How To Destroy Nail Fungus

What Is The Best Cream For Psoriasis

Just like with any medication, the best cream for your psoriasis may be vastly different from the best cream for someone else. There are many different topical therapies on the market for treating psoriasis. You may need to try a few different ones before finding your perfect cream. Always consult your dermatologist or healthcare professional on what the best treatment for your psoriasis may be.

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Nail Fungus: Polish Cream Or Tablets

Nail fungus can be very persistent. Topical treatment with nail polish may take up to one year. Tablets for treating fungal nail infections usually have to be taken for several weeks or months. They are much more effective than topical treatments, but they have more side effects.

Brittle nails and a whitish-yellowish or brownish discoloration are typical signs of nail fungus. The nails may also become thicker and change shape. The affected part of the nail sometimes detaches from the nail bed. The treatment options for nail fungus include nail polishes and creams as well as tablets. Nail polishes and creams are available in pharmacies without a prescription.

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Causes Of Toenail Fungus

• Onychomycosis stems from a number of fungal pathogens, primarily a certain group of fungi known as dermatophytes. Other relatively less common carriers of this infection are yeast and mold.
• Your susceptibility to this type of infection increases with age as older people tend to have increasingly brittle and dry nails that may allow the fungus to slip in through the cracks.
• Direct skin-to-skin contact with people grappling with fungal infections like athletes foot or ringworm on their hands can transmit the fungus onto you, paving the way for a toenail infection.
• A warm, moist environment such as a pool deck or a locker room provide the ideal breeding grounds for these infection-causing fungi. Therefore, people who walk barefoot in such areas tend to pick up this infection quite easily.
• Another common way of catching a fungal nail infection is by sharing an infected nail clipper or towel.
• Moreover, people who are prone to having moisture-ridden nails or often wear sweaty socks and shoes are increasingly predisposed to getting a fungal nail infection all by themselves.

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How Candida Becomes A Whole

Now you may be wondering, how does Candida become a fungal infection? Pathogenic fungi such as Candida have evolved to survive in a human host through morphogenesis, meaning they can change their cell shape and size.8

Candida in particular changes from a rounded cell to an elongated hyphal cell. These elongated hyphal cells can then permeate your gut lining, leading the gut to become leaky. A leaky gut allows the yeast to escape your gut via your bloodstream and colonize other areas of your body, including your toenails and fingernails.

This is how Candida can quickly escalate from a gut issue to a whole-body problem, and why it can be so difficult to pinpoint, as it can affect everything from your brain to your skin.

Its also why I so often see Candida overgrowth in my autoimmune patients. Candida causes leaky gut, which then leads to autoimmune disease. Thats another major reason why its key to correctly identify Candida as the underlying cause of your fungal infection so that you can pursue natural nail fungus treatments before it leads to more serious health conditions.

Complications Regarding Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungal infections are typically painless or at least start off that way. But without proper self-care and treatment, the condition can spiral into a more severe case of nail fungus, which can be painful and may cause irretrievable damage to your nails.

Moreover, the toenail infection can sprout other serious infections that can spread beyond your feet, particularly if you have a suppressed immune system due to certain medications, diabetes, or other conditions.

Because people with diabetes are already predisposed to reduced blood circulation and nerve supply in their feet, their odds for catching toenail infections as well as bacterial skin infection are quite high.

Thus, it is imperative for people with diabetes to seek professional medical help for any seemingly minor foot injury including a nail fungal infection to avoid any future complications.

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Remedies And Treatments For Toenail Fungus

Over-the-Counter Antifungals

Antifungal remedies help to stop the growth of the fungus. Over-the-counter options do not claim to cure toenail fungus, but they can help to improve the look of the affected nail. These products do not work as well as prescription medications. To cure toenail fungus, a remedy has to penetrate the nail and nail bed. Most over-the-counter remedies for nail fungus are topical and do not penetrate deeply enough.

Trim, Buff, and Thin the Affected Nail

Keeping your nails trim, buffed, and clean helps to prevent the spread of the fungus to other nails. Additionally, buffing the nail can allow topical antifungals to penetrate more deeply. Make sure to wash your hands promptly after touching the affected nail, especially before touching other nails.

Vicks VapoRub

Vicks VapoRub is a product marketed for people with coughs. However, it may also be effective against toenail fungus. One small study showed that after applying it topically each day for 48 weeks, 27.8% of participants fully cured their nail fungus â and 55.6% of participants saw partial improvement. However, more study is needed.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil comes from the Australian tea tree. It is an essential oil traditionally used as an antibacterial and antifungal treatment. Early research shows that it may help with nail fungus when used topically. However, more research is needed. If you do use tea tree oil for toenail fungus, only use it topically.

/6toenail Infection Is A Contagious Disease

Toenail fungus also known as onychomycosis is a common infection of the toenail. This contagious disease can be very painful and can even spread to other parts of the body, if not treated immediately.

