DEAR DR. GOTT:
I have a problem that baffles all of the internists, family physicians, dermatologists and alternative health experts I have consulted over the years.
I stopped using acrylic nails about 15 years ago. I now do my own manicures with tools that are sterilized weekly. Despite these precautions, I have nail fungus on at least 5 of my nails. I understand that until I treat the skin under the nail, the fungus will continue. A year ago, a black/green mold appeared on my right thumbnail. The nail than fell off. When it started to grow back, so did the fungus.
This black/green mold concerns me. It is slowly spreading to more nails and is very unsightly. What is causing this to happen? How can I get rid of it?
I don’t have my hands in water excessively and when I do, I wear rubber gloves. I have tried every over-the-counter product including tea tree oil.
DEAR READER:
Nail fungus is a common disorder that leads to thick, yellow misshapen nails.
I tell most of my readers with this condition to try Vicks VapoRub. However, you may have more success using a new product, called Miranel. This product was introduced after the date of your letter. Miranel is specially designed to penetrate the skin and nail. This allows the product to work faster and more effectively than does Vicks.
Black/green “mold” is not typical for nail fungus. While you may wish to try to treat it yourself, I urge you to consider seeing your primary care physician. Ask for a nail culture. This involves taking a scraping of the nail fungus and “mold”, then analyzing it in the laboratory. The lab technicians can then determine what type of organism or organisms are present and the best way to treat them. You may have two or more types of fungus necessitating the use of prescription medication.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Dr. Gott’s Compelling Home Remedies”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
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