But, it’s also a fact that no single toe nail fungus treatment on today’s market can guarantee perfect results for everyone that uses it 100 percent of the time!

So, what guarantee do you have that as a onychomycosis treatment Zetaclear does what it says it will do, and how do you know that you’re just not wasting your money and your time?

For the safest possible toe nail fungus treatment, my recommendation is using Zetaclear as a treatment for onychomycosis over the course of three to four weeks to see how effectively it will treat your fungus. 

If there is a visible improvement, then it’s safe to say Zetaclear is the perfect toe nail fungus treatment product for you and you can join the thousands of other individuals that suffered from nail fungus who have found Zetaclear to be a one of the most successful onychomycosis treatments.

Once you reach this determination, you’ll be safe in assuming and find comfort in knowing that continuing this toe nail fungus treatment through the duration will completely and permanently eliminate your fungus.

Once you have decided to continue treatment, make every effort to avoid any disruption in topical treatment for onychomycosis or your condition could potentially get worse and, naturally relief will be delayed.

For more information regarding Zetaclear as a toe nail fungus treatment go here:

There’s little doubt you’ll see visible improvement in as little as two or three weeks.  And, then you’ll want to continue using Zetaclear as a toe nail fungus treatment.

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Oral Medicinal Treatments

Earlier, such treatments as griseofulvin, or ketoconazole, were used for treatment purposes. These have existed for a quite some time. Afterwards treatment included Lamisil, or Sporanox. The challenge with these drugs were the time it took for them to become effective. Some individuals suffered severe side effects as well.

Original Laser Treatment Applications

Originally, laser treatment applications were used to create holes (channels) in the nails. This process is known as fenestration and was used to give topical onychomycosis treatments better access to treat fungus. The laser would provide a pathway for the medication to enter the nail.

Efficacy of Laser Treatments

Only a few trial studies have been conducted on the efficacy (effectiveness) of laser onychomycosis treatment. So far, the results seen have been favorable. Although – when clinical trials are used on a larger degree of the population there is a chance to see results which are not as favorable. The degree of benefit seen may change with increased study. Currently, it is too early to tell just how favorable onychomycosis laser treatment is.

The Price of Treatment

The price of onychomycosis laser treatment can be rather expensive. Each treatment costs roughly $1000 to $3000. Generally, the laser treatment will not be covered by medical insurance. This is due to the fact onychomycosis is viewed as a cosmetic disease. Generally, this is true unless other serious complications result from the nail fungus.

Few Side Effects

When looking into thi onychomycosis treatment, there are very few side effects seen with the procedure. Basically, this leads to the only risk being the money paid to do the procedure. A rapid solution is possible with using this form of treatment.

Are you willing to spend the money? Many are willing to take the risk to keep from having challenges with the disease. Laser treatment for onychomycosis can help prevent an unappealing and disfiguring nail disease which can occur if left untreated.

Laser Treatment Help

In some locations, clinical trials may occur. Participating in these studies as a patient may be beneficial. The studies are usually conducted near hospitals which are academically based. If interested in learning more information, please visit www.clinicaltrials.gov. Trials are listed which are occurring in the United States, and several other countries. Many times participation can prove beneficial; although there is a risk you will receive a placebo laser treatment. On the other hand, you could save a few thousand dollars by being a participant and gaining the true procedure.

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The Nail Infection

This type of nail infection usually causes the nail to become disfigured, which is also common among other types of onychomycosis. The difference is that it will begin at the cuticle area and move with the nail as it grows. This will cause the nail to have dips, bumps, and irregularities. The infection involved with proximal subungual onychomycosis will infect the nail bed much earlier and can cause the nail to come off. It can dislodge from the bed and completely lift off which will expose the nail bed to more potential infections.

Causes of Infection

The causes of infection for this type are similar in nature to Distal Subungual Onychomycosis. Usually the biggest number of cases is caused by dermatophyte (Trichophyton ruburm). Keep in mind that proximal subungual onychomychosis can also be triggered by another dermatophyte called Trichophyton mentagrophyte.

