Stop Living with Nail Fungus

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It’s been
estimated that as much as 11 percent of the North American population has a nail
fungus, also known as Tinea Pedis or Onychomycosis. Although not dangerous, it’s
a definite cosmetic problem, often causing considerable discomfort and pain to
the individual inflicted with it.

Treatment by
a Physician

  • Having extra thick toenail material trimmed
    and removed is the first step. Doctors have instruments that enable them to cut
    off more, and sometimes trimming the nails is the only treatment needed.
  • Surgery is no longer performed
    routinely, but instead only when all other options have failed and the nail is
    creating a significant problem because of its size and/or shape.

Topical
Medications

  • Currently only one topical medication
    is approved for use in the U.S.— Ciclopirox Olamine 8% (Penlac)—which is a
    lacquer. It’s applied to the surface of the nail and the skin surrounding it daily.
    Once a week it’s removed, along with debris and unattached nail.
  • Naftin, Loprox , and Lamisil creams
    may also be used to treat nail fungus, however, there have only been small studies done using these
    creams.
  •  Additional topical medications are currently
    available in other countries that may eventually become available in the U.S.


There is only
a small chance of curing nail fungus with topical medications, and they must be
used for anywhere from months to years.

Oral
Medication

  • The most commonly used oral
    medication for fungal nail infections is Terbenafine (Lamisil®). Taken for six
    weeks to treat fingernails, and 12 to 16 weeks to treat toenails, the dosage is
    250 mg a day.
  • Itraconazole (Sporonox®) is also commonly used
    to treat fungal nail infections. 200 mg a day is taken for 12 weeks. “Pulse
    therapy” is also used, where 200 mg is taken twice a day for one week out of a
    month, for two months to treat fingernails and three months to treat toenails.
  • Fluconazole may also be used as an
    oral treatment for fungal nail infections. It only needs to be taken once a
    week, for a total of 3 months for fingernails or 6 months for toenails.

At one point in time it was thought that oral medications may
be the answer to curing fungal nail infections. However, oral medications don’t
work as well as expected, and their accompanying side effects may make the cure
worse than the disease.

Alternative
Treatments/Home Remedies

  • Two alternative treatments whose
    active ingredients contain tea tree oil are Zetaclear & Funginix
  • Soaking nails in vinegar, water with
    baking soda, strong tea, or water with bleach
  • Vicks VapoRub
  • Photodynamic therapy, or light, as a
    way to cure fungal nail infections
  • There are a number of different
    lasers capable of treating nail fungus. One, called the “Noveon”, is a
    dual-wavelength, near-infrared diode laser, and kills fungi without damaging
    normal tissue.

Tips to
Prevent Toenail Fungus

  • Don’t share towels/wash cloths with
    others– you may collect or spread spores
  • Wear breathable or “open-toed” footwear
    if you can.
  • Don’t go barefoot in public places.
    Wear shoes when at public pools, locker rooms, and showers.
  • Wear socks made with synthetic materials—they’ll
    wick away moisture, and can keep feet dryer than cotton or wool socks. If
    needed, cotton socks can be worn over top of the synthetic to absorb excess
    moisture/sweat.
  • Keep nails short, clean, and dry, trim
    them straight across, and file down any areas that have thickened.
  • After bathing thoroughly dry your feet,
    including between the toes.
  • Select a reputable manicure/pedicure
    salon, and make sure they sterilize the instruments. Even better, bring your
    own.

Considering the
variety of treatment options now available, nail fungus isn’t something a
person have to live with.

Get Rid of Toenail Fungus

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Toenail fungus is an embarrassing problem–one that hinders our lifestyle enjoyment. Does anyone want to go to the pool or wear sandals in the summer time when their toenails are discolored and cracked? If you want to ask for a foot massage from a loved one and not feel guilty, then there are plenty of treatments to choose from! Stop feeling guilty about your toenail fungus, and let’s get you on the way to healthy, handsome looking toenails!

