big toe has lifed nail-bed. it has a fungus. Dr. said soak,ice,relax,elavate.pain med's. not working for me. in extreme pain!! what can i do??

Hello Anonymous,

Welcome to EmpowHER. Thank you for reaching out to our community for help.

How long have you been following your physician's treatment plan? If it has been close to seven days, please contact your physician to report no relief.

Nail fungus is a common condition that begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the fungal infection goes deeper, nail fungus may cause your nail to discolor, thicken and crumble at the edge. It can affect several nails but usually not all of them.

Infected nails also may separate from the nail bed, a condition called onycholysis and cause pain and a slightly foul odor.

Nail fungal infections are typically caused by a dermatophyte fungus.

Anonymous, when self-care measures and over-the -counter pain relievers fail, a physician can prescribe an oral antifungal medication. Studies show the most effective treatments are terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox). These drugs help a new nail grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected part.

Other treatment options include an antifungal nail polish called ciclopirox (Penlac) or an antifungal cream, which you rub into your infected nails after soaking.

Hope this information is helpful.

Regards,
Maryann