Proximal infections can be caused by mold. Symptoms of proximal subungual onychomycosis can include: appearance of mold, red swollen skin which is around the nail, inflammation, and oozing pus. This is commonly seen with this nail infection.

The symptoms discussed are very similar to those of a bacterial infection, creating possible misdiagnosis. Antibiotic therapy will not necessarily stop the infection, nor rid the body of symptoms. In this situation, an antifungal medication is needed for proximal subungual onychomycosis treatment. This will help to get rid of molds, dermatophytes, and yeasts.

Seen More Often

This type of nail infection is seen more often in those who have immune deficiencies. Their immune systems are depressed, or down, as compared to having a healthy immunity. Proximal subungual onychomycosis is rarely seen in individuals with healthy immune systems.

Immuno-depression (scientific name) can be a result of an individual having chemotherapy, or in people with an autoimmune disease. Sometimes, individuals who have undergone an organ transplant will become infected. This is partly due to the fact – their immune systems are deliberately suppressed.

Frequent Occurrences

Proximal subungual onychomycosis is also seen in individuals with HIV, or immunodeficiency virus. If a physician can find no other causes of this form of nail infection, they will commonly order a HIV test to rule out the disease. Please be prepared for this if you have been diagnosed with this form of nail infection.

Physicians must have your consent to run a test for HIV. If you have been diagnosed with proximal subungual onychomycosis, this does not necessarily mean that you will test positive for the HIV virus.

Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis Treatment

Treatment for this type of nail infection is often taking an oral anti-fungal medication. Here is more information which may prove helpful:

• Infection caused by Trichophyton rubrum or Trichophyton mentagrophytes – your physician will likely prescribe terbinafine, which is also known as Lamisil
• Infection cause is unknown – your physician will likely prescribe itroconazole, which is also known as Sporanox

The dosage of Lamisil is usually one pill each day containing 250 milligrams. This will take place for 6 weeks for a fingernail infection, and 12 weeks for a toenail infection. Lamisil is generally less costly than other antifungal medications.

Sporanox is prescribed due to its effectiveness to treat Candida infections and dermatophyte infection. This treatment tends to cost more for the patient.

Other Medicines

Proximal subungual onychomycosis treatment may also involve fluconazole, which is also known as Diflucan. It is not used as often as other medications to treat this nail infection.

This agent will stop the growth of fungi and keeps the disease from spreading. It does not kill the fungi that are present. This is known as a fungistatic medication which stops growth, as opposed to a fungicide which kills the growth.

Diflucan is used to help stop the growth – so that the immune system can then take care of the rest. This is not usually the drug of choice among physicians, but the patients who are given the medication will take it until the infection is gone.

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What are some of the causes of toenails ingrown?

The medical term for ingrown toenails is onychocryptosis. The condition is most often seen in individuals who wear unsuitable, or ill-fitting, shoes. Socks can be worn which are also too tight around the feet creating unnecessary pressure around the toes. If your feet are moist and sweaty on a consistent basis, the nail can soften and create tissue swelling as well.

When trimming the nails improperly, damage can occur which increases the probability of getting ingrown toenails due to abnormal growth. The growth of the nail plate depends on the angle of the trim (upwards, or inwards). Cutting or trimming nails too short can also create problems for the individual.

Another reasons for ingrown toenail is fungual infection, which is called onychomycosis.

Can you prevent toenails from ingrowing?

For the most part, you can prevent toenails from becoming ingrown. The ingrowth can occur on toenails as well as fingernails. The condition is most commonly seen in the big toes of the feet. When trimming toe nail length, you should trim the nail straight across from side to side. Avoid cutting the nails too short, leaving a small white edge. In some cases, the nails will need to be trimmed ever so slightly into the corners. Care should be taken using small nail file to “knock the corners off” slightly to prevent irritation to the flesh. Actual cutting of the nails in the corners should be done by a professional to eliminate problems. Wear appropriate footwear for the feet.

Can the pain from ingrown toenails be treated?

When working with ingrown toenails, there are a few things which will help relieve the pain and suffering. Temporary relief can be achieved for those in good physical health. If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or nerve damage – please see your primary care physician for treatment.

