How to Cure Toe Nail Fungus: Treatment Options and Prevention Tips
Toe nail fungus is a common infection that grows inside the nails. The most common symptom of toe nail fungus is yellowing or brownish discoloration on the nails.It often starts as an isolated area under the tip of the nail. It can spread to adjacent nails, but can also affect fingernails and foot skin. If not treated, the nail may eventually detach from your toe or finger. It’s considered an infection of the nail by a type of fungus called dermatophyte which leads to thickening and discoloration of the nail
Causes of Toe Nail Fungus
Most nail infections are caused by fungi, bacteria, or other microorganisms.If the condition is severe, and the infection is severe enough, the affected nail may fall off. However, the nail may remain discolored. Fungus of the toe usually occurs after other nails have been infected and the infection has spread. This is why the infection may first appear on a finger or toe. If you have a thickening toenail, the infection may be in the same place as a discolored nail.
Tuberculosis is the leading cause of toe nail fungus. Although TB may not cause symptoms, it can still be a risk factor for toe nail fungus. Heat and heat exposure, rapid weight loss, leaving sweaty shoes and socks on for an extended period of time and lack of hygiene
Symptoms of Toe Nail Fungus
The most common symptom is the appearance of a white ring or white spot on the nail. Other symptoms include: yellow or brown discoloration or patch on the nail, white lines or white dots, under the nail, pain ,redness on the outside of the nail may look like a short cut with white tip , rash or small red dots, Pus at the base of the nail ,yellowing or discoloration on the side of the nail ,a red smooth spot on the tip of the nail and white or black fungus growth under the nail .
In most cases, the discoloration will cause no pain.
Prevention of Toe Nail Fungus
Prevention options include wearing shoes that allow air circulation and avoiding exposure to possible sources of fungus such as public pools, shared spaces like locker rooms, and other people’s toenails. If you’re prone to infection, make sure you get rid of your shoes once you get home from work. Avoiding you work and before you get into bed will help you stay away from germs and infections. Also, make sure you don’t wear soft, porous shoes. The material of your shoes could be harboring germs, making you susceptible to toe nail fungus. Keep your feet and hands clean. Wear clean, dry socks and shoes. Treat infected areas with antifungal medication. Fungi grow where they are not usually found, so to avoid infection wear clean socks and shoes and keep your nails trimmed.
Washing your hands
Shoe shopping
Vacuuming and cleaning your house regularly
Avoiding flip flops
Exercising on clean and dry skin
Getting rid of moldy areas in your house
Treating your house
Treatments
There is no single cure for toe nail fungus, but there are a variety of treatments available. Each treatment may take several months to complete. Doctors may suggest treatment with oral anti-fungal medication. Antifungals must be taken twice daily, and can take the form of a cream, pill, or gel. An infected toenail can be removed by a nail specialist, depending on the infection severity and other factors.
The most common treatment for toe nail fungus is to wear mittens or a cast to protect the affected nail. You can also wear a loafer to protect your feet. Foot scrub is recommended to make sure that bacteria don’t get into the skin when you’re wearing the cast or mittens. Topical medications can also be helpful if the infection is severe.
Wearing a nail polish
Shampoos
Vitamin C. Natural products
Taking zinc supplements. zinc supplementation can help control nail fungus.
Prescription medications
Toe nail fungus medication is available over-the-counter and can be taken daily for up to 2 months. The medications include:
Benzathine penicillin G
Cimetidine
Xanthan gum
Toenail fungus medication
Generally, medications used to treat toenail fungus are prescribed as either a capsule (e.g. PAM) or an injection (e.g. liquid). For some medications, patients may receive the capsule in a pack.Sometimes comes in the form of a long lasting gel that you apply directly to the nail. The medications usually contain prescription-strength anthelmintics, which break down the fungal spores.
Antifungal creams
In cases of invasive toenail fungus, a topical antifungal cream can be used. This treatment usually lasts for 5-10 days.
Home remedies
There are many home remedies that can help treat toe nail fungus. These include:
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural alternative to prescription medications. It can be mixed with coconut or olive oil and used to rinse the affected area with vinegar. This helps to kill any harmful fungi on the nails. Vinegar can also be applied directly to the affected nail, or on the skin around the affected area.
Use warm, soapy water to wash your hands
It is best to wash the feet thoroughly with warm water, and then pat them dry. Avoid applying any other harsh chemicals or soaps to your feet or hands. Use antibacterial soap or gently use a soft wash cloth to scrub. Avoid harsh soaps, such as chlorine-based body washes and anti-bacterial soap.
Conclusion
Fungus is a common but harmless fungal infection that can be a problem for some people, especially those who already have an allergic response to certain conditions. If you have fungus or bacterial infection on your nails, a comprehensive and quick treatment plan will help you get back to normal.
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