Fungal infection under the toenail is one of the most common diseases of the nails, and for many people it is a painful and embarrassing problem. Although it can be treated by doctors using anti fungal tablets or, ultimately, surgery, the use of toenail fungus home remedies is becoming increasingly popular. This is due in part to the fact that they are often cheaper and more readily available than medical solutions, but it should be noted that they are largely scientifically unverified. If symptoms should persist, it is important to see a doctor.
This ailment has easily recognizable symptoms, so diagnosis should not be a problem. The growth may begin as a white spot under or at the edge of the nail, which as it spreads will usually turn the entire area a yellowish colour. An unpleasant smell is common as debris from the infection builds up under the toenail. In later stages, the toe may become painful, and the nail may even begin to detach itself from its bed.
If a home treatment is to be successful, care must be taken to ensure that it is applied correctly. The infected area should always be totally covered, and this should take place at least twice a day for some time. This is because the problem is not on the surface of the nail, but on the bed underneath, an area which is difficult to reach with topical treatments.
One popular remedy that uses a common household product is to soak the affected area in vinegar. Since the fungus needs a certain acidity to flourish, the strong pH value of the vinegar will limit its growth. Vinegar is often mixed in equal parts with water in a bowl, in which the foot is bathed.
Tea tree essential oil is frequently used as a domestic remedy for this affliction. It can be allowed to soak in to the affected area, and then removed using a small brush such as a toothbrush, which will help to make sure the oil has reached as much of the infection as possible. This treatment may be effective due to the powerful anti fungal properties of tea tree oil.
Some chest rubs and mouthwashes contain an ingredient that is believed to be effective against fungal infections. Mouthwash is in addition a powerful antiseptic, leading many people to swear by it as a remedy for this affliction. The feet can be bathed directly in the solution, or chest rub applied to the infected areas.
Oregano oil is believed to be another natural fungicide, and may help to improve symptoms. If it is applied neat however, it is likely to irritate the skin, so many people blend it with olive oil. This combination is then applied daily, making sure that the diseased area is fully soaked.
All of these toenail fungus home remedies may work best if they are used daily over an extended period of time. It could also be advisable to continue using them for a few weeks after symptoms have disappeared, to ensure that the fungus is completely eradicated. The location of this infection is difficult for topical treatments to reach and take effect, so if no improvement is visible or especially if the symptoms worsen, consulting a doctor is advisable.
This ailment has easily recognizable symptoms, so diagnosis should not be a problem. The growth may begin as a white spot under or at the edge of the nail, which as it spreads will usually turn the entire area a yellowish colour. An unpleasant smell is common as debris from the infection builds up under the toenail. In later stages, the toe may become painful, and the nail may even begin to detach itself from its bed.
If a home treatment is to be successful, care must be taken to ensure that it is applied correctly. The infected area should always be totally covered, and this should take place at least twice a day for some time. This is because the problem is not on the surface of the nail, but on the bed underneath, an area which is difficult to reach with topical treatments.
One popular remedy that uses a common household product is to soak the affected area in vinegar. Since the fungus needs a certain acidity to flourish, the strong pH value of the vinegar will limit its growth. Vinegar is often mixed in equal parts with water in a bowl, in which the foot is bathed.
Tea tree essential oil is frequently used as a domestic remedy for this affliction. It can be allowed to soak in to the affected area, and then removed using a small brush such as a toothbrush, which will help to make sure the oil has reached as much of the infection as possible. This treatment may be effective due to the powerful anti fungal properties of tea tree oil.
Some chest rubs and mouthwashes contain an ingredient that is believed to be effective against fungal infections. Mouthwash is in addition a powerful antiseptic, leading many people to swear by it as a remedy for this affliction. The feet can be bathed directly in the solution, or chest rub applied to the infected areas.
Oregano oil is believed to be another natural fungicide, and may help to improve symptoms. If it is applied neat however, it is likely to irritate the skin, so many people blend it with olive oil. This combination is then applied daily, making sure that the diseased area is fully soaked.
All of these toenail fungus home remedies may work best if they are used daily over an extended period of time. It could also be advisable to continue using them for a few weeks after symptoms have disappeared, to ensure that the fungus is completely eradicated. The location of this infection is difficult for topical treatments to reach and take effect, so if no improvement is visible or especially if the symptoms worsen, consulting a doctor is advisable.
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Toenail fungus is a painful and embarrassing problem. Easily treat and ultimately cure one of the most common diseases of the nails by checking out our review on toenail fungus home remedies on http://www.toenailfungusremedy.info