Are you embarrassed to wear sandals because you don’t like the way your toenails look? Have your nails change colors through the years and instead of them being a transparent white they are now yellow, or brown? Are your nails hard to cut because they are thick, or do you experience pain when you are wearing shoes? Chances are you may be suffering from something called “onychomycosis.”
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail that develops over an extended period. Due to repeated trauma, the toenails receive from wearing shoes, improper ventilation, and sweating feet. Some illnesses can predispose you to this condition, such as diabetes, psoriasis, and other immune diseases.
If you have diabetes, and you have thick, uncomfortable toenails, consult your family Doctor or Podiatrist. Often when you have diabetes, you may be unaware that the nail bed which is directly under the nail, may have been injured due to repetitive trauma from your shoes. When this occurs, a bacteria infection can insure and put you at risk for a more serious medical problem.
Most cases of toenail fungus occur as a result of aging. If you are experiencing discoloration and thickness of your toenails, here are a few home remedies.
- Tea tree oil
Has an active ingredient called Terpinen-4-ol, this is a very effective antifungal and antiseptic oil.
- Coconut Oil
Contains fatty acids which nourish the nail and help fight fungus.
- Lavender Oil
Contains linalool and linalyl acetate which creates a healthy environment for the skin and nails.
- Garlic
Garlic is a potent and effective antibacterial and antifungal.
- Menthol vapor rub
Menthol is an anti-inflammatory that can lessen the discomfort due to a thick nail and has an antifungal effect.
- Thymol
This is an oil derived from the spice thyme, and it is effective against fungus.
Remember if you are determined to resolve your fungal nail condition it will take time and commitment, as you begin to apply your remedy of choice.
To gauge your progress, look for a decrease in the discoloration of the nail at the base, where the nail grows out from under the skin. This will take time, depending on how fast or slow your nail growth time is. Once again if you are willing to remain committed you can nail this condition down. No pun intended.
