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Skin conditions
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More about Athlete's Foot
Originally Published: January 24, 1997
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Hello Alice, I've been ridden with Chronic Athlete's Foot for about 10 years or so...I've finally gained control of the athlete's foot, but have not been able to overcome the Fungus Growth beneath the toenails. The "over the counter" athlete's foot creams, etc. don't seem to overcome this unsightly distortion of my toenails. Is there something available that I just don't know about? I've read of a drug available through physicians, but the literature indicates possible "Side Effects." Can you help? Sincerely,
Dear "Horny-Toed," When the fungal infection of athlete's foot finds its way under the toenails, it is next to impossible to get rid of with over-the-counter athlete's foot creams. Luckily, as you pointed out, there are a couple new medications, anti-fungal antibiotics, that usually do the trick in cases such as yours. Of course, there are side-effects associated with just about any medication -- it's a matter of weighing the pros and cons of drug treatment versus alternative treatment, or none at all, before deciding what to do. Why not discuss your treatment options with your health care provider? Ask your provider about the possible side-effects of each available medication, as well as how s/he thinks you might be affected. While you're there, find out if s/he knows of any other remedies you can try that you feel more comfortable with. Another good reason to consult with your health care provider is that there may be a different reason for the way your toenails look that no amount of antifungal treatment will help. But this needs to be determined by a provider who has the opportunity to actually look at your toenails. Or, stop by your local health food store to see what types of herbal and/or homeopathic treatments are available. Of course, it's likely that they'll only have topical creams and ointments for athlete's foot, and you'll run into the same dilemma as you have already with over-the-counter treatments. The director of the Whitaker Wellness Center in Newport Beach, CA suggests putting chopped garlic in your socks before going to bed (and sleeping with those socks on!) -- supposedly, the garlic acts as a natural antibiotic and can clear up a fungal infection. It may be worth a try -- you never know! Getting rid of fungal infections, such as yours, usually requires quite an effort. It may end up being a matter of trial and error to find a treatment that works. Definitely see your health care provider for more information and suggestions. There are more treatment options these days than there were a few years ago! If you would like to read general information on athlete's foot, check out Athlete's foot in Alice's General Health archives. Good luck!
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