Do you need some home remedies because of discolored and ugly toenails? Toenail fungus can be embarrassing and annoying, but there are some methods that may to help treat and even prevent it. Although in the majority of all cases these home remedies may only provide temporary relief. More evasive action such as laser treatment has been known to cure the root problem.
The Cause of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is due to microscopic organisms that thrive in moist, warm environments and that can invade your skin through extremely small cuts or the small separation between the nail bed and nail.
Wearing shoes can aggravate the condition; as well as less blood circulation in the toes that makes it more difficult for your immune system to find and stop the infection.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms of toe fungus can include white or yellow spots that appear in the actual toe nail. The color of the nail will then change to black or brownish-green. After this, the nail thickens. It can also become brittle or crumbly and may smell foul.
Do You Need Home Remedies To Stop Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus won’t go away on its own. It must be treated. If it is not treated, the nail can fall off, there may be excruciating pain, or you may need surgery to remove the nail. It can also be spread to other toes and to the area between toes, resulting in “jock itch”.
Common Home Remedies
Listerine
Listerine mouthwash is an antiseptic, so if you soak the infect nail or nails for 20 minutes in undiluted Listerine twice a day, it can stop the fungus and kill the bacteria.
Tea Tree Oil
Rub this onto the infected nail in the morning and at night.
Vinegar
Using equal parts of water and vinegar, soak your nails twice a day for at least 20 minutes.
Rubbing Alcohol
Soak the nails in undiluted rubbing alcohol for 20 minutes two times per day.
Any of the above treatments may or may not work. If these treatments do not stop or remove the fungus, consider medical treatment. If you are a diabetic, you should talk with your doctor immediately for toenail fungus.
Toenail fungus can recur; it is important to learn how to prevent this disease.
Prevention of Toenail Fungus
Clean Your Feet
Shower daily using antibacterial soap. When you step out of the shower, make sure to dry your feet really well.
Flip-Flops
Wearing flip-flops or other sandals while in the shower (public or otherwise) can help prevent toenail fungus. It’s also a good idea to wear them at pools and the beach.
Socks
It is important to wear 100 percent cotton socks and change them whenever they are wet (or daily at the least).
Cut Toenails
Keeping your toenails cut straight and short can prevent toenail fungus.
Anti-Fungal Powder
Using special foot powder in shoes and socks can help.
