Treatment options for toenail fungus include:

• Topical antifungal treatments: Creams, gels, or lacquers can be applied directly to the affected toenail.
• Oral antifungal medications: Prescription medications like terbinafine (Lamisil) or itraconazole (Sporanox) are taken orally to treat fungal infections more deeply.
• Laser therapy: Some clinics offer laser treatments to kill the fungus under the nail.
• Surgical removal: In severe cases, a doctor may remove the infected toenail.
• Home remedies: Over-the-counter antifungal powders or ointments and natural treatments (e.g., tea tree oil) may help, but it's important to see a doctor for persistent infections.

‍

Toenail fungus rarely goes away on its own without treatment. While the infection may not always cause immediate symptoms, it can spread and worsen over time. It’s important to treat toenail fungus as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the nail and to stop the infection from spreading to other toes.

Yes, toenail fungus is contagious. The fungus can spread through direct contact with an infected person or by touching surfaces where the fungus resides, such as communal showers, swimming pools, or gym floors. It can also spread from one toenail to another or to other parts of the body, especially if hygiene is poor.

If left untreated, toenail fungus can lead to permanent damage to the nail, causing it to become thickened, misshapen, or even fall off. The infection may also spread to other nails or parts of the foot, and in rare cases, it can lead to a more serious skin or bone infection, especially in people with weakened immune systems.