An Established Fungal Infection Is Hard To Eradicate But You Can Stop Its Spread And Improve Your Toenail’s Appearance
Toenail fungus isn’t a pressing health problem. Yet a fungal infection can ruin the appearance of your nails and cause pain as it lifts the nail away from the nail bed. And fungal infections are notoriously difficult to get rid of. Most often, you should consider fungal toenail a condition to be managed rather than cured.
Side Effects Of Toenail Fungus Medication
One of the many benefits of using a homeopathic remedy is that there are little to no adverse side effects. Topical treatments often prescribed to treat toenail fungus can potentially burn or blister the skin. Oral medications for treating onychomycosis can cause liver or gastrointestinal damage. Be sure to read your medications list of potential side effects. Consult your pharmacist, healthcare provider, or specialist if you are concerned about side effects of prescription drugs.
Unsafe Home Remedies For Toenail Fungus
Although there are many effective home remedies for toenail fungus, there are still some natural and household products that can cause more harm than good. For example, you should never use bleach to get rid of toenail fungus. Its use may be toxic to the skin and cause severe skin irritation when not used properly.
Additionally, you should never use overly hot water when performing the variety of foot soaks mentioned above. Excessive heat to the nails and skin will not kill fungusand extreme temperatures may injure the skin causing burns, blisters, and sometimes permanent skin damage. Always use lukewarm water for soaking.
Urine is another home remedy that should be avoided. Previously, it had been believed to be effective against fungal infections due to its urea contents. While urea can help soften the nail bed to make it easier for antifungal medication to be absorbed, urine does not contain enough urea to be effective.
And, finally, do not remove or excessively trim toenails at home. Fungal toenails should be properly trimmed and maintained on a regular basis, but do not remove too much nail. If toenail clipping or removal is not done properly, damage to the nail bed may cause additional injury to the nail, which can be irreversible. There also is the risk of causing bacterial infections when the damaged nail is not removed properly.
Recommended Reading: Fume Extractor For Nail Salon
How To Prevent Both Foot And Toenail Fungus
While toenail fungus and foot fungus arent the same condition, the following tips can help you prevent both, says Sundling:
- Practice good hygiene, such as keeping your feet clean.
- Alternate your shoes during the week. Your feet sweat all day long. Alternating your shoes allows them to dry out, so the fungus cant survive.
- Wear moisture-wicking socks that help dry out shoes and kill fungus. You can find these at running stores and athletic stores. If your socks are exceptionally sweaty, changing them more than once per day can help.
- Wear shoes in public places like locker rooms, pools, and gyms to limit exposure to fungus.
Question 5 Of : Download Article
Don’t Miss: How Can I Get Rid Of Fungal Nail Infection
What Are The Symptoms
Symptoms of athlete’s foot vary from person to person. Some people have severe discomfort, while others have few or no symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
- Peeling, cracking, and scaling of the feet.
- Redness, blisters, or softening and breakdown of the skin.
- Itching, burning, or both.
Your symptoms may depend on the type of athlete’s foot you have.
- Toe web infection usually occurs between the fourth and fifth toes. The skin gets scaly, peels, and cracks. If you get a bacterial infection, the skin may break down even more.
- Moccasin-type infection may start with a little soreness on your foot. Then the skin on your sole or heel may become thick and crack. In severe cases, the toenails get infected.
- Vesicular infection usually starts with a sudden outbreak of fluid-filled blisters. The blisters are usually on the sole but can appear anywhere on your foot. You may also get a bacterial infection.
Eat Yoghurt And Probiotics
Yoghurt and other probiotics have an ample amount of good bacteria that help stave off many fungal infections. These fight off microbes that cause these infections.
Fermented foods are another excellent source of probiotics. If these are not helping, you could use probiotic supplements that have more concentrated dosages of good bacteria. Read more on the health benefits of yoghurt.
Also Check: Does Hair Skin And Nails Gummies Really Work
Malignant Fungi And Related Factors
The causative agent of the disease are dermatomycetes, the most common of which is the genus Trichophyton. They live almost everywhere – in pools and beaches, in people’s shoes and animal hair, but the disease is not always provoked. Creating an infection gate through which the dermatomycete can penetrate to a sufficient depth is an important factor.
Fungus between the toes appears when the barrier functions of the skin are weakened:
- When wearing tight, closed shoes. This is especially true for the hot season, when widespread sweat creates conditions for skin maceration, when it becomes a habitat for many microorganisms.
- Abrasions and scratches are ready doors for fungus to enter. If you have these, you should not risk walking barefoot in the pool, sauna and steam bath and trying on someone else’s shoes on your bare feet.
- An effective remedy for fungus between the toes should be sought by fans of cheap pedicures in salons of dubious fame. The procedure itself involves cutting the cuticles and cleansing the skin, and non-sterile instruments can be “enriched” with fungus.