Here are a few steps to help decrease the pain of having ingrown toenails. First of all, sterilize the clippers you will be using in alcohol, or use betadine. Next, place two cups of iodine solution into a half gallon of warm water. Soak your feet in the mixture for approximately 15 minutes.

After soaking, be sure to dry your feet completely. Using the nail clippers while the toe nails are soft (after soaking and drying); place the edge of the clipper under the border of the nail. At a slight angle, clip the ingrown nail out. Keep the bottom of the nail clipper as close to the bottom edge of the nail as possible. Be careful not to clip skin when doing this. Once you have trimmed, or cut out, the ingrown nail – take your fingers around the big toe and pull the skin down from around the nail very cautiously. Carefully cleanse the area with alcohol, or use betadine if preferred.

Soak daily in the above warm water and betadine solution until the pain is gone. Dry after each soak thoroughly and apply antibiotic ointment to the ingrown area. Apply a covering, or bandage, to the area to protect from getting infection. The bandage will also protect the area from further irritations. You can apply a very small piece of cotton between the nail and the affected area of skin. This can be done for a few days to relieve pressure in the affected area while allowing the swelling to subside.

If using this method fails, then do not hesitate to seek medical assistance for your ingrown toenail. Home remedies do not help all people, and sometimes it is necessary to see your doctor for relief. In the case of infection in the area, it is wise to seek medical attention from the very beginning. Sometimes infection will need to be “drained off” the area by the physician to allow the body to heal itself.

In the cases of recurrence of ingrown toenails, the physician may recommend a surgical procedure to eliminate the condition. In this case, the nail root will be destroyed along the outsides of the nail. This will prevent the nail from growing on the outer edges where ingrown nails occur. Local anesthesia is used in most cases during the procedure. After surgery, inflamed tissue may still cause pain and irritation. Oral meds can be used to decrease the pain and provide further relief.

There are three stages which exist medically when looking at ingrown toenails. The first stage involves redness of the affected area along with swelling. In this case, you can soak the feet in warm antiseptic solutions, use application of antibiotic cream, and elevate the toe nail corners.

The next stage of ingrown toenails involves the need to remove a portion of the toenail. This is needed to avoid increased infection of the area. The final stage involves the need to remove the lateral nail plate (lateral matritectomy). When this procedure is used, granular tissue is usually removed from the toe as well. Always follow your physicians advice to avoid further complications.

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The most common cause of nails turning yellow to brown in color is a result of fungal infections. When fungi are producing and growing, they produce pigments which are colored. Let us take a look at one example.

When penicillium produces and grows, the pigments commonly seen are deep green in color. This is the same fungi which produces penicillin. Fungi which are commonly seen in nails will usually produce a yellow to brown colored pigmentation.

If you have yellow toenails, it is important to see your physician to determine if you are dealing with a fungal infection. A medical diagnosis can be made for you officially. Physicians are familiar with toenail fungal infections, as they are a very common occurrence. He, or she, will be able to make a diagnosis for this condition as well as for others which are commonly seen with “yellowed nails.”

In some cases, the physician may desire to take a very small piece of the nail and send it to the laboratory. This is done to confirm any diagnosis being made as well as determining the best treatment option. A variety of tests can be used in this situation within the lab setting.

When yellowing of the nail occurs, it may not be uniform in color. In other words, you may see the color is inconsistent throughout the nail. Yellowing toenails may be seen on one nail, or several. The fungus may be growing in only part of the nail, or the entire nail. “Streaking” of yellow color may be seen as well.

Treatment will help to gain control over the fungus. If a nail is partially infected and left untreated, it can cause the whole nail to become infected (if it is not already). Infection may be seen in the nail which progresses toward the root. Earlier treatment is much better than waiting to treat the infection. If the infection involves the lunula, or white crescent moon shape, near the cuticle – it becomes more difficult to treat.

Treatment comes in a variety of forms when handling yellowing nails. Your primary care doctor may decide to prescribe you an oral medication which is taken by mouth for the infection. Medication by mouth may be required for several months to a year, depending on the infection. Oral medications can be very expensive and insurance coverage may vary. The side effects from oral medications can also differ by person and the specific medication used.

