doesn’t become loose, it may still need to be removed if the fungus doesn’t go away with traditional treatments. In this case, a procedure called an avulsion is used to remove the entire nail. Sometimes the nail is removed permanently through a procedure called a matrixectomy. “This destroys the growing center at the base of the nail, either surgically or chemically, so it won’t grow back,” Joseph says.

Treating Symptoms of Toenail Fungus

If you suspect you have a toenail fungal infection, see a doctor, Joseph says. Your doctor may take a small sample from your toenail and have it analyzed to confirm the presence of a fungus. If the test comes back positive, an oral or topical antifungal medication may be prescribed to help treat the fungus. Most medications are well tolerated with few side effects, Joseph says.

If the affected area of your toenail is small and doesn’t hurt, your doctor may take a wait-and-see approach and just observe the infected nail over time. While the fungus is unlikely to go away on its own, it may not get any worse. “If you can live with a spot on your nail, then it might be fine with no treatment,” Joseph says. “But if you have cosmetic concerns, then a small dose of medication will probably take care of it.