Fungus Among Us: Dr. Roni Gets Real About Toenail Trouble
You know that crusty, thick, yellow stuff on your toenails that you’ve been ignoring and hoping will just… disappear? Yeah, that’s toenail fungus. And as much as we wish it would pack up and leave on its own, it tends to stick around - literally.
I get asked about this all the time. So today, I’m breaking it down: what toenail fungus really is, why it’s so hard to get rid of, and what you actually need to do to treat and prevent it. Spoiler alert - it’s more than just a cream.
What Is Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is an infection that sneaks up under the nail and starts causing trouble. It changes the color; yellow, brown, even a little green sometimes. It makes your nail thick, crumbly, and honestly, kind of gross-looking. It’s not just cosmetic, your toenail is sick.
“Will This Pill Work?” Let’s Talk Treatment Options
Maybe you’re standing in your bathroom right now holding a pill bottle, wondering if it’ll fix your toe. If it’s an antifungal medication like Lamisil or Sporanox, it might help. These work from the inside out because this is an internal infection that shows up on the outside.
Now, can you just put a cream on it? You can. But it’s probably not enough on its own.
Topical creams, some prescription, some over-the-counter, can support healing, especially if the infection is mild. But for deeper or long-standing cases, internal treatment is usually needed.
Laser treatments are another option. They’re newer, not always covered by insurance, and not everyone sees results. Then there’s toenail removal surgery - yes, that’s a real thing, and sometimes it’s the best route when the fungus just won’t quit.
In my clinic, we’ve even used ozone injections underneath the nail with success—but again, not for everyone. It depends on how bad the infection is and how long you’ve had it.
So, How Do You Prevent It?
This part’s important, because preventing toenail fungus is easier (and cheaper) than treating it.
✔️ Keep your feet clean and dry
✔️ Avoid dark socks and tight shoes that don’t breathe
✔️ Stick with clean cotton socks
✔️ Let your feet breathe when you can
✔️ Don’t go barefoot in public places; gyms, spas, locker rooms
✔️ Don’t share pedicure tools
✔️ Don’t cut your toenails too short (yes, that can cause infections too!)
People with diabetes or low immunity need to be extra cautious - fungal infections hit harder when circulation is poor or the body’s defenses are down.
What About OTC Options?
There are over-the-counter creams and sprays, but I’ll be honest with you - they’re usually weaker than prescription options. If you're going the internal route with pills, I highly recommend getting a doctor’s prescription. Why?
Because antifungal medications can be serious business.
They can cause side effects like nausea, headaches, rashes and in some cases, liver damage. If you’re on them for more than a month or two, it’s time to reassess. Monitor your body. Don’t just pop pills hoping it’ll go away.
Don’t Ignore Your Feet - They’re Telling You Something
A lot of people ignore foot issues because it’s “just” their feet. But your feet are in direct connection with your entire body. Sometimes skin rashes or odd symptoms elsewhere start from what’s happening at your toes.
Toenail fungus isn’t just a cosmetic problem, it’s a health warning. Your immune system, your circulation, your hygiene habits… all of these play a part.
So, in retrospect
Take care of your feet like you take care of your face. Keep them clean, dry, and protected. If you’ve got fungus, treat it seriously. Start from the inside out, use your judgment, and don’t be afraid to seek help from a professional.
Because your body? It’s all connected and your toes might be trying to tell you something long before your blood work does.
Stay well and fungus-free – Dr. Roni
