Infected Toenail

While dealing with the routine care of nails, an ingrown toenail or onychocryptosis is commonly faced by all people. It refers to growing of skin over the nails or in other words, partly penetration of the toenails in the skin. Ingrown toenail may cause pressure on the sides of the nail and result in redness, swelling, inflammation and painful toe. This nail distress should not be avoided at any cost, as it can become a breeding ground for nail fungus. In nearly all cases of infected toenail, infections by fungus is the predominant cause.

Symptoms

Apart from ingrown nail condition, an infected toe symptoms can be triggered due to poor nail hygiene, sharing of footwear and other health complications. Referred to as onychomycosis, it is the most frequently reported nail problem, which requires addressing by a physician. In comparison to fingernails, toenails are at a higher risk of developing fungal infections.

Both ingrown and the usual toenail fungus infections start in the tips of the nails. Some of the early symptoms that signify infections are thickening and discoloration of the toenails. The toenails may turn soft, brittle and irregular in texture. At times, there may be development of yellowish patches under the nails, which are accumulated keratin debris. In severe infected toenails, there may be complete loss of the nails.

Treatment

Though, an infected toenail is not a very serious condition, it should be treated as early as possible. People who have underlying health conditions such a weakened immune system or diabetes should seek immediate medical help, as it can lead to various complications. If left untreated, it covers other areas, thus affecting the whole nail. Also, there are chances of infecting the adjacent toenails in case proper care is not taken at the right time.

For infected toe treatment, you can find myriads of topical products in the market. Hence, it is really difficult to choose an effectual product for combating infected toenail. The main objective for treatment is to stop the infection, reduce the symptoms and promote healthy nail growth. After confirmation, the physician may prescribe antifungal medicines along with nail caring tips for treatment of toenail infection.

Remedies

In mild cases of infection or identification in the early stages, infected toenail home remedy is effective for treating the symptoms and prevent further spreading. Hence, prior to taking medical help, you can also try infected toe remedies to treat the condition, some of which are discussed below:

• Vinegar - Vinegar has shown to be one of the most effective remedies for infected toenails. Mix equal quantities of vinegar and water and soak the toenails to treat infections.
• Tea Tree Oil - Applying tea tree oil over the infected nails two to three times daily will help cure infections. Use a cotton ball to apply concentrated tea tree oil over the affected areas.
• Listerine Mouthwash - Use a cotton ball to swab the infected toenail with Listerine mouthwash. Doing so will help cure the infection quickly.
• Hydrogen Peroxide - Hydrogen peroxide is another effective treatment for toenail infection. Soak feet in a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution, containing equal amounts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water to cure infected toenails.
• Alcohol - Being a disinfecting agent, alcohol is used for treating an infected nail. Use alcohol to rub the infected nails twice daily and you will notice quick healing of the affected nails.
• Lime Juice - Lime juice is acidic in nature and helpful for treatment of toenail infection. Dip a cotton ball in fresh lime juice and rub the infected toenails for about 20 minutes in order to promote quick healing.
• Turmeric Paste - Turmeric having antiseptic properties help in curing infected toenails. Prepare a paste out of turmeric powder and clean water and apply it over the toenails twice daily.

In addition to therapeutic treatment and home remedies for an infected toenail condition, proper nail care tips should be practiced for better results. One should not use public swimming pools and other unhygienic areas in barefoot to avoid the risk of toenail infection. Also, make sure you keep the toenails clean and dry. With routine pedicure and correct nail hygiene, you can prevent further outbreaks of toenail infections.