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How to Treat Nail Fungus with Home Remedies

By Diane Hanson

Nail fungus (also known as onychomycosis) is a common condition in which fungi get under your fingernail or toenail and cause an infection. The infection can be in the nail or the nail bed. Once the fungus has attacked your nail, it starts to grow and spread.

It is important that you treat the nail fungus as soon as the symptoms appear in order to prevent the infection of your other nails, saving you lots of unnecessary pain and embarrassment.

Nail Fungus Home Cures

1. There are several home remedies for nail fungus that are safe and readily available from your kitchen. One simple homemade remedy is to use a solution that has disinfectant and anti-fungal properties such as apple cider vinegar on the affected area.

Soak a cotton ball in the organic apple cider vinegar and leave on the nail. Wrap a large band-aid over the cotton ball to keep it in place for several hours a day.

2. Some naturopaths suggest using tea tree oil to treat nail fungal infection. You can apply a few drops of undiluted tea tree oil directly onto the affected area or you can use the oil along with vinegars or other essential oils such as lavender. It will help soothe the irritated skin around the nail fungus.

3. Many people read on the Internet about Vicks Vapo Rub as another home remedy for nail fungus. While some people see great results with daily application, others claim that this home cure is ineffective.

4. There are also over-the-counter topical treatments and oral anti-fungal treatments available. The type of treatment you choose is dependent on the severity of your nail fungal infection.

Topical medications usually do not provide a cure, but may be used in conjunction with oral medications such as terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox).

It is recommended that if you suffer for other conditions, such as diabetes or have HIV, you should seek doctor’s advice to treat nail fungus problem immediately so that it does not cause further damage to your skin.

Nail Fungus Prevention

Prevention is the best cure. You should trim your nails regularly with your own nail clippers and in a straight line to avoid nail fungal infections. Keep nails short, clean and dry since fungus grows quickly in moist environment.

If you go for professional manicures and pedicures, make sure the salon practice good sanitation methods or use your own instruments – you never know if someone infected has used the salon's. Remember nail fungus is contagious.

It is also worth noting that artificial nails and nail polish can contribute to nail fungus. Also, resist the temptation to use them to cover up an existing fungal infection as it can make them even worse.

In addition, avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or do not absorb perspiration. Open footwear and absorbent socks are preferable. Change socks at once if it becomes damp. You use anti-fungal sprays and powders in your shoes or on your feet to eliminate any fungus that might be present.

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