How to Cope With Nail Fungus
Nail fungus is unattractive and potentially painful. What starts as a yellow or white spot underneath your fingernail, turns into a completely discolored nail that crumbles apart at the edges. Cope with your nail fungus, alleviate your pain and return your nails to their formerly attractive state. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Identify the problem. Look for thickened, crumbly, nails with an unnatural shape. Some nail fungus gives the nail a dull appearance and a darkened color. Advanced nail fungus may cause pain in your toes, fingertips and produce a foul odor.
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Consult your doctor. Nail fungus is difficult to treat. Most nail fungus requires anti-fungal medication to clear it up and can take several weeks of treatment that may include oral medications along with topical ointments. Talk with your doctor about which course of treatment is most appropriate for you.
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Use a home remedy. Along with the course of treatment prescribed by your doctor, at least one home remedy helps nail fungus. Vinegar appears to inhibit growth of bacteria. Soak your feet in a mixture that includes one part vinegar to two parts warm water. Pour the mixture in a bowl and soak your infected nail for 15 to 20 minutes each day. Rinse your hands or feet thoroughly after each soaking.
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Try over-the-counter ointments. Although it is best to visit your doctor when you suspect nail fungus, you may have to wait a few days for your appointment. There are over-the-counter anti-fungal ointments available for purchase at most pharmacies. They are not as effective as prescribed treatments. Use them only as a temporary fix.
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Prevent nail fungus if you don't want to deal with nail fungus. Trim your nails, clean them and keep them as dry as possible. Wear shoes in public places and use anti-fungal foot powder. Use only hygienic nail salons and stop wearing polish. Polish traps moisture in your nails and makes nail fungus worse.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wash your hands after touching a suspected fungal nail. Fungus spreads from nail to nail through touch.
Toenails are more likely to get fungus than fingernails. This is because feet are typically kept in shoes, which are warm, moist environments.
