Treating Toenail Fungus and Ingrown Nails

Treating toenail fungus and ingrown nails at the right time can save you from all sorts of unwanted pain and disruptions in your everyday activities. Toenail fungus and ingrown toenails are painful conditions that might have serious consequences on your day-to-day life if left untreated for a long period. Timely recognition of the problem and proper care at home can prevent further complications and promote proper nail growth.

WHY TOE NAIL HEALTH IS IMPORTANT

Toe nail fungus is a condition that occurs when fungal organisms grow in and around your nail. Over time, the infection can cause your nail to discolor, thicken, develop crumbling edges, and even change the nail’s structure. The condition can easily go unnoticed early on because your toenails grow slowly and the infection takes a long period before spreading to other toes. If left untreated, the fungus can spread to your surrounding skin and the nail itself.

DIY CARE FOR TOE NAIL FUNGUS

Many things can cause toenail fungus. These include factors that cause your toes to stay moist for a long time like closed shoes, and factors that compromise the body’s ability to fight off infections such as aging and diseases. A small injury to your nail can also cause the fungus to start multiplying underneath the nail.

WHAT CAUSES TOE NAIL FUNGUS

Symptoms of toenail fungus include changes in the color of the nail to white, yellow or brown. As the condition worsens, the nails may thicken, crumble and lift from the nail bed. It is easy to mistake this condition for other nail infections. For this reason, it is important to have a professional diagnose the condition.

SYMPTOMS OF TOE NAIL FUNGUS

Treatment for this condition varies based on the severity and duration of the condition. For mild cases, a topical treatment that involves the application of antifungal medication on the nail may be sufficient. These over-the-counter medications need to be applied regularly and continuously for the nail to start improving. However, it can take months to see any major improvements. Keep the nail trimmed and dry for the best results.

OTC TOE NAIL FUNGUS TREATMENTS

Advanced nail fungus may require stronger prescription-based treatment. Oral antifungal medication is effective against nail fungus as the medication travels from within to kill the organisms causing the problem. Laser treatment and the removal of a section of the nail may also be effective for some patients. A professional from Wasatch Foot & Ankle Institute makes the decision on the ideal treatment for the condition based on a number of factors including the overall health of the patient, condition of the nail and the patient’s lifestyle.

PRESCRIPTION TOE NAIL FUNGUS TREATMENTS

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows inward and into the surrounding skin. This causes inflammation, pain and sometimes infection. The problem is made worse when the nail is cut too short on the sides.

WHAT CAUSES INGROWN TOENAILS

Symptoms of ingrown toenails include redness, swelling, pain along the border of the nail and discomfort when pressure is applied to the nail. An infected nail may also result in a buildup of drainage and increased warmth of the surrounding skin. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek treatment.

SYMPTOMS OF INGROWN TOENAILS

Ingrown toenails can be treated effectively when they are caught early. Soaking the foot in warm water and taking off the pressure on the toe can provide relief. Make sure that you trim the nail straight across and do not cut it too short. Shoes that provide enough room for the toes can also be effective in this situation. Ingrown toenails can heal with this conservative treatment provided they are caught early enough.

HOW TO MANAGE EARLY INGROWN TOENAILS

Ingrown toenails that are recurrent or do not improve with conservative treatment can be improved with in-office treatment. This treatment involves the removal of part of the nail so that it does not push against the surrounding skin and cause inflammation. In some cases, the doctor may cut and remove a portion of the nail root to prevent the edge of the nail from growing into the skin. These solutions are long-term and can also help prevent recurrent episodes.

IN-HOUSE TREATMENT FOR INGROWN TOENAILS

Proper care for your toenails is the first step towards preventing all kinds of problems in your toenails. Your nails should be trimmed regularly with a straight edge. The length of your nail should also be moderate as well. It is also important to wash your feet and ensure that the area between your toes is well cleaned and dried.

HOW TO PREVENT TOE NAIL PROBLEMS

Footwear is also a good place to start when looking for ways to prevent toenail problems. Shoes that crowd your toes, increase pressure on them and do not allow them to breathe well increase your chances of both fungal infections and ingrown nails. Look for shoes made from breathable material and that fit well.

HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT SHOES

Home remedies for toenail problems have been used for generations and some have worked well for a number of people. However, home remedies can have different results for different people. They are also less effective for more advanced infections or nail damage. If the problem persists, do not hesitate to seek professional help.

HOME REMEDIES FOR TOE NAIL FUNGUS

Timely recognition and evaluation of nail problems can make all the difference. Pain, drainage, discoloration and thickening of the nail that persists even after at-home treatment should be evaluated by a professional. People with conditions such as diabetes and poor circulation to the feet should also seek professional help early enough as they are at a greater risk of developing complications.

WHEN TO SEEK HELP FROM A PROFESSIONAL

The team at Wasatch Foot & Ankle Institute can help you get your toenails back to their former glory. Timely treatment can help improve your quality of life by reducing or eliminating discomfort associated with the problem and returning you to your everyday activities.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does toenail fungus take to clear?

It can take several months for toenail fungus to clear due to the slow growth of the nail, even with the right treatment.

Can toenail fungus spread to other nails?

Yes. The fungus can spread to the surrounding skin and the other nails if it is left untreated.

Are ingrown toenails dangerous?

Ingrown toenails can become more serious if they become infected. People with diabetes or circulation problems can develop serious complications from this infection.

Do ingrown toenails always require surgery?

No. Ingrown toenails usually clear with conservative treatment, though they can require surgical treatment if the problem is recurrent.

When should I see a specialist for nail problems?

If you experience pain, drainage, discoloration, and nail thickening that does not improve after at-home treatment, it is time to see a professional.