Wednesday, June 13, 2012

How To Treat Your Toe Nail Infections

By Steve Rian


A toenail fungal infection is very easy to get and can be very painful and unsightly. Also, it can take six months or more to treat and heal. That's why it makes sense to avoid getting a toenail fungal infection in the first place. Here are some simple steps you can take to keep your toe nails healthy and infection-free.

Caused by organisms similar to mold, mildew, and yeast, a toe nail fungal infection is likely to develop in a warm and moist environment. You can contract a toenail fungal infection by stepping barefoot into a warm puddle of water in a public place as easily as from having perpetually sweaty feet. The best prevention against toenail fungal infection is to keep your feet and toenails as clean and dry as possible.

One such home remedy is soaking the affected foot in Listerine mouth wash. It's stated that you are suppose to do this at least twice a day, for approximately five minutes each time, then make sure you dry your toes completely.

Application of Listerine to affected toenails should be continued even as you notice positive results. It should also be done everyday to achieve faster healing. Even if you think that the infection has already subsided, it is best to go on with your home remedy. This can prevent recurrence. Lastly, Listerine for toenail fungus treatment is just an alternative treatment and is not meant to replace a visit to your doctor in any case.

The main part of the nail that is affected the nail plate. This is the hardest part that also gives shape to the nail and the toe. It is made of keratin, which is a continuum of dead matter and the connective tissues. This is the part that if made soft or made loose in its connection with the nail root or nail bed, would give room for fungal infection.

Once present within the GI tract the fungus can easily spread to colonize the entire tract. The fungus can compete with the local flora of a healthy gut and end up displacing them given enough time. The consumption of fermented and acidic foods will accelerate the process.

If the infection is severe, the specialist might need to remove the toenail through a surgical procedure. Prior to this, anesthesia will be administered to numb the affected area. A scalpel will then be used to completely or partially remove the affected toenail. When removed, sodium hydroxide or phenol will be applied to destroy the roots and prevent the recurrence of the condition. A bandage will be tied on the operated toe to protect the area.

If you do notice any of these problems you may want to use a nail fungus solution which will naturally deal with the problem and create nails that you aren't afraid to show off in public. The earlier it is discovered the quicker it will be to treat.




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