Brown Toe Nails | Toe Nail Discoloration

While most people will simply brush off a discolored toenail by believing that there is no more to it than a reduction of aesthetic appeal, a discolored toenail could point to something actually being very wrong. Unless there is a better explanation such as trauma to the nail which resulted in bleeding and thus blackening under the nail, there is a very high possibility of there being a fungal nail infection. Some other possibilities for the discoloration include a bacterial growth under the nail or the excessive use of nail polish. Toenail fungus will tend to invade the nail and result in not only a discoloration of the nail but a noticeable splitting, thickening and separation of the nails as well. The nail discoloration will generally start from the nail bed and work its way up to the upper layers of the nail and only stop when the entire nail has been damaged. The fungus could cause brown, yellow or even black discoloration in the toenail. Once the fungal infection has damaged the toenail to an advanced extent, even the most successful remedies will take a substantial amount of time to show results. As a result, taking care of the toenail when you first notice the condition starting to develop is essential in the curing process.

Tea Tree Oil Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus is relatively hard to eliminate and requires being treated with anti fungal medications or topical anti fungal medications. However, since prescription drugs are relatively expensive, a lot of people choose to treat the condition with the use of natural topical remedies. Some of the best home remedies incorporate the use of tea tree oil, which is known to have tremendous anti fungal properties. Soaking your feet in a tub filled with an anti fungal oral mouthwash is also known to show significant improvements in the condition as a result of its anti fungal properties. This method also helps restore the nail to its original color, however, much like the development of the condition, the recuperation is gradual and results will only be seen over a period of time. In order to prevent the onset of the condition, it is advisable that you avoid walking barefoot in public shower facilities, locker rooms, or rest rooms as the dark, warm and most environments of these locations provide the optimum conditions for fungus to spread and breed. Instead, make sure that your feet are clean and dry at all times and avoid the sharing of shoes or socks.