Whats The Connection Between Vicks Vaporub And Toenail Fungus
Youâre probably familiar with the strong smell of this over-the-counter topical cough suppressant by Procter & Gamble. Giving Vicks VapoRub its infamous smell is camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol.
The connection between toenail fungus and VapoRub comes down to the two active ingredients: camphor, eucalyptus oil. These ingredients have been seen to have antifungal properties.
While their intended use is to soothe a cough when applied to the chest, there are some that swear itâs strong enough to kill toenail fungus.
Toenail fungus can be caused by a few different strains of fungi. Can VapoRub act as a catch-all and kill all toenail fungus?
Letâs find out.
Recommended Reading: Where Can I Buy Polygel Nail Kit
Fungus Between The Toes: Causes Symptoms And Treatment
Unbearable itching and redness between the toes, sharp pains when walking are the first signs of the most common dermatological problem – fungal skin lesions. The mycelium of the fungus, which sprouts from the delicate epithelium of the skin, gradually “spreads” to the entire plantar surface of the feet, causing unpleasant moisture and broken parts, painful cracks and deformation of the nails.
Keep Them Dryand Clean
SAL3 Salicylic Acid Sulfur Soap Bar
SAL3 Salicylic Acid Sulfur Soap Bar
To prevent fungus from gaining a toehold, try a 10 percent sulfur-based soap for its natural antifungal properties, says Sarina Elmariah, MD, a dermatologist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Dry feet thoroughly , and sprinkle them with antifungal powder if youre prone to athletes foot. Another good idea, says Dr. Kramer, is to spray some disinfectant on a rag and use it to wipe the insides of your shoes every time you take them off. This kills any fungus spores.
Also Check: How To Grow And Strengthen Nails
Athletes Foot Home Remedies That Actually Work
posted: Jan. 22, 2021.
7 Athletes Foot Home Remedies that Actually Work
What is Athletes Foot?
Athletes foot is a fungal infection that starts between the toes of people who get sweaty feet and wear tight, enclosed shoes for long periods. Also called tinea pedis, it appears as a scaly, itchy rash that can also cause a burning sensation. People with athletes foot also tend to have raw, moist skin between the toes.
Athletes foot is easily treatable, so using the right home remedies can help you effectively eradicate it.
Here are some remedies that may work.
1. Hydrogen Peroxide
It may sound like a dangerous chemical, but hydrogen peroxide is an effective home remedy for treating athletes foot. The chemical works by killing all surface bacteria and funguses on the skin. When applied directly to the affected areas, it disinfects the area, allowing the skin to heal and form a barrier against new infections. Before treating with hydrogen peroxide, check with your podiatrist or family doctor.
2. OTC Treatments
Over-the-counter treatments like antifungal powders, sprays, and lotions can also effectively treat athletes foot. After applying them for two to three weeks, most symptoms disappear, and reinfection does not occur. However, you must complete the prescribed period of application to avoid a resurgence.
3. Tea Tree Oil
4. Rubbing Alcohol
5. Sea Salt
Keeping Your Feet Dry, Aired, and Clean
What Are The Treatments For Athlete’s Foot
Treat athlete’s foot at the first sign of itchiness.
Most cases of athlete’s foot can be cured with over-the-counter antifungal products and basic good hygiene. Wash and dry your feet every morning and evening, change socks or stockings daily, and don’t wear the same shoes day after day to allow them time to dry completely before wearing them again. Sprinkle antifungal powder on feet and in your shoes daily. Antifungal creams and sprays are also effective at managing the infection. Continue treatment for one to two weeks after the infection has cleared to prevent it from recurring.
Make sure your feet get plenty of air. If you can’t go barefoot or wear sandals, wear synthetic socks which will wick away moisture. Cotton tends to trap the moisture and promote fungal growth. Wear shoes made of a porous material.
If not treated properly and promptly, athlete’s foot can be very stubborn. Even when treated with antifungal drugs, the infection may take several weeks to disappear and may come back after treatment.
Most of the time it responds well to these over-the-counter interventions. However, more severe cases may need to be seen by a doctor.
Also Check: How To Take Off Powder Nails At Home
The Danger Of Waiting To Treat The Fungus
The greatest danger of not treating the foot or toenail fungus is that it can spread to other parts of the body, such as the hands and groin.
If for some reason you cant treat your toenails or your feet right away, at least use an antifungal topical cream on the surrounding skin, Dr. Ng says. That will help keep it from spreading and keep the skin intact.
Which Type Of Athlete’s Foot Do You Have
There are three different types of athlete’s foot:
- Interdigital or toe web type is the most common and usually begins between the two smallest toes. It can cause itching and burning sensations, peeling or flaking skin, and can spread from between the toes to the underside of the foot.
- Moccasin can affect a more widespread area on the foot. Often the first symptoms are mild irritation and a feeling of skin dryness. This can affect the sole and sides of the foot and can be itchy and scaly. The affected skin may crack and become very sore.
