Toenail fungus occurs when fungi get under the nail bed and start growing. They can thrive in the nail bed indefinitely and can be very difficult to get rid of. At the first sign of a fungal infection, make an appointment with your doctor. The earliest sign is a white or yellow spot under the nail. Toenail fungus treatment can vary depending on the stage at which the fungus is caught. If still in the "spot" stage, some home remedies may be effective. Though this should not replace a visit to the doctor, they can at least possibly do some good while waiting on the appointment.

Home remedies for toenail fungus treatment include apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, and Listerine mouthwash. These are all considered to be able to kill the fungus, and they very well may. Try soaking the affected nail in the one of the remedies, or all of them, for several minutes a day to ensure they get under the nail bed and to the fungus. Though they may or may not work, they certainly will not cause any harm and might actually do some good in the waiting time between detection and doctor appointment. However, if the fungus has already progressed to the point that the nail has changed color or otherwise changed appearance, it is most likely too late for home remedies.

In this case, toenail fungus treatment is going to have to be more aggressive. Your doctor will prescribe an anti-fungal medication. This may be prescription strength, or if the situation is not yet too serious, he may recommend a good over the counter anti-fungal medication. Either way, at this point, it is important to remember that the fungus is deep in the nail bed and it probably going to take a long time to get rid of it. Consistency in applying medication is the key.

Toenail fungus treatment is important for a variety of reasons. For one, unsightly toenails are not fun and can wreak havoc on self-esteem. It can be dangerous as the malformed, raised toenails can increase the risk of falling. They can also be more easily ripped, increasing the risk of infection. The situation is especially dire to those who have diabetes or compromised immune systems. These included those with HIV, leukemia, or any other immunodeficient disorder. Those who suffer from these conditions should waste no time getting to the doctor and getting treatment.