You Dont Cut Your Toenails Properly
Next, your toenails might be curved because you dont cut them properly.
A lot of people instinctually cut their toenails by following the curve of the toe. Even though it might look weird to cut your toenails straight across, this is actually the best way to cut them.
If you cut your toenails by following the curve of your toe, you could cause your toenail to grow back curved.
If you cut along the side of the toenail near the cuticle, you could predispose yourself to an ingrown toenail.
This could lead to an infection, which is a complication you defiantly want to avoid!
To stay away from this issue, make sure you cut your toenails straight across.
Read Also: How To Stop Nail Fungus From Spreading
Main Advice To Follow#
The main advice to follow is that most complications that come from a nail fungus infection normally start because it was ignored. This is very easy to do because it can be difficult to spot and even if you think that you have a toenail fungus infection it does not limit with your day-to-day activities to start.
Bear in mind if it gets more severe it could cause problems with you walking, it can also spread quite easily, and this is the last thing that you want if you want to try maintain your foot health and your well-being.
Take our advice and do not just wait for this to go away on its own the first course of action should be visiting your doctor because they will normally be able to tell you exactly what to do, they will also refer you to a foot doctor and they are the person to see for all of the remedies.
The other reason to go straight to the doctor is that they will normally prescribe exactly the right medicine that you need and that means that you are not having to second-guess or try to use a lot of non-prescription remedies that will not work for you.
Which Treatment Is Right For Me
Nail fungus is usually harmless. But many people find discolored or thickened nails unpleasant to look at and want to get rid of the fungus as soon as possible. Fungal nail infections can also spread, and may infect other people. Regardless of the treatment you choose, it will take a while until the nail looks normal again. Its especially important to be patient where toenails are concerned. It can take a year for a healthy big toenail to grow back. Nail fungus can sometimes be very persistent despite treatment. It can also come back after successful treatment.
Topical treatment isnt likely to get rid of a fungal nail infection. Treatment with tablets is considerably more effective and takes less time. But some people cant take tablets because of the very rare, yet serious risks. How you feel about the pros and cons of the different treatment options is a personal matter. You can also discuss the options with your doctor.
Dont Miss: How To Get Rid Of Toenail Fungus In A Week
Read Also: How To Fix Nail Fungus
When Fungal Nails Attack Fight Back
After a great workout you just want to hop in the locker room shower, but then you realize youve forgotten your flip-flops. Suddenly the enemy appears. Its too late. You are surrounded. There is no chance of escape from the dreaded condition known as onychomycosis, a.k.a. fungal nails.
A fungal nail infection occurs when microscopic organisms attack your nail through a small opening like a cut. These fungi love to hang out in warm, moist places, so you are especially vulnerable to their advances when walking barefoot around public areas like swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. Sweaty shoes are a fungi favorite as well. The worst part is, once you are infected, the fight against fungus may become an all-out war!
Also Check: How To Get Rid Of Fungus In Toes
Can A Nail Fungal Infection Be Prevented Or Avoided
Avoid situations that expose you to a fungus. This includes walking barefoot in locker rooms and having wet hands and feet often. This might be a problem for people who work in restaurants or house cleaning. People in a family can get nail fungal infections at the same time. This happens when their immune systems arent able to fight off the infection. Or it could be the infection is spread when using the same towels. It is important to routinely clean your shower, tub, and bathroom to lower risk of fungal infection.
Also Check: Can Listerine Kill Toenail Fungus
Is Toenail Fungus Really Such A Problem
If youre thinking you can just live with it, we dont advise letting toenail fungus go untreated. Its an insidious problem, and without treatment, you have to deal with the discomfort of the nail as well as feeling self-conscious about its unsightliness.
If you let a nail fungus infection go for too long, several problems emerge. The infected nail can become misshapen and increasingly separated from your nail bed. Itching and pain are unpleasant side effects if theyre too severe, you can have trouble wearing shoes or walking.
You need to be especially attentive to treating toenail fungus if your immune system is compromised. If youre living with diabetes, its critical not to ignore the fungus. Even a mild infection like this can snowball into something more serious, like cellulitis, a severe bacterial skin infection.
Another problem is that untreated fungus eventually can spread to either neighboring toenails or to the skin of your foot, causing athletes foot. Possibly the worst outcome of untreated nail fungus is needing to have your nail surgically removed.
When Should I See My Doctor About A Rash
Most rashes are not serious. But its always a good idea to see your healthcare provider if you have skin changes. Your provider can recommend a course of treatment to help you feel better and diagnose any underlying conditions.
- Is all over your body.
- Starts suddenly and spreads quickly.
- Is painful, blistered or infected.