- Vesicular athlete’s foot is less common. It’s characterized by fluid-filled blisters that can easily become infected. You should not attempt to treat this with home remedies as it could be cellulitis and would require antibiotics.
Recommended Reading: Nail Tech Schools In Massachusetts
How Bad Can Athlete’s Foot Get
Athletes foot can get very bad. In some cases, the blisters can introduce bacteria that can cause severe infections that require hospitalization.
From Our Google Reviews
Id give him TEN stars if I could! He is amazing! I found Dr. Moore after having an issue with contact dermatitis on my foot. He was literally the first doctor listed within 10 miles that took my insurance. Im always leery of going with the first doc I find, but in this case, boy did I hit the jackpot!! He is a great doc with an amazing bedside manner! I would highly recommend him to anyone! Ive even got my husband going to him too! He loves him as well!
-Brenda
Whos Most Likely To Get Athletes Foot
The development or spread of athletes foot can commonly occur in:
- People who often use public pools, showers, or fitness centers
- People with obesity
- People who wear closed shoes
- People who have conditions that compromise how well the immune system functions
- People who work in professions that require industrial footwear, such as miners and soldiers
- People living in long-term care facilities and other communal institutions
You May Like: What Nail Colors Look Good On Pale Skin
Treatment Of Fungus Between The Toes With Folk Remedies
Traditional medicine has collected many recipes to combat the fungus, including products from kitchen cabinets, as well as many exotic herbs and medicines. The most accessible of them are:
- Iodine, daily lubrication of lesions that bring visible results in a week.
- Hydrogen peroxide, which gained popularity thanks to the work of a famous doctor. The ability of the fungus to destroy cell membranes and form a film on the surface of the damaged skin provides a quick recovery from the disease.
If you have gone through a lot of means and are thinking about how to treat the fungus between your toes, you should also try the effect of vinegar. Despite the fungi living in a slightly acidic environment, it does not tolerate an increase in pH. Lubrication of the affected areas with a solution of 9% vinegar and water in a ratio of 1: 8 gives positive results in 2-3 weeks.
The most popular remedies in folk medicine – onions and garlic also have an antifungal effect. Corn made from them is mixed with petroleum jelly in a ratio of 1: 1 and applied to the affected skin before bedtime.
If you have not decided how to treat the fungus between the toes, do not forget about the destruction of shoes and personal hygiene items. This guarantees that there will be no relapses in the near future.
What Helps To Get Rid Of Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is very common and usually doesn’t cause any serious problems. But it can make skin itch, crack, and look unattractive. The fungus may spread to the nails, and sometimes to other areas of skin although that rarely happens. The infection can usually be treated effectively with over-the-counter creams, gels or sprays from the pharmacy.
Athlete’s foot fungi grow particularly well in the areas between our toes. It is often moist and warm there, and the skin on our feet also provides the fungus with nutrients to feed on. Topical treatment such as creams or gels can usually successfully get rid of the infection. It’s very rarely necessary to take tablets.
To prevent infection, it’ s a good idea to wear flip-flops at the swimming pool or in the sauna. If you already have athlete’s foot, you should change your socks and towels often, and wash them at 60 degrees Celsius or more. Paying close attention to hygiene also helps to stop others from being infected.
You May Like: How To Tell The Difference Between Nail Fungus And Psoriasis
See A Dermatologist To Pinpoint The Problem
Foot fungus wont just go away on its own, Dr. Ng says. If you think you have foot or toenail fungus, see your dermatologist, she says. There are several tests that your dermatologist can perform to identify exactly whats going on.
Its important to be aware that there are other diseases which can cause nail changes, she says. For example, we do see things like squamous cell skin cancers in the nail beds and even melanomas, which have a brownish or blackish discoloration.
Using Bleach To Kill Fungus
Bleach can quickly kill fungus on nonporous surfaces, like shower tiles. Before getting to work, put on a mask, protective glasses and rubber gloves and open the windows and/or turn on a fan. Bob Vila recommends pouring 1 cup of bleach into a gallon of warm water. Dip a stiff-bristled brush into this solution and then scrub briskly. For tougher mold, pour some of the solution into a spray bottle, spray it on the area and allow it to sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing.
Bleach can also be used to remove mold from upholstery and fabrics. Since mold spores spread, first take the item outside. Then, use a stiff-bristled brush to scrape off as much mold as possible. If the fabric is white, you can pretreat it with the homemade bleach spray. Otherwise, use a store-bought stain remover. Be sure to read the product label to see if it is safe for your upholstery or fabric.
Do not let the homemade solution sit on the fabric for more than a few minutes otherwise, you could ruin it. After treating the mold, you can wash the fabric with detergent and hot water. It may be necessary to complete this process more than once to get rid of all the mold. Also, be sure to let it dry completely otherwise, new mold may appear.
Things You Will Need
Read Also: How To Remove Nail Glue
