How To Get Rid Of Unsightly Fungus Nails

Fungus nails are a common problem that can be unsightly and difficult to get rid of. If you have fungus nails, you may be embarrassed to show your hands or feet in public. You may also be worried about the health of your nails and the risk of the infection spreading.

There are many factors that can contribute to the development of fungus nails. Fungal infections of the nails are more common in people who have diabetes, psoriasis, or other chronic medical conditions. People who have weakened immune systems are also at increased risk.

Fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, so wearing tight-fitting shoes or socks can also contribute to the development of fungus nails. If you have fungus nails, then you are not alone. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, one in every ten people has a fungal nail infection.

What Are Fungus Nails?

Fungus nails are nails that have been damaged by a fungal infection. The fungus attacks the nail bed and surrounding skin. Fungus nails can present many different appearances. They can be thick, yellowed and crumbly, or brittle and cracked. Some people have white dots under the nail; this is called "pitting" of the nail. Fungus nails can appear in any nail shape, including round and pointed. The nails may be soft to the touch. Fingernails are more commonly affected than toenails, but both can be affected by fungus. Women are more likely than men to develop nail fungus. "People with diabetes, athletes, and those who wear artificial nails are all at an elevated risk for nail fungus."

How Do You Get a Fungus Nail?

A fungal nail infection is an opportunistic infection that can affect anyone, although it is more common in people who have diabetes or a weakened immune system. The most common symptom of a fungal nail infection is a thickened, yellow, or discolored nail. If the infection is left untreated, it can cause the nail to become brittle and eventually fall off.

Fungal nails are most often caused by the same types of fungi that cause athlete's foot. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, which is why they are often found in public places like swimming pools and locker rooms. Fungal nails can also be caused by over-washing or scrubbing the feet, which damages the nails and allows the fungi to take hold.

Prevention

There are some simple steps that can be taken to prevent the development of fungus nails. To prevent the development of fungus nails, there are some simple steps that can be taken.

1. Keep your nails clean and trimmed. This will help to prevent bacteria and fungi from getting under your nails and causing an infection.

2. Avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes or socks. This can cause your feet to sweat, which creates an environment that is conducive to the growth of fungi.

3. If you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation, be sure to see your doctor regularly so that any early signs of nail fungus can be treated promptly.

How to Get Rid of Fungus Nails

According to the Mayo Clinic, fungi nails are a common condition that can be difficult to treat. There are several effective treatments that can help to get rid of fungus nails, however, it may take several months of treatment before you see results. Here are some tips for getting rid of fungus nails:

1. Talk to your doctor about prescription antifungal medications. These medications can be taken orally or applied directly to the nail and are often effective in treating fungal infections.

2. Apply a topical antifungal cream or ointment to the affected nails. Be sure to follow the directions on the package carefully.

3. Home Remedy

- Soak your nails in a vinegar solution. Vinegar is thought to have antifungal properties that can help kill the fungus causing your infection. Soak your infected nails for ten minutes in a solution made of 1 cup vinegar and 2 cups water. Repeat this soak every night for about two weeks to get rid of the infection. Avoid soaking your nails in a solution that contains rubbing alcohol, which can dry out your nails.

- Try a home remedy made with tea tree, lavender or eucalyptus oil. Place 2 drops of tea tree, lavender or eucalyptus oil in 1/3cup of warm water. Soak your infected nails for 10 minutes and then dry them thoroughly with a towel. Repeat this soak daily until the infection is gone.

4. One option is to remove the nails completely.

This process is called debridement. Debridement involves carefully removing the infected nails from the nail bed. This can be done by a doctor or other medical professional. Once the nails are removed, you will need to take care of your nail beds. Be sure to keep them clean and dry. You may also need to use an antifungal cream or ointment.

Conclusion

Fungus nails can be a difficult problem to treat, but there are effective treatments available. With treatment, it usually takes several months for the nails to grow out healthy and clear. But be patient and stick with it—you can get rid of unsightly fungus nails for good.

Talk to your doctor about your options, which may include oral antifungal medication or medicated nail polish or cream. In some cases, the nails may need to be removed completely (a process called debridement).