Contracting a nail fungus can be as frustrating as it is unsightly. Whether you’re just noticing the first signs of infection, or you have a fungus that has started to grow and spread, it must be treated. It will never simply go away on its own. While there are plenty of treatment options to consider, today we’ll look at fluconazole for toenail fungus.
Fluconazole is an antifungal medication, typically taken orally. Fungal infections deteriorate quickly in dark and humid places. That’s why nail fungus is so common. What’s a more suitable environment for growth than inside a stuffy shoe or sock?
In this article, we’ll first take a look at the symptoms of toenail fungus. Then we’ll focus on how an antifungal agent, like fluconazole, can take care of it. By getting directly to the source of the fungus itself, you can prevent it from growing and spreading to other areas.
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How Do Fluconazole Tablets Cure Toenail Fungus?
Fluconazole works by stopping the growth of fungus. Antifungal agents like this can break down the cell structure of fungal infections. When the structure is compromised, growth is halted, and the fungus begins to dissipate.
It prohibits additional growth by creating ‘holes’ in the cell walls of the fungus. These holes allow the fungus itself to ‘leak’ out without spreading. They also allow the medication to essentially move in, allowing for faster and more effective healing.
How Do I Know if I Have a Toenail Fungus?
Not sure if you need an antifungal treatment option in the first place? With so many conditions that can affect the feet, it’s important to know what you’re dealing with, so you can treat it properly. Toenail fungus has a variety of different symptoms associated with it.
It can start out small, appearing as a black dot under the toenail. However, it tends to grow quickly if not monitored and treated. Some of the most common symptoms of a fungal infection include:
If you’re experiencing any number of those symptoms, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with a fungal infection. While there are many different treatment options out there, an antifungal solution like fluconazole will start to break down the fungus itself right away.
How to Use Fluconazole
Most antifungal solutions used for toenails are topical solutions. However, fluconazole is usually taken via tablet, orally. It is usually given as a prescription medication. It is a continual medication, that is designed to work within your body for several days, even after you take the pill.
You should only use it per your doctor’s directions. Don’t stop taking fluconazole before your prescription is complete. Doing so could cause the fungus to grow back.
This medication is sometimes presented in a liquid form. It is meant to be taken in a similar fashion, at least once a day. However, you’ll have to measure out the correct dosage of liquid, as opposed to simply taking a pill. Both have the same effect, overall.
What Are the Potential Side Effects?
As with just about any drug, there are certain side effects to fluconazole. While they are rare, people may have negative reactions that include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
In even rarer cases, some people may find themselves allergic to fluconazole, in which case they might experience more extreme side effects, such as:
- Rashes
- Itching/swelling
- Closed throat
- Difficulty breathing
If you experience any symptoms, it’s important to contact your doctor immediately.
The Powerful Effects of Fluconazole
Fluconazole is used to treat a variety of ailments. It’s been used for everything from yeast infections to meningitis. It’s also often used on patients who are undergoing chemotherapy, as they are more prone to fungal infections. The long list of conditions that depend on this medication speaks volumes as to how well it works.
What do all of these conditions have in common? They all stem from a fungal infection. When you consider the fact that fluconazole helps with such serious problems, a toenail fungus may not seem like such a big deal. However, all of the problems mentioned above (and so more) are associated with the same kind of fungus.
Toenail fungus can start out small, and seem ‘harmless.’ As far as fungal infections go, it’s an easily manageable one. But, as with most conditions, letting it go for too long can create bigger, and more serious problems. That’s exactly why it’s important to remember those listed symptoms above – the minute that you recognize a toenail fungus start treating it.
Is Fluconazole a Good Option?
Consult your doctor about your concerns before taking fluconazole. It is a strong antifungal agent, meant for fungal infections that are overgrown and have spread. If you notice a fungus early on, you might choose an over-the-counter treatment option.
Because of the potential side effects of fluconazole, only take it when recommended. Toenail fungus is a very common condition. So, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of more ‘mild’ treatment options available, that are easier to get without a prescription.
However, if you have neglected to treat your toenail fungus for quite some time, fluconazole could be the perfect solution. When not properly treated, a fungus can create even bigger problems. It can even spread to other areas of your body.
Treating the fungus internally through an oral medication can make a difference in how quickly it clears up. Fluconazole should be considered if you have a serious infection. Ask your doctor about how it could work for you and if it’s the right option.
