Home Treatment of Toenail Fungus

For those seeking home treatment of toenail fungus, a simple pantry staple may serve as the cure.

Know the signs of toenail fungus.

What is Fungus

Just like mold is known to grow in dark, moist and warm places, fungus is able to grow in the same conditions under the nail bed. Fungi is a group of micro-organisms; some have beneficial properties, while others are linked to sickness or disease. Mold and yeasts can be the cause of nail fungus infections, but most often the group of fungi known to cause these conditions is known as dermatophytes.

Toenails are more likely to succumb to fungus rather than fingernails because they are confined to the dark, moist crevices of shoes and socks. In addition, toes have less blood circulation. As people age, fungus thrives in this exact environment, which is why the elderly are more likely to experience nail fungus infections.

Although not entirely common, nail fungus is still a fingernail problem that should be prevented, or identified and treated early.

Nail fungus infections normally begin as a small spot on one nail and quickly spread as mold/fungi spores multiply. Without proper treatment, fungus infections advance and often recur. Recurrence and fungal advancement may cause increased damage to the nail bed, including yellowing, thickening, and crumbling of the nail, and the possibility of a painful infection.

Fungus Symptoms

Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, can be spotted once you know what to look for when analyzing the nail bed. The following symptoms may indicate a fungal infection:

• Dull nails lacking shine and luster
• Dark, thick nails with debris under the nail bed
• Distorted, unruly nail shapes
• Crumbly, brittle or ragged nails
• Nail thickening
• Nail yellowing

Vinegar Cure

Although most people should seek medical attention when treating fungus symptoms, vinegar is known as an effective home treatment of toenail fungus. If the fungus is in the beginning stages of infection, vinegar may be worth a try.

Important Disclaimer: This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any infections. Fungus infections are risky in individuals with diabetes and/or weakened immune systems (such as the elderly, those suffering from leukemia or post-surgery patients.) For these individuals, always seek prompt medical attention if you suspect a nail infection. Most often, toenail fungus begins with a small yellow or white spot on the nail bed.

To treat fungus with vinegar, follow these instructions:

• Purchase a bottle of distilled white vinegar.
• Soak a Q-tip with the vinegar, or purchase a dropper for spot-on application.
• Apply two drops of white vinegar to each affected nail twice per day. Apply vinegar under the free edge of the nail, as close to the fungus as possible.
• Continue treatment until fungus has grown out on the nail bed, and clip off remaining nail.
• Treatment may take weeks or months, depending on the location of the fungus on the nail bed and the advancement of the fungus.
• As the new nail begins to grow at the base of the nail bed, you should see healthy growth.
• Never skip a vinegar application while treating.
• Once the infected nail has been removed, it is important to practice basic nail fungus prevention to avoid a recurrent infection.

Practice Prevention

Although vinegar is the only home treatment for toenail fungus, there are many ways to prevent such infection in the first place. To prevent a fungal infection, make sure to:

• Wear flip flops or sandals in moist, wet, public environments such as locker rooms and pool areas
• Wear cotton or wool socks rather than synthetic fibers
• Dry toenails and fingernails thoroughly after washing
• Take a break from wearing socks and let toenails air out naturally throughout the day

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