- Happens along with a fever.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Fungal skin rashes can be uncomfortable and itchy, but they are treatable. See your healthcare provider if you notice any rashes or changes in your skin. Typically, a course of antifungal creams will clear up the rash and relieve the itchiness. Your healthcare provider can also discuss preventive steps to keep the rash from coming back.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 09/25/2020.
References
Recommended Reading: Does Tea Tree Oil Really Work For Toenail Fungus
Read Also: How To Kill Toenail 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.
Read Also: How To Get Rid Of White Toenail Fungus
How Is Ringworm Treated
Using over-the-counter antifungal creams, sprays, or powders may solve a mild infection. More serious infections may need prescription medicine, either topical or in pill/syrup form.
Ringworm on the nails or scalp usually is treated with medicine taken by mouth for 1 to 3 months. An antifungal shampoo prescribed by the doctor can help prevent the spread to other people.
Your child should use the medicine as long as is recommended, even if the rash seems to be getting better. If not, the infection can come back and spread to other parts of the body.
To help heal the skin, its important to keep the affected area clean and dry. Your child should:
- Wash and then dry the area with a clean towel.
- Apply the antifungal cream, powder, or spray as directed on the label.
- Change clothing every day.
- Treat any other fungal infections, such as athletes foot.
Read Also: How Can You Get Toenail Fungus
Does A Fungal Toe Nail Infection Clear Up On Its Own
So with the help of doctor google I have diagnosed that my dh has a fungal nail Infection on his big toe nail. Will it sort itself out or does he need to get some treatment for it. It looks horrible.
Needs treatment. Stop it before it spreads to other nails.Go see GP if you get free prescriptions.I personally used Boots own one that is like clear nail varnish.
Oh god it spreads? No we donât get free prescriptions but I will have a look on Boots website and get some ordered. Thanks. Iâm assuming that fungal nail canât be passed on?!
it csn, but often isnt.. one of my toes had it deep and the other seemed to only get it on a litgle triangle. It took me three years to fully get rid. GP for tablets based on particular strain, combined with cutting the nail persistently to below the main area..like really vutting nearly 60% of the nail off all the way through tablets, then folloed with hardests crean 8incliding cutting all possibpe nail off.All crumbly nails dug out, disinfected and fungal cream apllied. Rubbing into skin where cut off nail was etc etc.. Once a line of clear nail appears from the bottom and gets to the top ypu ate there.. Its worth it as when its really gone properly, for me, it has stayed gone.The tablets, cream etc didnt work without the cutting back and digging out. .. That was the most essential bit..I think i used camesten in the end..
What Causes Fungal Nail
Fungal nail is most commonly caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes which infect the nail and the nail bed. It is highly contagious and transmitted in places like shower cubicles, swimming pools and changing rooms where people are barefoot. Toenail fungus can also be transferred in nail salons where the same nail accessories are used for many customers. Furthermore, nail trauma can also increase the chances of developing a fungal nail infection.
You May Like: Why Do I Have Toenail Fungus
Get Rid Of That Toenail Fungus Before The Holidays
The days of flip-flops and summer tans may be long gone, but that ugly toenail fungus is still with you. You may have thought the frosty temperatures of winter would help resolve it, but unfortunately, toenail fungus wont go away on its own. Toenail fungus can even worsen in winter from being overheated in fuzzy socks and warm boots.
Think you have toenail fungus and arent sure where to start? Here are some tips from Errol Gindi, DPM to help you get rid of that toenail fungus just in time for the holidays.
The Lowdown On Toenail Fungus
The Lowdown on Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is probably the topic that readers have asked us most about over the years. Thats not surprising since it is so common, so unpleasant, and so hard to treat. The fungus causes the toenail, particularly on the big toe, to thicken and discolor the end may separate from the nail bed. Often, the nail is so thick you cant cut it. In severe cases, the nail may detach and fall off.
Medically known as onychomycosis, toenail fungus is increasingly common, possibly because of lifestyle changes and an aging population. Though estimates vary, about 10 percent of Americans have it, and this increases to about 20 percent in people over 60 and up to 50 percent of those over 70. More men than women get it.
Diabetes, vascular problems, and impaired immunity are risk factors. About one-third of people with diabetes have toenail fungus. Smokers are at increased risk, too. It may be related to being sedentary, poor foot hygiene, nail trauma, family history, and genetics. Theres also a strong link between toenail fungus and athletes foot. Moist socks and shoes present an ideal environment for fungi, which helps explain why toenail fungus is less common in societies where people dont wear shoes. On the other hand, going barefoot in damp areas also increases the risk.
Mainstream toenail fungus treatments
The Lowdown on Toenail Fungus
Mainstream toenail fungus treatments
Read Also: How To Treat Toenail Fungus Fast
Don’t Miss: Do Over The Counter Nail Fungus Treatments Work
Does Toenail Fungus Go Away On Its Own
Fungal Nail Infections can be easily ignored in its early stages. It goes unnoticed or neglected because someone might not consider it urgent. With day-to-day work and activities, one might not have time to get a minor discoloration on the toenail. As time goes by, the minor discoloration can get worse and cause the nail to thicken.
