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infected toe
An infected toe can be a very uncomfortable or even painful condition that is caused by a number of triggers, which include lack of proper foot hygiene, open cuts, untreated wounds, fungi, ingrown toenails, or even shoes that are too tight. In case the infected toe is the result of a fungal infection, the other toes could soon get infected too, thereby increasing the pain and discomfort. The most common symptoms of an infected toe are pain, difficulty in walking and swelling around the toenail. Besides this there could also be changes in the shape or texture of the nails, brittleness, the presence of pit marks on the nail and nail discoloration. Fortunately, it is quite possible to deal with most cases of an infected toe, without taking any medication or even visiting a doctor. However, preventing fungal infections is better than trying to cure it. Given below are some simple steps that can prevent toe infections:- One of the most effective home remedies for toenail fungus or an infected toe is to apply alcohol twice a day, using a cotton swab.
- Make sure that your toenails are always clean and dry.
- Trim your toenails regularly, without cutting them too short. Always cut your nails soon after a shower, which helps to soften them.
- Nail files and cutters are often the breeding ground for several varieties of bacteria. Sterilize any such equipment, before using them, to avoid chances of an infected toe.
- Avoid wearing snug or tight fitting footwear for a long period of time. In order to avoid an infected toe, make sure that you change your socks frequently.
- Mix some lime juice in butter milk and apply the mixture directly on the infected toe, to help it heal faster.
- In case your infected toe is accompanied by a swelling, you should try soaking your feet in warm water to which rock salt has been added, to reduce the swelling.
- Try to wear open-toe sandals as much as possible, to increase the flow of air to the infected area, which helps expedite the healing process.
- Ensure that you dry all your toenails, before wearing any type of closed footwear or even socks. After you take a shower or wash your feet, use a towel to wipe off the moisture from between your toes and to keep them dry. Apply talcum powder between your toes, to avoid any excess moisture that you may have missed.
- You could reduce the pain and inflammation caused by an infected toe, by applying tea tree oil.
If the home remedies are not very effective in fighting off the infection, or in case the symptoms worsen, it is best to seek medical attention.
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