How To Get Rid of Toe Fungus?
Toe fungus is common among human beings but that doesn’t make it acceptable. This condition causes toenails to become misshapen and change color, which can be an embarrassing sight when warm weather arrives. If you are willing to devote some time (and maybe some money) to getting rid of toe fungus you can vastly improve the appearance of your feet.
What is toe fungus? The name gives us a good clue. Unwanted little pests cause these growths under and around our toenails. The growth is similar to fungal growths anywhere else. The human body may already have the bacteria necessary to cause such growth. Fungal growths are caused by living (organic) things so it makes sense that the acid content of vinegar might be a good place to start when getting rid of toe fungus.
What to do
Vinegar is a great product for use in home remedies. Many people use it to slow or stop the growth of bacteria that produce toe fungus. Put enough water in a plastic tub or container to cover your feet. If this takes a half gallon of water, for example, use a quart of vinegar (two parts water, one part vinegar). Soak the toes and/or feet for about 15 minutes. Repeat this each day for several days. Watch for signs of skin irritation if you continue this treatment for a long period.
Some people find relief from toe fungus with another over-the-counter product. Vicks VapoRub is sometimes touted as a way to treat this condition. You may get better results with a commercial anti-fungal product available at the drugstore or grocery store.
It is also possible to reduce the symptoms of toe fungus with prescription oral medication. Talk with your doctor about a product that might be effective in treating fungus by putting medicine in your system. If this medication is successful in helping you get rid of toe fungus you should notice that new nail growth is free of fungus. This takes several weeks and may have to be continued for four or five months.
Additional Ideas
We mentioned earlier that some people try putting VapoRub directly on areas affected by toe fungus. There are some specific products available with off the shelf or by prescription that can also be applied directly on the fungus growth. These include a product that actually paints over the affected area with a substance similar to lacquer.
Your doctor might prescribe a topical cream or ointment for treating toe fungus as well. This may not be a way to completely cure toe fungus but these topical treatments can slow or stop new fungus growth. If used along with prescription oral medicines you may see some amazing results.
Surgery to correct the deformed toe nails and remove the unsightly discoloration may be an option. If the affliction is extreme or is causing you pain during everyday activities you may have to resort to surgery. Before you get to this point you may want to try some topical medications or even a medicated nail polish that provides as better appearance while working against fungal growth.
Category: Diseases & Conditions, Health