Nail Fungus

A fungus is a single celled organism that is invisible to the naked eye that grows in a wide range of habitat and performs an essential role in ecosystems primarily as decomposers of matter and important in nutrient cycling. Yeast, molds and mushrooms are examples of fungi.

Toenail fungus with a medical term of onychomycosis affects the fingernails and toenails of a lot of people. It is a commonly misunderstood disease. This condition is usually left untreated causing unsightly disfigurement of their nails.

Some people are more susceptible and would have varying degrees of symptomatology. In more severe cases, affected nails could have a yellowish or brownish discoloration. The nails may thicken and become brittle over time.

The fungus has a predilection to grow in warm, moist places including public areas like spas, swimming pools and shower rooms. A person who walks without any protective covering for their feet has an increased likelihood of picking up the spores. It is important for people to be aware of how this condition is transmitted to avoid nascent infections.

Personal hygiene including wearing of cotton socks, washing your feet after going to public places, using your own towel, keeping your feet dry, wearing open toed sandals and shoes that are breathable, and not using other peoples nail polish are deterrents for this disease to thrive. Prevention is the key.

When the condition has already set in, there are simple home remedies that could be instituted. Tea tree oil has been noted to be a potent antiseptic and fungicide. This preparation when rubbed thoroughly in the affected toe has resulted in a fair treatment outcome. Tea tree oil in combination with lavender oil will help fight the infection and prevent skin irritation.

Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) creams applied to your feet before going to bed can flush out the rough scaly skin of the affected toe. Soaking your feet in equal proportions of warm water and apple cider vinegar has also proven effective in controlling further progression of the disease. Likewise, Listerine mouthwash, a powerful antiseptic may leave your toenails looking healthy.

These are just a few recommended home remedies for this chronic condition. To have it is really a nagging problem, however, being aware of how the infection establishes itself on your toenails, makes one realize that the condition is not incurable.

Personal hygiene, good foot care, prevention to exposure in high risk areas and keeping your feet free from the confines of a closed shoe all day long could lessen the incidence of this malady.

Tags: health, nail fungus, fungus, nails, treatment, symptoms, skin