The most common toenail fungus, onychomycosis (on-i-ko-mi-KO-sis), is about as frustrating to have as it is to pronounce. Some typical signs of this toenail fungus are:

  • Thickening of toenails
  • Toenails are brittle, crumbly, ragged or distorted
  • Foot odor
  • No luster or shine in the toenail
  • Toenail is darker from fungal deposits beneath the toenail bed


“Well How Do I Get Rid of It?!”
There are two routes you can take: Doctors or Home Remedies. Both have advantages so let’s go over your options!

Conventional Medicine:
There are a few options available from a doctor’s office. Some of them can have adverse effects on the heart or liver, so always go over your health record with your physician to find a safe option for you.

  • Oral medication. Lamisil and
    Sporanox are commonly prescribed anti-fungal drugs. They work by replacing the infected parts
    of the toenail with newer nail growth. This typically takes
    from six to twelve weeks, but it can take over four months for
    some. They work for many cases but also carry liver damaging
    side-effects–the extent of which is arguable–and the fungus can still
    return without future preventative measures.
  • Anti-fungal lacquer. If your case is mild, you may be prescribed an
    anti-fungal nail polish that’s painted on the infected areas everyday. The downside to this option is that it doesn’t always work and it can take up to a full year to see results.
  • Topical medications. These don’t always cure toenail fungus, so they are usually given to supplement oral medication. There are plenty of over the counter options available in most pharmacies. A doctor will also usually file the infected nail down to reduce the amount of the infection the topical creams have to treat.
  • Minor Surgery. If it’s serious enough and causing severe pain or discomfort, a doctor might recommend minor surgery. The whole toenail will be removed and it can take roughly a year to grow back entirely.

Home Remedies:
If you’re uninsured or apprehensive about the side-effects of some conventional remedies, there are some wonderful, affordable treatments you can try! Keep in mind that there is no FDA approved evidence for results and these remedies can take just as long as conventional methods–so be patient!

  • Vinegar.  It is known to
    inhibit the growth of some bacteria, so it’s not a far cry to believe it will also work on toenail fungus–it’s an acid after all. Try soaking the infected toenail for twenty minutes in a warm bowl of 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water at least once a day. Make sure you dry your feet very thoroughly and always use a fresh towel. Paper towels are the best option to ensure there is no cross-contamination. Your skin might be irritated by the vinegar; try using a more diluted solution less often. It can also weaken toenails and cause them to fall off if you soak them too often.
  • Vicks VapoRub. There is little or no consensus on how often to use it. The magic ingredient is thymol oil–an antiseptic from the herb, Thyme. Tea tree oil is another anti-fungal topical solution worth experimenting with. As with any topical agent, skin irritation is always a possibility–so be mindful of that risk.

Keeping Your Feet Healthy

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Impacts  Millions of Americans-Toe Nail Fungus

Yes, its true that over 35 million Americans are impacted by toenail fugnus . They can’t wear their flip flops without having the world know their terrible dark secret. We also have to remember how far our poor feet must take us. When your feet start hurting or start showing signs of problems, your world becomes a dark and dreary place.

Problems of Toenail Fungus

Toenail fugnus is actually called oncyomycosis or Onychomycosis. The condition is chronic, which basically means the condition can easily return. It takes time and care to keep feet fungus issues at bay.

Your main focus needs to be consistency. You have to select a care system and stick to it.  You can’t begin a care regimen and then stop it. You’ve got to be willing to follow through with treatment steps and carefully follow directions to the max.  Don’t stop your treatment all because you begin to see an improvement. If you stop your treatment when things are looking better, it only allows the culprit to return with greater strength. Don’t stop, keep at it. You can almost consider yourself a killer of toenail fugnus at this point. You must be consistent and dream about killing fungus in your sleep. Forget about the word inconvenient. Make your new theme consistent and thorough.

Its Dead Tissue

Hair, toenails, and fingernails all fall into the same category. They are really dead tissue. This means they can’t be reinvigorated or changed, especially after they have suffer toenail fugnus damage. The old areas that are impacted can’t be improved upon. You can keep the fungus from doing more damage. However, you can’t fix the damaged areas. What you can do is allow new healthy nails to grow in and take the place of the old damaged tissue. When products state that they can cure your fungal problems, you can’t fix already damaged toenail tissue, because its already dead. So, there really isn’t a cure. You can protect new toenail tissue from facing the same terrible fungal fate. So, you need to find a treatment plan and stick to it like glue.

