How to Cure a Toe Infection

Promptly seek medical attention for a toe infection that does not heal.

A toe infection can occur with or without the presence of pain. Common signs associated with a toe infection include swelling and skin irritation, and pus may or may not be present, depending upon the stage of the infection. Toe infections have a variety of causes that can be addressed by implementing a few all-natural treatment methods. The methods of treating a toe infection can be performed quickly and can provide immediate relief from discomfort.

Things You'll Need

• Nail clippers
• Antibiotic ointment
• Band-aids
• Foot soak bin
• Salt
• Antibiotics
• Vitamin C supplement
• Garlic cloves

Instructions

1. Cut away the portion of ingrown toenail that is slightly curving into the skin with a set of toe nail clippers if the infection is from an ingrown nail; use the clippers to make the edge as straight as possible so the ingrown toenail can grow out correctly. Do not try this method if the nail is curved deeply into the skin; instead, seek immediate treatment from a medical professional to avoid further tissue damage.

2. If you have a small cut in your toe, wash the cut with a mild soap and water. When the cut is clean and dry, apply an antibiotic ointment to the infected area of the toe if there is a small cut present; apply a band-aid over the area to keep it protected while wearing socks and shoes. Repeat this process until the infection diminishes.

3. Carefully cut all of your toenails straight across with a pair of clippers to prevent further issues; soak feet in a foot soak bin containing warm water and 1 tablespoon of salt to soften up thick, hard-to-cut nails and to avoid injury.

4. Wash any areas on your toes (and feet) that have blisters or abrasions with a mild soap and water. Pat them dry and apply antibiotic ointment to blistered areas of the toe that have become infected; cover the toe with a band-aid to keep out excess sweat and to avoid further irritation of the condition.

5. Consume eight ounces of water every single day to help flush out your system and to get rid of unwanted toxins that encourage infection in the body.

6. Incorporate garlic in your diet by eating one or two cloves a day; garlic may strengthen the immune system and promote healing. Add a vitamin C supplement to your diet for further immune system improvements.

7. If the infection becomes difficult to treat at home or is not getting better, consult your health care provider. If she prescribes an antibiotic for you, be sure to complete the entire course.

Tips & Warnings

• Refrain from using nail polish or nail polish removal on infected toenails; this can irritate the condition and cause considerable pain.

• A prolonged toe infection that persists after a variety of treatments can be indicative of the presence of diabetes; if you have difficulty getting rid of the infection, seek out immediate treatment from a qualified physician. If diabetes is present and a foot infection occurs, the infection can worsen to such a degree that amputation of the toe or toes becomes necessary.

• If you notice a red line forming from the toe and running its way up your leg, this can be indicative of the infection traveling through your blood, which must be promptly treated with a course of antibiotics. See a doctor immediately if you are concerned or are unsure if the infection is growing.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• ePodiatry.com: A website offering detailed information about foot disorders, treatments, and care.