Medication

• Topical creams are usually ineffective for toenail fungus, which is why you need to see a doctor if you notice fungus developing. She can usually prescribe a medication that will clear it up. However, most of these medications are fairly expensive. Itraconazole, terbinafine and fluconazole are all prescribed to fight toenail fungus. Your doctor will want to make sure that you are healthy enough to take these medications, as they can cause liver damage, headaches and rashes. However, many find great success with these medicinal treatments for their fungus.
  
  

Removal

• If you are not healthy enough for toenail fungus medication, and your toenail fungus is actually interfering with your daily life, your health care provider may suggest that he remove the toenail altogether. Removing the toenail eradicates the fungus by removing the keratin that the fungus feeds on. Of course, this procedure can be potentially painful and has some recovery time. The toenail is cut away from the foot, and then the foot is bandaged. It may take up to one year for a new toenail to grow, as they grow fairly slowly. But for some who suffer from debilitating toenail fungus, this is an effective treatment.
  
  

Prevention

• In the case of toenail fungus, the best treatment for it is preventing it in the first place. Toenail fungus can be spread by coming in contact with germs, which are then allowed to multiply in the warm, damp area of your feet. Always wear rubber shoes or flip flips when in public showering areas. Don't go barefoot unless you are in your own home. When you've had a shower, wash your feet and then allow them to dry thoroughly before you put shoes or socks on. Choose shoes that give your feet enough room to breathe and don't get sweaty. Don't allow the fungus an environment in which it can feed and grow.