Cures for Toe Fungus

Toe fungus is created by living organisms that grow in damp, dark places. Since toes and feet are so often enclosed in shoes and socks, the fungi thrive in those conditions. Nails can turn yellow and dark as a result of fungus growth. They also can become thick and brittle and break off. Toe fungus is embarrassing and unsightly and can turn painful if not treated.

Prescriptions

A doctor can provide an oral medication made to cure toe fungus. Drugs such as Sporonox, Lamisil and Diflucan have proven effective in treating toe fungus. However, side effects of the drugs can prevent some people from using the treatments. Reports of nausea, headaches and liver damage have been associated with toe fungus-fighting medications. Serious side effects also can occur when these medications are taken with other drugs.

Drops

Topical drops are available that can help to kill the fungus. The anti-fungal solutions found in products such as Futspa contain ingredients such as tea tree oil, lavender and thyme. By placing a few drops of the liquid on the edge of the toes twice a day, the fungus can be eradicated for some people. However, the discoloration and hardening of the nail will not disappear until the new nail grows in.

Home Remedies

While taking care to keep toes dry, many people have found home remedies can kill off the fungus. Some common cures that work include soaking feet in Listerine mouthwash, which is an antiseptic. Soaking toes in a mixture of apple cider vinegar and warm water for 10 to 20 minutes a day also has proven effective for curing the fungus. Others have found success by mixing two drops of oregano essential oil with a tablespoon of olive and applying it to the affected area once a day for three weeks.

Diet

People who have taken antibiotics often are more susceptible to toe fungus because the good bacteria gets killed off as well as the infections. Adding probiotics through supplements or through diet changes can help to add the good bacteria back into the body so that it can work to destroy the toe fungus. Probiotics are found in food such as yogurt and kefir. Many dairy and cereal products on the market also contain added probiotics.

Prevention

Prevention is the best cure for toe fungus. The bacteria are easily spread through public places where pools of standing water provide the perfect environment for spreading this condition. Sandals and shoes should be worn when walking though water, especially at swimming pools and in fitness centers. Socks made of 100 percent wool or cotton and shoes with air holes can help to keep feet dry so toe fungus cannot develop. Nail polish can starve the toes of necessary air, allowing the fungus to grow. Feet should be dried thoroughly after bathing to prevent toe fungus from developing.

Resources

• Toenail Fungus.org