The most common symptom of the toenail infection is a white, brown or yellow discoloration of one or more toenails. It may spread and even cause the nails to thicken and crack.

Traditionally, anti-fungal treatments such as terbinafine or fluconazole are used to cure toenail fungus, but these treatments have some serious side effects like upset stomach, dizziness, and jaundice. Most people opt for home remedies to cure this disease.

You can also try these popular home remedies, if your toenail is troubling you.

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Best Way To Get Rid Of Nail Fungus From Under Acrylic Nails

Nail or skin fungus is an outcome of a weak immune system. A body that is not able to defend itself is more likely to face damage as a result of fungal spores. So, it is better to start the nail fungus treatment from within.

The best treatment for nail fungus is diet. Supplements are the best treatment. Probiotics packed source like the Urgent fungus destroyer is a pro at it. Why? Because it will work on the immune system, adding antioxidants to the body.

Moreover, most of the reliable probiotics come with multivitamins. Ascorbic acid, and vitamin E are essential to repair the nail. Another amazing thing about probiotics, is its ultimate result on overall health.

Nail fungus, if not treated on time, can lead to further health complications, and can affect the digestive system. Supplements will take care of such things.

As far as the fastest treatment is concerned, so the cold laser treatment for nail fungus is the fastest. However, for the nail fungus from acrylic nails it is better to go for the affordable treatments.

The cold laser treatment is quite expensive. It must only be considered when there is an emergency, or when prescribed by the doctors.

Talking about the topical creams, they are perfect when you are already taking some other medications such as supplements, try using an urgent fungus destroyer with an effective topical fungal cream to kill the nail fungus from acrylic nails.

What About The Cost Of Oral Medications For Fungal Nails

A further consideration is cost. Because newer oral antifungal agents are very expensive, some insurance companies balk at paying for what they consider a âcosmetic issue,â unless nail fungus causes pain or other functional symptoms. Terbinafine and fluconazole are now available as generic drugs and are quite inexpensive.

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How To Diagnose Yellow Nail Syndrome

You shouldnt ignore a change in nail color or shape, especially if your nails turn yellow. Yellow nails can indicate a problem with your liver or kidney, diabetes mellitus, fungal infections, or psoriasis, which need to be treated by a doctor.

If you develop yellow nails along with swelling or respiratory problems, see a doctor.

A doctor may diagnose yellow nail syndrome if you exhibit primary symptoms of the condition. Your doctor may also order a pulmonary function test to measure how well your lungs work or take a sample of your nail to check for fungus.

How Do You Get A Fungal Nail Infection

Most fungal nail infections occur as a result of the fungi that cause athlete’s foot infecting the nails.

These fungi often live harmlessly on your skin, but they can sometimes multiply and lead to infections. The fungi prefer warm, dark and moist places like the feet.

You’re more likely to get a fungal nail infection if you:

• don’t keep your feet clean and dry
• wear shoes that cause your feet to get hot and sweaty
• walk around barefoot in places where fungal infections can spread easily, such as communal showers, locker rooms and gyms
• have damaged your nails
• have a weakened immune system
• have certain other health conditions, such as diabetes, psoriasis or peripheral arterial disease

Fungal nail infections can be spread to other people, so you should take steps to avoid this if you have an infection.

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Tips To Speed Your Cure And To Prevent Reoccurrence

One way to assure you have figured out how to get rid of toenail fungus for good is having a preventative mindset. Do you go to the pool on a regular basis? What kind of foot wear do you have for the pool? Here are a few more ideas to consider:

Treating Shoes One area many people overlook in the treatment plan is their shoes. Fungi love dark, damp places, which means the interior of the common shoe is like a 5-star hotel! Reduce the temptation to set up residence by cleaning your footwear consistently while you are undergoing treatment. You can purchase commercial sprays or simply create your own with household vinegar.

Replacing Shoes It could be time to replace your practically threadbare sneakers. They may be the most comfortable pair of shoes you have ever owned but they probably house a host of fungi. Choose well fitted shoes that breathe.

Socks Consider spritzing your socks with a vinegar solution before tossing them in the laundry, particularly if laundry day is 24 or more hours away.

Foot Care Pay special attention to your feet, keep them dry, toenails clipped, clean and filed. We can take our feet for granted sometimes, so take a few extra minutes after your shower or before bed to take care of them. Be especially mindful if you have an injured toenail as this is a prime way for fungus to enter.

What Causes Toenail Fungus

As I mentioned above, toenail fungus is often a sign of an underlying infection such as Candida overgrowth. However, plenty of environmental and lifestyle factors can contribute to toenail fungus. Bad bacteria can enter your body via cuts that occur on the skin surrounding your toenail, or in the separation between the nail and toe. Habits such as wearing sweaty socks or tight-fitting closed-toes shoes for a prolonged period of time can also contribute to your toenail fungus.4

If you live in a hot, humid climate, or spend a lot of time in the water, your chances of getting toenail fungus increases. A good rule of thumb for avoiding toenail fungus is to keep your feet as cool, clean, and dry as possible.

