Common Toenail Problems and Home Remedies

An Overview of Common Toenail Problems

Toenail got you feeling down? Well, it turns out that there are a variety of toenail problems. Let’s dive into the common ones which you may be able to identify with.

Nail Fungus

A condition in which about 1 in 10 people experience, meaning it’s not very uncommon. As you age, you become more prone to this condition. Nail fungus is also referred to as onychomycosis. Onychomycosis can result in discolouration, thickness, and even the separation of the nail from the nail bed. It’s important to regulate your diet and sugar intake, especially if you’re likely to develop a genetic disorder. People with diabetes are more likely to develop nail fungus than the rest of the population.

Ingrown Toenail

Ever observed that your toenail may be poking into the flesh, specifically from the ends of your nails? Well, that is an  ingrown toenail, and can be caused by nail injuries or the usage of a nail clipper that cuts too much of the nail off. You may find yourself experiencing pain because of this.

Nail-patella Syndrome

In nail-patella syndrome, there are many ways you can experience abnormalities in your toenails, which include (but not limited to): rigidity, discolouration, or split toenails. This syndrome is usually caused by the dysfunction of the LMX1B gene that is inherited by a parent. However, mutations may also be the cause of nail-patella syndrome, and may not always be associated with a family history.

Toenail Trauma

Any injury or discomfort to your toes can cause toenail trauma, in which the blood under the nail can be collected together, and therefore, cause pain. The bleeding or bruising under the nail is known as subungual hematoma.

Clubbed Nails

If you experience changes on or around your toenail, your toes may appear widened, or in a club-like shape, hence the name. Clubbed nails are usually a result of a medical condition such as diseases or gastrointestinal disorders, and then this condition continuously grows.

The Dangers of Ignoring Toenail Fungal Infections

It may seem tempting at first to ignore these fungal infections on your toe, since they may not cause you discomfort or pain. However, as time goes by and your feet or toes are experiencing pressure or strain, it can bring about pain. It’s possible that prolonging treatment of the toenail fungal infection can lead to difficulty in moving your feet.

Is toothpaste good for toenail fungus?

Toothpaste does not have antifungal properties to counter toenail fungus, so it is unlikely that toothpaste will do you any good. Toothpaste helps in skin irritation because it acts as an antiseptic, but will not fight against the fungus.

How to tell if an ingrown toenail is infected?

There are many symptoms associated with an ingrown toenail as listed below:

• Bleeding
• Foul smell
• Throbbing
• Pain when in contact with another thing
• Fluid buildup
• Swelling
• Redness

Why do ingrown toenails smell?

When you have breakage in the skin, you often cover it up or keep it clean, or else bacteria can infect the skin. Ingrown toenails smell because of the bacteria that can potentially surround the split skin. When there are ingrown nails, there is likely breakage of the skin associated with it, and constant prodding of the ingrown toenail can result in bacteria entering the skin, and therefore, give off an odor.

Does Vicks Vaporub really cure toenail fungus?

While Vicks Vaporub contains traces of antifungal ingredients, the concentration of these ingredients is low, so it will not work against toenail fungus effectively. There are faster and effective remedies for toenail fungus, making Vicks an ineffective product in comparison to other treatments.

What are the major causes of ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails are commonly caused by the following:

• A hereditary condition
• Trauma toenail – the injury and constant discomfort on your toenail
• Trimming your nails too short
• Footwear that is either too big or too small
• Other fungal infections or toenail problems

What is the cheapest way to get rid of toenail fungus?

Home remedies are effective and cheap ways to get rid of toenail fungus. Some of these remedies include:

• Hydrogen peroxide application on the toenail
• Epsom salt
• Black tea
• Baking soda
• Apple cider vinegar
• Garlic
• Use of essential oils

There are many drug-free alternatives available for treatment. Keep in mind that the efficacy of the remedy is also dependent on the severity of your toenail fungus.

Why do toenails turn yellow?

Yellow toenails are likely a result of a fungus on your toenail. Abnormal shoe shapes, nail polish, or simply aging, are all factors to take into account when discussing why your toenails may be yellow. Yellow toenails are common among many people. Depending on the cause, you may need over-the-counter medication, or even proper fitting shoes to solve your cause. Orthotic clinics are reliable in ensuring that your shoes will fit and remain comfortable for you to wear, preventing your toenails from turning yellow. Proper maintenance of your feet is just as essential in preventing discolouration.

At our Burlington foot clinic, our team of clinicians are able to successfully and quickly treat toenail fungus and other common toenail problems to restore the function and aesthetics to your foot. Serving Milton, Oakville, Hamilton, Burlington, and Waterdown areas, we help you get back to healthy and happy living. Call us at 289-245-6624.