails, makes up a third of all fungal infections of the skin.

According to information published in the Journal of Fungi , the infection is caused by dermatophytes, fungi that form roots under the nail. Because of this, it is often a difficult condition to eliminate and its symptoms tend to reappear after a while. Below we look at what one knows about it.

Nail fungus: You need to know

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that occurs on both fingernails and toenails. However, the latter are usually more affected. Although it is not a serious disorder, it is a public health problem due to its high incidence, poor response to treatment and the health effects it has.

As explained by the American Academy of Dermatology , hot and humid environments, such as swimming pools or public changing rooms, promote infection. In addition, it is related to lack of hygiene, sweat and closed shoes or any other situation that exposes your nails to moisture for a long time.

Symptoms include:

• White spots or nail discoloration
• Thickening of nails
• Crazy nails that crumble or lift from toe or finger
• Irregular nails
• Itching or bad smell (in a few cases)

Most cases are mild and affect nothing but the appearance. However, when the infection has complications, it can be painful and actually cause irreparable damage to the nails. If you have diabetes or a disease that compromises your immune system, then you need to be careful.

If so, it is important to seek medical attention, as any damage to the feet, including this type of infection, can lead to serious complications due to your immune response and circulatory problems.

Also read: Seven strategies to increase blood flow to your feet for 20 days

Do anti-fungal agents work on hands and feet?

In the popular literature there is a wide range of remedies for nail fungus. However, experts still question these methods. In a study in the Journal of Fungi , they indicate that options such as tea tree oil and the plant known as ageratina pichinchensis showed fungicidal activity.

Other agents such as propolis and Vicks Vaporub also had positive effects against nail fungus in some pilot studies. Nevertheless, the results are not conclusive and more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these types of treatments.

Despite this, it is acceptable to use them as adjunctive therapies as they have not shown any side effects in humans, suggesting that they are safe and tolerable. Of course, whenever possible, use them in conjunction with medical treatments.

Pharmaceuticals against nail fungus on hands and feet

So far, drugs are the most accepted treatments for nail fungus. Although they are also being investigated. These treatment options are available as topical and oral treatments, and you can see more in a publication in the Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

The topical agents include lacquer formulas such as amorolfine 5% and ciclopirox 8%. Creams, powders and other topical products are usually not as effective because they do not penetrate so easily.

Also read: 5 essential oils against nail fungus

Oral treatment may include griseofulvin, terbinafine, itraconazole and ketoconazole. These require use for an extended period of time. It also has a higher risk of side effects such as headache, gastrointestinal disorders and skin rash.

Because of this, follow the dosing instructions and the time of use as recommended by a professional. You also need to keep in mind that you need to use both options consistently to get results. If you do not, the infection may continue or even worsen.

What else can help against nail fungus?

When you face a problem like nail fungus, it is important to consult your dermatologist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment depending on the case. In addition, you can take some simple steps for self-care.

For example, wear open shoes, dry your feet well and wear shoes in humid areas such as swimming pools, showers and changing rooms.