Other Treatment Ideas

Once, you’ve got a good treatment plan, you can build on it. Some recommend using essential oils to help nail look better. Some ideas include soaking the area with white vinegar and water. Others have used tree oils and other essential oils to improve nail health. If you’re wanting to be sure that your feet not only look great but attract the opposite sex in great ways, try using natural pheromone colognes and perfumes. You’ll be attracting the opposite sex without them even know it. Don’t forget to that healthy feet, free from toenail fugnus, require constant and consistent care.


Nail Care Tips from Dermatologists

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The American Academy of Dermatology reports that nail
problems make up about 10 percent of all dermatological conditions. Fungal
infections cause most of these problems and your toenails are more susceptible
to fungal infection. Toenail fungus is more common because your feet are in warm,
moist conditions inside of your shoes.

What is Toenail Fungus?

Onychomycosis is an infection that develops under your
toenails or fingernails. Fungi called dermatophytes most commonly cause it but
yeasts and molds can also be the culprit. These microscopic organisms like the
conditions found inside of your shoes.

·        
They can live and grow without sunlight

·        
They like living in a warm, moist environment

·        
 These
fungi can easily grow in showers, saunas and in swimming pool areas

·        
They can get in your body through a small cut or
a crack in a nail

·        
Cause problems because your toenails are
continually exposed to conditions perfect for the growth and spread of fungi

Toenails are more susceptible to fungal infection for other
reasons. There is less blood flow to your toes than your fingers. This makes it
harder for your body’s immune system to detect and fight infection from fungi
and bacteria.

 

Symptoms of Toenail Fungus

There are several different types of toenail fungus and they
manifest in slightly different ways. You may have onychomycosis, a toenail fungus
infection if your toenails become brittle or crumbly around the edges. Toenails
can become dark from debris build-up under the nail or may lose their natural luster.

Discolored or distorted toenails are a sign that something
is wrong and you should see a dermatologist as soon as possible if you think
you have toenail fungus. The problem will persist and get worse if it is not
treated.

How to Prevent Toenail Fungus

Good hygiene and proper foot care can help prevent fungal
infection and other foot problems. The Mayo Clinic recommends several common
sense methods to properly care for your feet and protect them from infection.

·        
Keep your nails short and cut your toenails
straight across.

·        
Always wash and thoroughly dry your feet after
swimming

·        
Dry your feet carefully after showering or
bathing

·        
Wear socks that wick away moisture to keep your
feet cooler and dryer inside your shoes

·        
Change socks frequently

·        
Don’t go barefoot in public

 

Treating Toenail Fungal Infection

Home remedies for treating fungal infection include Vicks
Vapor Rub and soaking the feet in a warm vinegar and water solution. There is
no clinical evidence on the effectiveness of these home remedies. Some studies
indicate that soaking in vinegar inhibits the growth of the fungi or bacteria.

You should try soaking your feet for 15 to 20 minutes in a
mixture of one part vinegar to two parts warm water. You may do this daily but
make sure to rinse and dry your feet thoroughly afterwards.

 

Medication

Fungal infections can be difficult to treat. Your
dermatologist may suggest oral antifungal medicine such as Lamisil or Sporanox.
Both are effective for treating fungal infection and are safe for individuals with
diabetes or cellulitis.

You will have to take the medicine for six to twelve week.
It works by causing the growth of new toenails to replace the infected nail. It
can take several months to replace the infected nail with a healthy new toenail.

If the infection is mild, your dermatologist may recommend
an antifungal lacquer or topical medicated cream instead of oral medicines. For
severe infections, the only recourse might be surgical removal of the nail in
combination with drugs like ciclopirox to treat the nail bed.

 

How To Cure Your Toenail Fungus And Give You Great Looking Toenails Again

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Nail fungus, also known as Tinea Pedis or Onychomycosis, is the most common foot ailment brought to the attention of podiatrists in North America. And although it’s not dangerous, it is most definitely a cosmetic concern, and often causes considerable discomfort and pain to the individual affected by it.