Toenail fungus does not heal on its own. It does not usually cause pain, making it easy to ignore. It may not seem like a big deal now because you can cover it up, but it may be a cause for concern when it gets worse.
If you leave toenail fungus untreated, the nail can grow thicker and harder. It can grow deformed and lose its shape. This will make it difficult to walk or cause pain while walking. It can also make wearing shoes uncomfortable and painful.
Because fungi spread easily, if you leave toenail fungus untreated, it can spread to the other parts of the body. It will begin spreading to the other parts of the foot and cause athletes foot. The athletes feet cause itchy, red, and scaly skin.
If you have diabetes or other diseases that compromise the immune system, the infection can get worse and harder to manage. The fungus can spread uncontrollably when the immune system is weak or compromised.
Warning Signs Of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is an unsightly and embarrassing infection that is contagious and often difficult to get rid of. And while some of you may have a mild case and barely even notice the fungal growth at all, others actually suffer from intense pain as their infection grows and spreads.
When patients visit our office looking to relieve pain caused by toenail fungus, they are usually finally doing something about the infection after months or even years! of ignoring the condition and allowing it to thrive.
Waiting to seek treatment they soon find is a huge mistake!
Request an Appointment
Whenever you have an infection, you shouldnt wait to seek medical care the sooner you get the care you need, the quicker and more effective treatments will be.
Its like the old saying goes, the early bird gets the worm. And this is true when it comes to toenail fungus looking for symptoms of this pesky condition before they become a problem will help you make the most of treatment opportunities and minimize complications.
The bottom line is that the more you allow fungus to grow and spread under your nail, the more difficult it will be to actually get rid of it. So staying aware of symptoms and catching them early can really make a huge difference for your recovery.
And of course, if you want to catch it early, you need to know what to exactly look for thats why we are here!
Recommended Reading: How To Regrow A Toenail With Fungus
How Is Toenail Fungus Diagnosed
The doctor will examine your toenails. The doctor will also likely send a sample off to the lab to identify the nature of the infection. This can be done by clipping the nails or by scraping under the nail. Prescription medications may be recommended immediately, but knowing exactly whats causing the infection can determine the best course of treatment. Other types of infection can cause similar symptoms, including yeast and bacterial infections. Though not an infection at all, psoriasis can also sometimes mimic toenail fungus.
What Is The Best Home Remedy For Toenail Fungus
Self-care and body awareness can be key in keeping toenail fungus at bay. Wash feet with warm soapy water and pat completely dry to reduce the spread or growth of fungus on the feet. Allow feet to breathe when possible. Protect your feet and wear breathable shoes and clean socks. Change socks regularly and wash in hot water if you are struggling with toenail fungus. Over-the-counter antifungal powders used for treating athletes foot can also be used for treating mild cases of toenail fungus.
Avoid nail polish and pedicures that use polish or nail plate coatings. Even though you may want to conceal the discolored or warped look of an infected toenail, allowing maximum air circulation to the nail and skin of the toes is best.
Also Check: How To Treat Fingernail Fungus With Vinegar
Don’t Miss: Does Isopropyl Alcohol Kill Toenail Fungus
What Is The Outcome For Someone Who Has Nail Fungus
With treatment, many people can get rid of nail fungus. Even when the fungus clears, your nail may look unhealthy until the infected nail grows out. A fingernail grows out in 4 to 6 months and a toenail in 12 to 18 months.
To clear the fungus, its important to:
-
Use the treatment exactly as prescribed
-
Apply the medicine for as long as prescribed
-
Keep all follow-up appointments with your dermatologist
Nail fungus can be stubborn. If you had a severe infection, its possible to clear the infection. A healthy looking nail, however, may be unrealistic, but you can expect the nail to look better and feel more comfortable.
Even with clearing, nail fungus can return. Youll find steps to reduce your risk in Tips: 12 ways to prevent another nail infection.
ImageGetty Images
ReferenceGold LFS and Rosen T. Onychomycosis: Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. Dermatology News . March 2016:2-15.
Top 5 Signs Your Toenail Fungus May Have Escalated To An Infection
A little case of toenail fungus is practically a rite of passage you quickly learn not to go barefoot in a locker room or shared shower area again and to always pack clean socks. But what happens when your toenail problem goes beyond a suspect smell and yellowed appearance?
At Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle Center, with locations in Wheat Ridge, Granby, Evergreen, and Arvada, Colorado, our team of podiatrists and foot and ankle surgeons provide care for fungal toenail infections and much more. They believe in educating patients about skin and nail care so you can help avoid common problems and keep your feet healthy and strong.
You May Like: Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help Toe Fungus