Topical agents (such as ZetaClear) are also available for those interested in trying an alternative course of action. Topical agents come in different forms. Some are available which are painted on the nails like nail polish. This method can only be used on the yellow nails, which do not involve infection in the area of the lunula.

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Dermatophytes-based onychomycosis occurs more frequently in the toe nails (as compared to the finger nails). Candida onychomycosis results in more fingernail infections. Nearly half of all onychomycosis infections are a result of Candida spp.

When looking at Candida infections, most will begin as a paronychia infection, also known as “whitlow.” With this type of infection, it will begin in the skin structures around the nail, instead of in the nail itself. The opposite is true of the dermatophytes type.

Another type of onychomycosis is a result of Candida granuloma. It is seen more in patients who have chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, or CMC. They many times will suffer more from this form of nail infection.

Risk Factors Involved

Current knowledge of true candida onychomycosis is limited due to data which is hardly available for this type. Patients will differ in their mode of seeking guidance. Some will visit their family doctor, while others will visit their manicurist for more information.

Indirectly, it is estimated that approximately 9% of the population surveyed in deed are dealing with onychomycosis nail infections. Of this number, nearly half of the cases are caused by candida. From this data, it is safe to say that approximately 0.4% of the general population is affected by this form.

When looking at risk factors, it is safe to say that climate differences are likely to increase chances of becoming infected. For example, many of these cases are seen in Saudi Arabia – there are Moslem practices of feet washing five times each day. Within this country, there is also a high incidence of candida onychomycosis.

Note: When looking at the candida species, candida albican is the most frequently seen cause of candida onychomycosis. When looking at the non-albican species, the most frequently seen is the following: c. parapsilosis, c. guillermondii, and c. krusei.

Manifestations Clinically

Candida onychomycosis is presented in one of several patterns. They can include proximal subungual onychomycosis patterns, onycholysis, or candida granuloma. Let us discuss each pattern briefly.

Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis

Candida spp will penetrate the nail plate after the soft tissues are infected around the nail. The tissues will appear to be edematous as well as red. The nail will see transverse depressions which are known as “Beau lines” – which may be seen in the plate of the nail. The nail will change from a healthy appearance to having rough texture, irregular shape, and will become convex. The nail will finally become dystrophic.

Onycholysis Patterns

When onycholysis patterns occur, distal subungal hyperkeratosis occurs. This results in a gray-yellowish mass which will cause the nail to lift off of the nail bed. The separation is known as “onycholysis.” Lysis- means separation, while onycho-means nail. This is the basis for candida onychomycosis.

Candida Granuloma

Again, many patients with CMC will deal with severe types of onychomycosis. Candida will invade the nail and thickness will occur. Deformities may occur which are known as “chicken drumsticks.” This occurs due to the swelling of the lateral as well as proximal nail folds. This is also known as a digit (finger) deformity.

Diagnostic Strategy

The diagnostic strategy for candida onychomycosis is the same as diagnosing dermatophytic onychomycosis. Refer to Onychomycosis Symptoms.

Treatment Therapies

The candida onychomycosis treatment strategies for each are the same – candida onychomycosis and dermatophtic onychomycosis.

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This condition is usually seen in men more frequently than women. It is commonly associated with tinea pedis, concurrently. Onycomycosis will usually affect the toenails more commonly than the finger nails. If a fingernail infection occurs, it is usually in parallel with a toenail infection. There are three classifications of onychomycosis, each differing in the pattern of invasion: distal lateral subungual, proximal subungual, as well as superficial white.

DLSO, or distal lateral subungual onychomycosis, is the most common form and it will begin with the invasion of fungus in the hyponichium (distal portion of the nail). In many western nations, DLSO is common due mainly to Trichophyton rubrum.

Fungal invasion which is a result at the dorsal nail superficially is known as SWO, or superficial white onychomycosis. This condition is typically caused by T. rubrum, or T. mentagrophytes. This can be seen in HIV patients as well as those with immune deficiencies.

Another form of invasion known as PSO, or proximal subungual onychomycosis, will be seen in the proximal nail fold. This condition is typically caused by T. rubrum, in the absences of paronychia.

