Keep feet clean and dry; change socks daily (or more if sweaty)
Wear breathable shoes; rotate shoes to allow drying
Use moisture-wicking socks; avoid tight footwear
Trim nails straight across and file down thickened areas regularly
Disinfect nail tools after each use (or use disposable files)
Apply an over-the-counter antifungal nail treatment as directed
Use a prescription oral antifungal if recommended by a clinician (often for severe or widespread cases)
Consider prescription topical antifungal solutions for mild cases (as directed)
If advised by a clinician, consider nail debridement to reduce thickness and improve medication penetration
Use an antifungal cream or spray on surrounding skin (tinea pedis/athlete’s foot) if present
Treat athlete’s foot promptly to reduce reinfection risk
Apply antifungal powder or spray to shoes and insoles
Avoid sharing nail clippers/files and don’t pick or cut cuticles
Replace or disinfect old shoes and socks; wash socks in hot water if possible
Seek medical care if the nail is painful, spreading, causing significant thickening/discoloration, or not improving after several weeks of treatment
Seek urgent care if you have diabetes, poor circulation, immune suppression, or signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth, pus)