"Does Bright Nails Actually Deliver Results?"

Update Date: 2024-09-11 Source: Network

Treating Onychomycosis: Is Liangjia Effective?

When it comes to onychomycosis, also known as灰指甲, many people are familiar with its challenges. Not only is it notoriously difficult to treat, but it is also contagious, potentially spreading to healthy nails if not properly managed. Viewers of television have likely encountered advertisements for Liangjia, a product marketed for treating onychomycosis. Naturally, those considering this treatment are keen to know its effectiveness and whether it can truly eradicate the condition. Let's delve into the matter.

I. Is Liangjia Effective?

Liangjia is primarily applied externally, twice daily, for a duration of one to two months. Given the hardness of nails and the limited permeability of the cuticle, topical medications struggle to penetrate the entire nail, making it challenging to eradicate the fungi. While Liangjia can be somewhat effective, eradicating onychomycosis is generally more difficult. An alternative approach involves oral medications that are delivered to the nail bed through the bloodstream, effectively killing the fungi. Examples include terbinafine hydrochloride and itraconazole capsules. Ultimately, seeking proper medical treatment is crucial for overcoming onychomycosis.

II. How to Treat Onychomycosis?

Onychomycosis is among the most stubborn and challenging types of dermatophytosis. Treatment options include oral and topical medications, as well as surgical nail removal. Given the different growth rates of fingernails (100 days for complete replacement) and toenails (approximately 300 days), patience is essential during treatment.

1. Surgical Nail Removal: Suitable for isolated cases, this involves removing the affected nail under local anesthesia. However, it causes significant trauma, bleeding, and risk of infection. Post-surgery pain and recurrence are common, making it a less favored option, especially for patients with conditions like heart disease, hypertension, or diabetes.

2. Oral Medications: Recommended for multiple nails, these include daily doses of terbinafine (250mg for 6-12 weeks) or itraconazole (400mg/day for 7 days, followed by 21 days off, repeating for 3-6 cycles). Fluconazole (150mg, 1-2 times weekly, for over 4 months) is another option. These treatments can cure over 80% of onychomycosis cases but require large doses and prolonged use, necessitating regular monitoring for adverse effects.

3. Topical Therapies: Depending on the medication, these involve local application or wrapping the nail. Techniques include:

Using a nail file (avoid blades to prevent bleeding and infection) to thin irregular nails, ideally every two days.
Applying 30% ice acetic acid topically or soaking nails in 10% solution daily for 3-6 months or more. Thinning the nail before application enhances efficacy.
Local application of antifungal topicals such as terbinafine tincture, amorolfine nail lacquer, or ciclopirox nail paint.

In conclusion, treating onychomycosis requires perseverance. Additionally, addressing other skin infections and chronic systemic diseases, boosting immunity, and adopting a preventive approach are crucial for achieving a complete cure.