Treatment by a Physician

  • Having extra thick toenail material trimmed and removed is the first step. Doctors have instruments that enable them to cut off more, and sometimes trimming the nails is the only treatment needed.
  • Surgery is no longer performed routinely, but instead only when all other options have failed and the nail is creating a significant problem because of its size and/or shape.

Topical Medications

  • The only topical medication approved for use in the U.S. is Ciclopirox Olamine 8% (Penlac). It’s applied to the surface of the nail and the skin surrounding it daily, and removed once a week, along with debris and unattached nail.
  • Naftin, Loprox , and Lamisil creams may also be used to treat nail fungus infections. However, there have only been small studies done using these creams.
  • Additional topical medications are currently available in other countries that may eventually become available in the U.S.

There’s only a small chance of actually curing nail fungus with a topical medication, and they need to be used for anywhere from months to years.

Oral Medication

  • 250 mg a day of Terbenafine (Lamisil®) can be taken for 6 weeks to treat fingernails, and for 12 to 16 weeks to treat toenails.
  • 200 mg of Itraconazole (Sporonox®) a day can be taken for 12 weeks. “Pulse therapy” is also used—200 mg is taken twice a day for one week out of a month, for two months to treat fingernails and for three months to treat toenails.
  • Fluconazole only needs to be taken once a week, for a total of 3 months for fingernails or 6 months for toenails.

It was previously thought that oral medications could be the answer to curing fungal nail infections. However, oral medications do not work as well as expected, and the accompanying side effects may make the cure worse than the disease.

Home Remedies/Alternative Treatments

  • Soaking nails in water with baking soda, strong tea, vinegar, or water with bleach.
  • Treatments whose active ingredients contain tea tree oil. Zetaclear & Funginix are commonly used.
  • Vicks VapoRub applied on the affected area.
  • Light therapy, or photodynamic therapy
  • There are a number of different lasers capable of treating nail fungus. The “Noveon”, for example, is a dual-wavelength, near-infrared diode laser that kills fungi without damaging normal tissue.

Tips to Prevent Toenail Fungus

  • Choose a reputable pedicure/manicure salon, and make sure they sterilize the instruments, or bring your own.
  • Do not share wash cloths/towels with others– you may spread or collect spores
  • Do not go barefoot in public places. Wear shoes when in locker rooms, showers, and at public pools.
  • Wear breathable footwear when possible.
  • Wear socks made with synthetic materials—they’ll wick away any moisture, and can keep feet dryer than wool or cotton socks. If needed, cotton socks may be worn as a 2nd layer to absorb excess sweat/moisture.
  • Thoroughly dry your feet after bathing, including in between your toes.
  • Keep nails clean, short, and dry. Trim them straight across, and file down areas that may have thickened.

There are now a variety of options available to cure toenail fungus– it’s not something you have to live with. Following the above tips and choosing one of the afore-mentioned treatment options can cure your toenail fungus and have your nails looking great again in no time.

Nail Fungus and its Risk Factors

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It’s been estimated that over 11% of the population in Northern America have a fungus of the toenails, making it one of the most prevalent complaints that foot specialists are presented with. Understanding exactly what nail fungus is and its risk factors can make preventative measures much more feasible.

What Is Nail Fungus?

Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium, is a living organism that usually enters the skin through small abrasions or miniscule separations between the nail and the nail bed— the area beneath the fingernail that has the blood vessels, nerves, and melanin-producing cells. As these fungi thrive in warm, dark, moist environments, under and around the toenails is an ideal location for fungi to develop. Once it’s present, if left untreated for long getting it under control and eliminated is no easy feat, as the nail plate, or finger/toenail provides formidable protection for the growing fungus.

