The most common cause of infection in the toenail is fungus. This condition is clinically ranked in as high as twenty percent of all disorders affecting toenails. Onychomycosis is a medical term for this condition. Toenail fungus infections affect six to eight percent of the adult population.
Fungal infection
There are many types of fungus infections that can be found in the toenails of those with afflicted feet. The most common form of onychomycosis, also known as dermatophytes and clinically called tinea unguium, is due to a fungal condition called dermatophytes. Affected individuals are always looking for home remedies for toenail fungus because of the severity of this condition.
Toenails that have been affected by a fungal infection will develop a thickening appearance. It will have a discoloration that ranges from yellow to cloudy-like, or even brownish. Infected nails will have a rough texture and crumble-like appearance. Sometimes the crumbling effects can lead to the affected nail literally falling off.
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The infectious fungus will cause debris to form beneath the nail and emit a foul-smelling odor. These fungal-affected toenails usually don’t present any pain or other symptoms. The severity of the condition can cause discomfort when wearing shoes. Toenail fungus home remedies are often sought out by those suffering from this condition. Toenail fungal infection prevention can be made easier by determining the source of the infection.
Toenail fungus can be caused by either direct or indirect contact with someone with the infection. These areas and social environments are hotbeds for fungal infections to the skin. Because of their close anatomical proximity, the fungus that affects one nail can easily spread to other nails. Athletic athletes and others who wear tight fitting shoes, socks, or hosiery are at greater risk of developing infectious toenail fungal disease. Individuals who don’t dry their feet properly after showering, bathing, or exercising can sometimes develop toenail fungus. Tea tree oil is one treatment for toenail fungal infections.
Tea tree oil
It has natural antiseptic properties and fungicidal properties, which can help to combat the fungus. Pure tea tree oil can be combined with olive oil to treat toenail fungal infections. To prevent toenail fungal infection, you can apply a few drops of pure tea tree oil to your toenails and rub the nails daily. Toenail fungus home remedies also offer a preventative treatment. Healthy looking toenails will be possible with such a high concentration of antiseptic immersion. Another natural treatment for toenail fungal infection is soaking.
Make a mixture of equal parts natural apple cider vinegar with warm water. For fifteen to twenty minutes, soak the toenails in this mixture. Use a hair dryer on a warm setting to dry your feet and toes. The person with the condition should be careful to dry all moisture between and around their toes when using a hair dryer.
Final note
Alpha hydroxy acids creams are a good choice for a bedtime regimen. Apply the cream to the affected feet, with a particular focus on the toes. This cream can be applied to the skin for up to a week. It will exfoliate rough and dense skin, which is the most susceptible to contracting and encouraging the growth of fungus. Even if your toenails do not have fungus, it is worth a nightly practice to prevent further infection.