Toenail Fungus: Causes and Cure
Toenail fungus is one of the most common problems. It disfigures and destroys the nail. Toenails are more prone to be affected by the fungus than the fingernails. Though fungal infection can affect the fingernails, it is difficult to cure toenails because it grows slowly.
Most of the toenail fungus is infectious and can spread the infection from any public place such as swimming pool, gyms, shower stall, infected pedicure tools or from any damp areas. Damp, moisture, humidity and heat help these fungi to grow. People in habit of wearing tight attire, under garments and shoes can be affected by this type of fungus because sweating for a long time helps them to grow. Other causes of fungal infection are the abnormal pH level of the skin, poor hygiene of the foot, and diabetes.
How will you understand that you have an attack of toenail fungus? You will get swelling of nails. Then your nail will get yellow color, will be thick and will be brittle, and gradually you will loose your nails completely.
To get cure from it first of all follow a proper hygienic routine. Wash your feet properly and regularly and wipe them with clean cloth. Do not let your feet remain moist. Avoid wearing nail polish in this situation because it will actually enhance the situation. Nail polish seal fungus under its cover and allow it to grow. Make sure that you have disinfected your pedicure tools.
You can use tea tree oil to control the situation. Tea tree has antifungal and antibacterial properties which can cure the fungal infection. If you use it regularly on those infected areas especially over the new growing part, you will get the positive result within a month. But it is better to visit a doctor and take his advice. Doctor, after checking up, will judge whether an oral medication or a toenail trimming and filing is appropriate for your condition.
To prevent the toenail fungi and infection follow a proper hygiene, meaning every day bathing and cleaning up followed by wiping with a clean cloth. If you swim in swimming pool, after finishing swimming again wash your whole body with medicated soap. Always wear 100% wool or cotton socks because they absorb the sweat. Whether it is hosiery or shoes, wear a little larger size so that air can pass and stop the growth of fungus.
