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Toenail Infection Treatment
I have what looks like a toenail infection, but now the skin on the top corner is swollen and very sore.
(17 Feb 2010)
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Causes of toenail infection: a toenail infection or irritation could be caused by a variety of factors. It could be due to a fungus infection or an ingrown toenail. Whatever the reason, it would be of the utmost importance for you to seek treatment.
Toenail fungus – its causes, symptoms, remedies, precautions and diet: Toenail fungus is caused by a group of fungi known as dermaphytes. This fungus feeds on the keratin, which is the surface of the toenail, causing discoloration and disfigurement of the nail.
Symptoms: The affected toenail becomes thick and brown or yellow in color. Sometimes even wearing shoes becomes painful. There may also be an accumulation of foul-smelling debris under the nail. Sometimes the nail breaks off into pieces and eventually falls off.
Causes: Damp areas such as swimming pools, public gyms and shower stalls often play host to the infection as these damp and warm conditions are perfectly suited to fungi. Wearing tight-fitting shoes or socks for long periods is another cause as it provides a warm, moist habitat which is ideal for growth of fungus. Not drying your feet thoroughly after a bath or exercise, decreased immunity or abnormal pH levels of skin also put you at risk of a possible infection.
Remedies:
- Fill a basin with equal proportions of natural apple cider and warm water. Soak your toenails in this for 15 to 20 minutes. After that dry them thoroughly
- Soaking your feet in a basin of Listerine mouthwash is also effective since it has antiseptic properties.
- Apply tea tree oil to the affected area for a few days. Tea tree acts as a powerful natural antiseptic.
- Lavender oil or a mixture of olive and oregano oil can also be applied, since they have antifungal and antibacterial properties.
- Before going to bed, apply Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) cream to your feet. This helps to soften and slough off the scaly skin near the toenails.
Diet: Include probiotic (yogurt) and olive leaf extract in your diet since they have anti-fungal properties.
Precautions:
- Wash and dry your feet well after visiting public facilities.
- Keep your feet dry by wearing cotton socks, since they absorb moisture.
Ingrown nails: You may be suffering from an ingrown toenail. This may be painful and cause soreness and pus formation. It is caused by improper nail cutting, improper hygiene, dropping heavy objects on your toes, or hitting it against a wall or stone.
Remedies:
- Remove the dead skin around the area. Soften your toenails by soaking the foot in a basin of warm water to which you have added a tablespoon of salt. Soak for 15 minutes.
- If there is pus, drain it out and keep the area clean and dry.
- Do not shape toe nails into a point but cut them straight across.
- Avoid wearing tight closed shoes and socks for some time.
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answered by M W on 17 Feb 2010, 12:12:35
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