Common Risk Factors for Nail Fungus

  • A family history of fungal infection (genetics)
  • For some individuals, a diet high in sugar can make the body a better host to fungi
  • An abnormal ph level of the skin
  • Slow growing nails (the average nails grow at a rate of about 3mm, or 0.12 inches, a month, with fingernails growing up to four times faster than toenails) 
  • Trauma to the nail or surrounding area
  • Overly tight footwear that crowds the toes
  • Wearing socks and/or shoes that prevent thorough ventilation
  • Exercises or other movements that may cause repeated minor trauma to the hyponychium (the area where the finger or toe tip attaches to the nail)
  • Heavy or excessive perspiration
  • Poor hygiene of the foot or hand area
  • Walking barefoot in damp public places (swimming pools, gyms or shower rooms, for example)
  • A weakened immune system, and/or diabetes, AIDS, or circulation problems will make a person more susceptible to a fungal infection than average

Symptoms of Nail Fungus

Nails infected with a fungus are typically thickened, brittle, distorted, ragged, dull, and darker or yellowish in hue. In more severe cases, the nail can turn brownish in color, and after time may even develop crumbling edges and/or shed. An individual may also experience onycholysis, which is when the affected nails separate from their nail beds. Oftentimes nail fungal infections result in discomfort or pain in the fingertips or toes, which may also even emit a slightly offensive odor.

Yet another symptom commonly associated with infections from nail fungus are fungi-free skin abrasions known as dermatophytids. These lesions may be itchiness or rashes on an area of the skin that is not infected with the fungus – much the same as an allergic reaction.

Diagnosing a Fungal Nail Infection

At times it can be difficult to properly diagnose a fungal infection of the nails, as several other conditions can result in comparable symptoms. Such conditions include but are not limited to lichen planus, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, eczema, nail bed tumors, and yellow nail syndrome. For this reason, it’s important to see a physician for proper diagnosis before attempting treatment.

Even if an individual does not display any of the common risk factors noted above, he or she may still contract a fungal nail infection, although this is a rare occurrence. If it should happen, however, there are a variety of treatment options, including both over the counter and prescription-only remedies. Addressed promptly, the nails should be healthy again in relatively little time.

Advanced Stage Symptoms of Nail Fungus

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Toenail fungus is
pretty gross. When you get it, you know you want to get rid of it and if you
don’t do anything about it, you know that you wish that you had. Toenail fungus
may start with some mild discoloration, sensitivity, and general weakening of
the nail, but what happens if it gets worse than that? What happens if you saw
the early warning signs and ignored them? Then what do you do? The fact is that
he advanced stage symptoms of nail fungus can be pretty nasty and may require attention
from a doctor or emergency room. At the very least you are going to have to do something
about it with home applications before your toenail fungus gets even more uncomfortable.

Nail Separation: One
of the tell-tale signs that you have ignored your nail fungus for too long and
that you have to take a different course of action will be when your nail and the
nail bed begins to separate. This can be very painful and when the exposed skin
under the nail bed begins making contact with the light of day you can bet that
this is going to be a problem. Consider beneath the nail and how infrequently
that is exposed. Even if you cut your nail too short you know you’re hurting
until that nail grows back in full.

Pus/Musty Odor:
Often these next two symptoms go hand in hand but if you begin to notice pus or
discolored discharge you are going to want to take action. Often times this pus
is accompanied by a real nasty smell. It can happen that you just don’t even
notice your feet for a day or two and then you take off your sock to find this
nasty smelling stuff underneath. It’s another really gross part of the toenail fungus experience and it requires your
immediate attention.

Crumbled nail: If
your nail begins to crumble and fall off, that’s not a good sign. You should get
this treated right away because when your nail begins to come apart that
usually means the next symptom is right behind.

Detachment: If your
nail falls off altogether, that’s the real kicker. Complete detachment of your
nail requires you to get some anti-fungal on and take care of this problem
before it spreads. While you may think that because the nail has fallen off,
you’re in the clear, actually the exact opposite is true. Your new nail will
re-grow and begin separation, pus, smell, crumbling, and will fall off again. If
you don’t get yourself treated you’ll be on this loop for some time to come.

Treatments vary and
most in-home treatments are a good fit. Check and make sure you’re using a treatment
which others have had success with. If you’ve tried to do your toenail fungus treatment in
home and you’ve had no luck you could go in and see a specialist. This could
cost you as you will have to see what your insurance covers. Your doctor will
likely give you an anti-fungal so make sure that you try to do the work yourself before you go
see someone. If you have tried and have been unable to make this pattern of toenail fungus stop,
make sure that you have a detailed diary so you can tell your doctor all the treatments
you have used and the methodology of your treatment style. It may be that you’re
just not applying things correctly.

