Fighting Nail Fungus Infection with an Oregano, Clove, and Cinnamon Combination

Toenail fungus infections can be harmless at first, but this condition may lead to any of the following: low self-esteem, pain and swelling in the feet and toes, severe itching and cracked toes, skipping social events and activities like spas and pools, and even fear or aversion to open-toe shoes.

Causes

Nail fungus infection is that kind of infection that can originate from the space between the nails and skin. Toenail fungal infections are more common than fingernail fungus infections. This is because the feet are often confined in shoes and socks, which can offer a conducive environment for fungus to grow. Fungus thrives in warm and damp areas such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and gyms. The most common cause of this infection is the fungus called dermatophytes. It can also be caused by molds and yeast.

Symptoms

Toenail fungus has various effects on the nails. This type of infection may cause the toenails to appear discolored and misshapen. The nail may also thicken once the infection spreads. Other common symptoms include dry and brittle nails and sometimes they have jagged edges. It may start from the nail of one toe and spread to the other toenails. When the infection is left untreated, it may eventually cause pain and discomfort and at times a foul odor may come from the infected nail.

Treatment

A foot doctor may help you find the proper treatment to get rid of toenail fungus. There are antifungal medications that can be used to cure infections. Such medications may be in the form of oral antifungal pills or topical medications. Laser treatment is another type of nail fungus treatment that is known to work against nail fungus. In this process, a laser is directed through the toenail to eliminate the fungal infection at its root. Laser treatment is painless, and it is fast-acting. It also has no side effects.