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What To Expect With Laser Toenail Fungus Treatment

Think you might have a toenail fungus? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Glover and our team at Mountain View Foot & Ankle Institute.

We diagnose toenail fungus with a comprehensive exam, then we recommend a treatment plan to fit your needs. Laser treatment is one of the best options to effectively and permanently eliminate toenail fungus.

If you choose laser treatment, our team sets up a series of appointments for you. Each session takes about 30 minutes, and theres no downtime required.

Treatment is comfortable, and no anesthesia is required. Theres no need for topical or oral medication, which means the risk of side effects is very low.

During treatment, Dr. Glover aims the laser at your affected toenails. The gentle heat destroys the fungal infection, without affecting the surrounding skin and nail.

Over time, the fungus disappears. The damaged part of your nail grows out, and you can expect to see a healthier, smoother nail take its place.

Theres no need to be embarrassed about unsightly toenails. Find out if you have a toenail fungus and learn more about the benefits of laser treatment at Mountain View Foot & Ankle Institute. Call us at 801-614-2996 or request an appointment online today.

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How To Use Hydrogen Peroxide To Treat Toenail Fungus

Hydrogen peroxide kills fungus instantly.

The fungus is caused by microscopic organisms called dermatophytes that cause deformation and thickening of the toenail over time.

Hydrogen peroxide works to bleach out the yellow spot and slowly kills the fungus within a week.

It quickly disinfects the affected skin as well as the nail bed by eradicating fungus, bacteria, and discolored dead skin.

As a quick bleaching agent, you can apply some on the affected nail bed and watch the discoloration go away in no time.

But what makes it great is that its a super gentle and safe germicidal remedy.

You can use it in two ways. If only one toenail is affected, then simply rinse it thoroughly with warm water and dry it off completely.

Next, take a soft cotton pad or sanitary gauze and soak it in the hydrogen peroxide solution.

Place the cotton pad directly onto the infected nail, making sure to cover the surrounding skin as well.

Allow the toenail bed and the skin to absorb the solution for about 5 minutes. Then take a clean cotton pad and dry the area.

Repeat this at least 4 times a day until you can visibly see improvements. The fungus will slowly start to go away and the discoloration will fade.

However, even when the fungus is completely gone, treat your toenail to this solution once a week for the next 2-3 months for permanent results.

If more than one toenail is infected with fungus, then you need a larger solution.

It will go back to its original color in a few minutes.

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Best Ways To Treat A Nail Fungus

Nail fungus can cause thick, discolored nails, and, for some patients, it can even be painful. An Internet search will bring up plenty of ways to treat the condition, but which ones are best? Dermatologist Dr. Christopher Hull discusses what nail fungus actually is, why its so hard to get rid of, and which treatments work best.

Preventive Measures To Check Toenail Fungus

• Dont share your socks and shoes.
• After touching infected nail, wash your hands properly.
• Make sure that the tools, you are using for the purpose of pedicure or manicure, are sterilized.
• Wear sandals or shoes in public pools and places.
• Dont bite the nails.
• Make use of anti-fungal powders or sprays.
• Instead of trimming your nails with your fingers, use a clean nail clipper.
• Change your socks daily.

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The Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is obtained by the process of fermentation. This process releases healthy bacteria and yeasts, which give it a particularly acidic flavor.

According to this study by the Postgraduate Program in Dentistry in Sao Paulo, Brazil, this also gives the apple cider vinegar its powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties.

• Contains malic acid and acetic acid, two alkaline substances that help to stop yeast infections.
• Regular application disturbs the environment that fungus needs to reproduce.
• It also contains an interesting amount of bioflavonoids, vitamins, minerals and fibers which, among other things, are great for the skin.

Is It Nail Fungus Or Something Else

While a trained professional is the best source of diagnosing conditions, you can get a general idea of what type of situation you have based on the symptoms. Start by looking at your nails and nail bed.

If its a fungal infection, you might see yellow streaks. You might notice pieces of skin and fragments of the nail under the nail. The nail may be discolored and might . The nail itself might be brittle, broken, or thickened.

Several common nail conditions are commonly mistaken for nail fungus, however.

Because other problems share characteristics with fungal infections, your best bet is to consult a doctor to make sure it IS a toenail fungus infection and not something more serious.

The following are nail conditions that have similar symptoms to nail fungus.

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Toenail Fungus Treatment Complications

Here are some things to think about when deciding on a nail fungus treatment.

If you have a disease like diabetes, your doctor will make sure you treat nail fungus. This illness often makes you more likely to have other problems from minor foot issues.

You may not be able to take antifungal pills because of side effects or because they donât work well with other drugs you take. If that’s the case, try a product that goes onto your nail. Your doctor will call this a topical treatment.

Be patient. Your nails may not look “normal” after treatment. It can take as long as a year to 18 months for your nail to grow out a fungus.