In samples of infected nails, sometimes Candida is seen. Usually, this is a result of a secondary infection in the nail. It is not usually thought of as the main culprit, or primary pathogen. Candida is commonly seen with chronic cases of paronychia. If Candida is the primary invasion, then it will typically be related to the patient having chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis.

If a patient’s immune system has been compromised, SWO and PSO are commonly reported. Increasing numbers of patients with SWO and PSO are seen in states which have higher numbers of HIV infection as well as compromised immune systems.

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Many individuals are unaware of the health concerns of having cracking nails. The condition can be very painful and also creates an “open door” to other infections, or diseases. Often, cracking can be a sign of having a fungal infection of the nails.

Neglecting the cracking of the nails can result in more pain, and more frail nails. The more the nail cracks open – there is the greater chance to allow bacteria to enter into the nail bed. This can ultimately result in a bacterial nail infection.

What are some of the causes of cracking nails?

Cracked fingernails and toenails can be caused by a variety of things. The condition may affect only one nail, or many. Here are a few possible causes:

• Injury – when the nail is injured, cracking can occur. Usually cracking will be seen fairly quickly after the trauma. Bleeding may also be seen under the nail, or around the area of trauma.

• Neglect – overgrown nails which are not cared for can begin cracking through time. Hygiene is very important when caring for hands and feet.

• Type of Shoes – shoes that do not fit well can cause pressure on the toes. This can and will eventually result in cracking of the nails. Feet (and nails) do not have room to “breathe.” Excess perspiration and increased moisture can help set the stage for “cracking.” This is also the perfect set up for fungal and bacterial infections.

• Fungus of Toenails – this is one of the most common causes of cracking. It is a medical condition which can be a result of several situations. Tight fitting shoes, walking barefoot in public places, and swimming in public access pools can create a positive environment to gain toenail fungus.

• Drying Agents – some household chemicals will dry the nails when there is a consistent contact. One example includes cleaning products for the home. Another example is diesel products, or other chemicals. Nails can become damaged and cracked over time through exposure. Always wear gloves while dealing with chemicals. Wash the contact area as soon as possible.

• Aging – with the aging process more dry skin and nails are possible. The skin and nails routinely hold less moisture. As people age, they become more prone to cracking nails.

Using Home Remedies for Cracking Nails

Keeping skin and nails in the best possible condition will help to prevent cracking. Healthy looking skin and nails look much nicer than cracked, ugly, and unhealthy ones. There are a few things at home which are helpful for home remedy:

• Avoid trauma when possible. If you have an accident, or nail trauma, be sure to have your physician look at it. This is very important and he may simply apply an antibiotic ointment along with bandage. Keep the area clean and change the bandage regularly.

• Wear shoes which fit properly. This is very important for good foot health. Tight fitting shoes can create problems as well as delay healing.

• Use good moisturizing lotions on a regular basis to help keep the moisture content of nails and hands in good condition. Allow to penetrate the skin and dry before putting on socks and shoes.

Read more on home treatment for onychomycosis here.

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The word distal means “from a distance.” It is a distance from the nail root. The word subungual means “underneath the nail.” When discussing the word, onychomycosis, we are referring to a nail infection scientifically caused by a fungal infection.

Types of Nail Infections – Medically Speaking

There are many different types of nail infections discussed within the medical field. Physicians use more specific terms to document the type of nail infection involved. Distal subungual onychomycosis is one of them. There are numerous types of nail infections which can be rather bothersome.

Some individuals also suffer from lateral subungual onychomycosis. This is a nail infection on the lateral sides of the nail. Lateral means “along the sides of.” If you physician refers to a proximal subungual onychomycosis, then it will originate in near the nail root. The nail root is near the nail cuticle. Proximal means “closer to” so it is found closer to the nail root and cuticle.

Dermatophyte Nail Infections

Each of the nail infections discussed above are usually a result of dermatophytes. This fungi loves to grow in skin, nails, and hair. More commonly, distal subungual onychomycosis is seen among patients. Lateral infections are commonly seen with distal infections. Cases of proximal infections are rarely seen – they are usually accompanied by a nail injury, or with patients having immune system challenges.