Toenail fungus can be a really disgusting thing to deal with. Better to care for it early before the fungal spreads.

Eat Your Way to Nail Health

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Toenail fugnus is a very common and uncomfortable issue that appears in the toenail due to dermatophytes which is caused by a group of fungi that comes from both hair and animals. Typically for someone who has this type of fungus, they will first notice a discoloration in their toenail which is followed by a thickness of the nail that will begin crumbling, if left untreated.

Toenail fugnus is very treatable and you do not have to use a whole lot of creams or antibiotics as a treatment. You can actually use some of the common foods you find around your kitchen. Many foods have vitamins in them and that is exactly what nails need to sustain health. Here are some great foods that will help with the fungus and could even help to prevent it in the future as well.

Common Foods for Toenail Fugnus Treatment

Protein- When it comes to health, protein is a great way to keep the body full of energy while also maintaining healthy organs, vessels and arteries. So it is no wonder that protein is also a great source to rely on when it comes to nails. Beans, soy, legumes, eggs, fish and lean meats are great ways to get daily sources of protein.

Vitamins- Vitamins are also healthy when it comes to the body and especially helpful in clearing nails of fungus, while also making them stronger as well. To get the most benefits from vitamins, try the B vitamin, Biotin. Biotin can be found in different type of foods such as fish, eggs, yogurt, bananas, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and mushrooms.

Zinc and Iron- While Zinc and Iron are pertinent in a healthy body; they are helpful with keeping nails stronger and healthier as well. Try leafy greens like kale and spinach or early green veggies like green pepper, bell pepper or peas. However, try not to overcook these vegetables because it will cook the vitamins right out of them. Try steaming instead.

Citrus Fruits- Vitamin C is a great way to take care of nails and you can find the most Vitamin C is oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes.

Garlic- Garlic is actually helpful to the heart more than anything else in the body but it can be used for so many purposes and of course, keeping nails healthy is one of those. Try mixing garlic in more of your foods; it will help with the fungi and many your nails a lot stronger so that they are less likely to break.

Water- While water is a great source for the body, which is mostly water, to have; it is also great for the nails. Drinking water helps clear the body out, which clears bacteria and other icky stuff out of your body. Therefore it can help clear out fungi as well.

While these are great foods to try when you have toenail fugnus, it should be on everyone’s to-do list to buy a few of these foods at the store even if they don’t have it. By eating these foods regularly, you could prevent the fungus from ever forming in the first place.

Paronychia: A Type of Nail Infection

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Paronychia is a common infection that causes inflammation in
the skin surrounding the fingernails and toenails.The cuticle of the fingernail and toenail
serves as a protective barrier but if it is damaged, there is a ready pathway
for bacteria and fungus to infect the skin.

Paronychia Causes
Paronychia begins with a break in the skin so biting or picking at the
nails and pulling hangnails increases the risk of infection.Ingrown toenails also put an individual at
risk for toenail fungus or bacterial infection.When fingernails or toenails are in water for long periods of time or
exposed to irritating chemicals, there is a risk of chronic paronychia.Moisture allows Candida(a type of fungus) and
bacteria (like strep and staph) to grow. For this reason, people in professions where their hands
remain wet for long periods of time are at a significantly higher risk of
developing nail infections.Toenail
fungus can also be caused by improperly cut toenails.Whether it is done at home or in a salon,
improper treatment of an ingrown toenail can be an invitation to infection.

Paronychia Symptoms
Typically the first symptoms of paronychia are redness, swelling and pain of the area around the nail.Pus-filled abscesses may also form near the
injury.  Over time, the appearance of the
nail may change.The cuticle can break
down, the nail may pull away from the nail bed and the nail may become hard, thick
and discolored.

