Toe fungus

Dear Ask The Doctor: I have fungus under 2 of my nails on one foot,i've had it for about 4 years now .i've tried all kinds of nail treatments.i keep whats left of my nail cut real short and i brush on the treatments ,i just don't see much in results? can you help? my Doc,says just try to deal with it.

Dear Folger:

An infection with nail fungus may be difficult to treat, and infections may recur. But medications are available to help clear up nail fungus.

Over-the-counter antifungal nail creams and ointments are available, but they aren't very effective. The most effective treatments are oral anti-fungal medication such as terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox). These medications help a new nail grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected portion of your nail. You typically take these medications for six to 12 weeks, but you won't see the end result of treatment until the nail grows back completely. It may take four months or longer to eliminate an infection. I wish you a prompt recovery.