Toe nail fungal infection is a common phenomenon. It is also called as Onchomycosis or Tinea Unguium.This generally affects the men more than the women. Men are used to outdoor sports and sharing changing rooms. This fungus can grow in humid and dark environment thus affecting the toes. It can spread from one toe to another. However it is not a life threatening situation. But it can be embarrassing for those having discolored toes due to the infection. There may be discoloration and yellowing of the nails. Pus may be oozing out of the nail and there may be accumulation of the pus under the nail. Wearing tight fitting shoes, presence of moisture in the toes after bathing, sharing common places and swimming pools are some of the reasons for toe nail infection. Certain treatments that can be useful for preventing toe nail infection are:
- Apply tea tree oil on the affected nail 2 to 3 times a day. Tea tree oil has antibiotic properties and can avoid irritation of the skin
- Apply Alpha Hydroxyl Acid creams on the affected areas before going to bed.
- Soak your toes in an anti septic mouth wash. This will make the skin look healthy.
- Wear cotton socks. Avoid wearing damp socks. Immediately remove it end replace it with fresh socks.
- Clean your feet well after coming from public places like swimming pools or common bathrooms.
If there pain in the toes and foul smelling debris under the nails, then it is advisable to consult a doctor.
answered by J M
Toenails are often vulnerable to various bacteria and fungi if exposed to areas like common showers, gyms, and other damp areas that may not maintain high levels of sanitation. This can lead to fungal infections that, although not excruciatingly painful, can be aesthetically unpleasant to deal with. Wearing shoes or socks/stockings that are overly tight can restrict blood flow and air circulation to the toes. This too can increase the likelihood that a fungal infection can take root.
To treat the infection use an antifungal/antiseptic solution such as tea tree oil. This essential oil has strong anti-fungal properties and can clear out the infection-causing organisms without any noticeable side effects. Do not ingest tea-tree oil orally as it has a variety of negative side effects and is not meant for consumption. Also try a combination of tea tree oil, menthol oil, and camphor oil in equal parts. Apply this blend externally.
The nail will grow back gradually over time Meanwhile make sure you wash and dry your feet thoroughly many times a day. It is important to make sure the feet are absolutely dry after every wash. To prevent the infection from spreading to other areas towel dry your feet last of all. Alternatively you could use a separate towel to dry just your feet and toes, as this will quarantine the infection. If the appearance of the toe offends you then try wearing closed shoes that are not tight. Change hosiery everyday and avoid overly fitted socks and stockings. You can wear open-toed sandals or shoes with a bandage covering the toenail. Clean and disinfect the area often with witch hazel solution and change the bandage as often you can.
answered by G R