Paronychia Treatment
Diagnosis of fingernail infection or toenail fungus is fairly
straightforward.  A physician can
identify paronychia based upon a visual inspection of the affected area. Soaking the affected area in hot water 3-4
times each day may reduce swelling and alleviate pain.Over the counter pain relievers may be of some comfort.If your doctor determines the infection is
bacterial, he or she may prescribe a course of antibiotics.If you have a finger or toenail fungus, your
doctor may recommend antifungal preparations.
In severe cases of paronychia, the infected area may need to be cut,
drained and cleaned. 

Outlook
Fingernail and toenail fungus and bacterial infections generally respond well
to treatment.Fungal infections may take far longer to resolve than bacterial infections. 

Prevention
The best way to prevent nail infections or toenail fungus is to properly care
for nails.Cut fingernails carefully and
be sure to use clean implements. Do not scrape or cut cuticles.Toenails should
be cut straight across to minimize ingrown nails.  Do not bite or pick at you nails or cuticles.If you are cleaning or have your hands in
water frequently, wear plastic or rubber gloves.Change your socks daily and rotate shoes to
allow them to dry out completely.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
If in spite of treatment, you continue to have swelling and pain, you need to
see a physician.  If your symptoms become
worse or new ones develop, it’s time to contact your doctor. Paronychia that is
caused by a fungus can be very difficult to get rid of.  If you have a fingernail or toenail fungus,
follow your doctor’s orders and be patient. If your infection does not clear
up, contact your doctor for other treatment options.

5 Tips for Gorgeous Nails

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Having gorgeous nails isn’t as elusive as it may seem. Below are 5 simple tips to help get your nails in the best shape possible, all while avoiding toenail fungus.

  1. Stimulate Nail Growth

    The area of the nail responsible for nail growth is the matrix, or nail root. It starts just below and slightly behind the cuticle and extends outward to create the lunula, the white crescent shaped part of the nail. Massaging the cuticle area often with an oil or lotion will stimulate nail growth by increasing blood flow to the matrix. The added moisture will also keep the cuticle healthy, which leads to step two.

  2. Handle the Cuticle With Care

    The cuticle fuses together the finger’s skin and the nail bed, the area of the nail that has the blood vessels, nerves, and melanin-producing cells, and thus provides a waterproof barrier that protects against germs and infection. Keeping the cuticle moisturized and intact allows it to better perform its function and keep toenail fungus at bay, so it’s important not to trim or cut the cuticles. Doing so will result in hard, swollen, rigid cuticles, which can leave the nail bed open to infection. Not only can an infection in the nail bed be painful, it can also result in dips and dents in the nail bed, which would cause the nails to also have dips and dents in their surface. Instead of trimming the cuticles, gently push them back with a wooden orange stick.

  3. Prevent White Spots

    It’s a common misconception that white spots on nails, also known as leukonychia, are the result of a calcium deficiency in a person’s diet. In reality, however, they’re caused by trauma to the nail matrix. An injury to the cells in the matrix will cause them to grow out white. By the time the white spot can be seen on the nail plate, the innocent bump of your nail on the edge of the counter, for example, has been forgotten. Being too aggressive while pushing back the cuticles is another example of how this could happen, so when pushing them back make sure you do so with care. It takes the nail approximately 12 to 18 months to completely replace itself from tip to end.

  4. Use a Glass Nail File

    Unlike a metal or emery file, since a glass file is permanently etched, it will never wear down. And as it is gentler on the nail than a metal or emery file, it will help to prevent splits and chips. An added bonus for a glass file is that it’s easy to clean—clean manicure tools are vital for preventing toenail fungus—and simply running it under the faucet will do the trick. Furthermore, they can be sterilized with heat or an ultraviolet light.

  5. Use a Base Coat

    I’m sure we’ve all taken off our nail polish only to see yellow staining on the nail. This can easily be prevented by using a base coat when you paint your nails. After priming your nails by swiping them with nail polish remover to remove any oils on the nail plate, add a base coat, which should quickly dry matte, with a tacky finish. A base coat will prevent the nail polish from staining your nails, and will prolong the longevity of the polish as well. Even better, is that a base coat with aloe Vera, vitamin e, and/or calcium will be beneficial to dry, brittle, nails.

Following these five simple steps will help keep your nails healthy and fungus-free, while giving them the boost they need to look their absolute best.