White Superficial Onychomycosis

When patients have distal, or lateral, subungual onychomycosis – the main type of nail infection is that of white superficial onychomycosis. The fungus will invade the nail primarily through the nail surface. Patients will see a white patch on their nail, or nails. This can spread completely across the nail surface over time.

Toenail infections are also common when speaking of White Superficial Onychomycosis. This is normally caused by dermatophytes – although the fungus can be of a different kind. When looking at medical data, it is safe to say that only about 10% of infections of the nail infections (fungal) are considered superficial (laying on top of the nail).

For this form of nail infection, of fungal origin will usually respond to topical therapy. This is if the nail does not become too thick during the infection period.

Proper Diagnosis of Nail Infections

Any nail condition should be properly diagnosed by your family physician, especially if it is a distal subungual onychomycosis. There are different types of nail infections and various conditions which may cause them.

Discolored and disfigured nails can be a sign of a more serious physical issue within the body. Be sure of the diagnosis before beginning treatment of the nail. Once a diagnosis has been made, treatment can begin. It may include topical agents which are over the counter, or prescription. There are also natural distal subungual onychomycosis treatment options available which may be preferred.

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Onychomycosis Causes

The cause of toenail fungus can be many as it will evolve around warm and wet environments. Areas of exposure can include public showers, gymnasiums, saunas, public stalls, swimming pools, and local nail salons. Other causes can stem from working in environments which are warm, or wet.

People who constantly experience wet hands, such as dishwasher attendants and professional cleaners, can gain the nail infection. People who wear enclosed shoes and seldom let their feet air out can also cause onychomycosis. The sweat, moisture, and heat can entrap the skin of the feet and the result is toenail fungus.

Increased Activities

Let’s face it – our feet endure a lot of wear and tear in life. The feet endure activities of running, walking, playing sports, and much more. Any of these increased activities can lead to a tear, or crack, in the nail plate. The moisture found in our shoes and socks can enter through these nail cracks giving an invitation to the fungus. It can be very difficult to get rid of the nail infection unless topical, or oral, medications are used.

Weak Immune Systems & More

Another challenge with developing nail fungus is for individuals who have weak immune systems. Individuals who have AIDS or HIV can be at increased risk. Other people who have undergone organ transplants can also be at risk.

Individuals who smoke tobacco are at better risk for developing nail fungus. Also those who are older than 70 years of age are at risk – covering nearly half of the cases. If you have diabetes, or circulation issues, you are also at greater risk.

Genetics can play a role in the risk factor. This is commonly seen if a parent seems more susceptible to getting nail fungus, then children may carry the same genetic predisposition.

Maintaining Proper Care

Causes of toenail fungus can be a result of improper care of the feet. Good hygiene is needed to help to prevent nail infections. Drying your feet properly every day after showing is important. Wet towels can also spread nail fungus as well as contact with bathroom floors – if someone is infected with the disease and made surface contact. Remember, toenail fungus can be spread from one set of feet to another. Several people in one household will commonly spread the fungus to each other.

If you have itchy feel and unknowingly have fungus – scratching your feet can transfer the infection to your fingernails. Always take the time to properly wash and dry your hands.

Using Nail Polish

The use of nail polish can worsen nail infections. If proper care is not used, using polish can also create a situation which will help the development of infection. Care should be given to ensure the nails are clean, dry, and free from infection before using a bottle of nail polish. If seeing a manicurist, take your own bottle of polish with you – so you know that only you have used the polish.

Odd Shaped and Discolored Nails

If you have discolored, or odd-shaped nails – it is not always a result of having a fungal infection. Sometimes, other conditions can result in the same symptoms. Psoriasis as well as trauma to the nail can cause disfigurement, and discoloration. Nails discomforts which are truly a result of a fungal organism can be caused by yeast infections, as well as trichophyton rubrum.

Effective Treatment

Toe nail fungus can be treated effectively by ZetaClear. It is an amazing solution which provides great results for many. Numerous documentations have been written by people who have used the product and seen quick recovery. It is also known to help with the prevention of further infections. For more information, please take a look at our review of ZetaClear, and Funginix.

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