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Toenail Fungus Infection
toenail fungus how to get rid of it?
(22 Jun 2009)
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Fungal skin infections are quite a common occurrence and among these tinea infections are probably the most widespread. Tinea infections are caused by a group of fungi termed as dermatophytes and infections like toenail fungus, athlete’s foot and jock itch belong to this category. The medical name for toenail fungus is in fact tinea unguium.
Fungal infections are more likely to affect areas like the feet and groins because of the very nature of fungi; they require a warm, moist environment to thrive.
Nail infections or onychomycosis as they are referred to can occur in both finger nails and toe nails but are more likely to affect the toe nails because of the perfect conditions in warm sweaty socks and shoes. Moreover the infection can easily be picked up by sharing footwear, walking bear footed in public showers, locker rooms or baths, or even by sharing towels and nail cutters.
The development of a nail fungal infection will be marked first with the appearance of white or yellowish spot beneath the tip of the nail. As the infection progresses and fungus multiplies and spreads out under the nail, the entire nail would be likely to discolor, thicken and even crumble. Toenail infections are not just unsightly but can also be painful.
Unfortunately because the fungi are embedded in the nail treatment is not very easy, a fact that is accentuated because of the slow growth of toenails. Toenail fungal infections are therefore persistent and treatment maybe needed for up to a year to resolve it completely. Home remedies for fungal infections may vary in effectiveness and are not recommended as delaying treatment or applying ineffective treatment only makes the infection a lot more persistent and harder to treat. There are however plenty of natural methods and practices that can help facilitate healing. Over the counter topical applications are quite effective but need to be backed up with self care practices:
- It is absolutely essential that you keep the affected areas clean and dry.
- Follow the highest levels of personal hygiene as the infection can easily be passed on to others or even spread to your finger nails. Re-infection is also not uncommon.
- Aromatherapy soaks with essential oils like tea tree oil can help significantly. Many aromatherapy oils like tea tree oil contain antifungal properties that can help speed up healing.
- Herbs like garlic are also useful because of their antifungal properties.
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answered by S D on 22 Jun 2009, 1:45:33
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