Nail fungus affects both the fingernails and the toenails but is more common with toenails. It starts as a rather subtle yellow or white spot beneath the tip of the nail. If not treated immediately, it worsens very fast hence causing nail discoloration, thickening, as well as crumbly nails. It is highly contagious, can quickly spread from nail to nail but there is no proof of spread between persons. Nail fungus makes the nail so ugly and can also be considerably painful. Nail fungus, especially toenail fungus, is notorious; treatment may last several months yet the rate of recurrence is alarmingly high.
Symptoms of Nail fungus
If your nail shows any or combination of the following symptoms, you may have nail fungus.
- Whitish to yellow-brown discoloration
- Thickened
- Crumbly or brittle
- Distorted shape
- Debris under the nail causing a dark color
Who is more susceptible to nail fungus?
According to Mark Todd of nailcarepalace.com, people who make extensive use of their feet and hand such as soccer players, dancers, and runners are more prone to having nail fungus. The risk factors are as follow:
What are the Causes of Nail Fungus?
Age: the older we get, the blood flow to the feet is reduced. This significantly affects the body’s ability to fight fungus infection around feet which is one of the reasons toenail fungus is more common.
Sweaty foot: fungus thrives in a warm and moist environment hence consistently wet feet and hands are more exposed to nail fungus.
History of athlete’s foot
Underlying health issues: people with health issues such as diabetes, circulation problems, or a suppressed immune system are more susceptible to nail fungus.
Fast home remedies for nail fungus
The treatment of nail fungus could span over several months yet the rate of recurrence is high. Fortunately, there are effective treatment options that are capable of completely and permanently healing nail fungus. A good number of them can be administered quite easily at home. They include:
1. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is gotten from the tea tree. Tea tree is an ancient Australian plant that has a long history of treating fungal infections. Tea tree oil is rich in antifungal and antiseptic properties which makes it an effective treatment option for nail fungus. It relieves the nail fungus, restores a clear nail, and most importantly cures the fungus completely. Dilute few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, for example, olive or coconut oil, and then apply a thin layer to the affected area. It is important to mix it with a carrier oil in order to ensure tea tree oil is adequately absorbed into the nail bed for effective work. In case of skin irritation, reduce the quantity of the mixture you apply to the affected area but if irritation persists, you may discontinue usage. It works very fast; noticeable changes can be observed within a few weeks of usage.
2. Hydrogen peroxide and Iodine
Independently, they are popularly used as disinfectants for cuts and wounds. They are loaded with antifungal and antiseptic properties which would make each of them a formidable cure for nail fungus. Their combination works faster and better in the treatment of nail fungus. Dip your hand or foot in the mixture or use a cotton ball to apply the mixture to the affected area. Dilute iodine adequately before application to avoid damaging the skin. If the surrounding skin is broken or irritated, hydrogen peroxide may have a stinging effect.
3. Baking soda
This is a very common element in most homes yet holds an amazing healing effect for nail fungus. It is rich in antifungal properties which help it fight nail fungus very fast and restore a clear and healthy nail. Soak your hand or foot in a bucket half-filled with warm water and mixed with about a half cup of baking soda. Do this twice a day, for about 20 minutes on each occasion.
4. Garlic
Garlic has extensive medicinal properties which resulted in its use for different health conditions. It is very effective and fast in the treatment of nail fungus owing to its rich antiseptic and antifungal properties. Soak the affected area in a mixture of warm water and fresh garlic for about half an hour twice a day. Other home remedies for the treatment of nail fungus include coconut oil, olive leaf extract, vinegar, etc.
Note: the above treatments would only be effective and permanent if combined with proper nail hygiene. Keep your nails clean and dry.
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