Toenail Fungus Home Remedies -- Effective Natural Prevention And Treatment

Toenail fungus is obstinate. By 70, almost half the population has experienced this problem. Behind these statistics are two contributing factors; most of the time toes are inside shoes, and poor blood circulation in older people's feet leaves them open to infection, especially if they are diabetic. Toenail fungus home remedies are popular choices over medical treatment, as the medical route lasts up to six months. The fungus appears to have gone and so people stop their treatment at this point, but the infection is still there. Nails are made of keratin, which the fungus feeds on. Initially it does not hurt so are people often unaware before their toenails get thicker, turn brown or yellow and become crumbly. The condition is unattractive and can produce a foul smelling discharge. It can lead to other diseases, which spread in cases of weak immune systems. Pain and permanent nail damage can result. Fungal organisms prefer warmth and moisture. They commonly thrive around public places where people go barefoot; swimming pools and showers. Highly contagious, fungi can penetrate microscopic cuts and nestle between the nail and nail-bed. Fungal infections develop only in ideal conditions; warmth and moisture on an ongoing basis. Once someone is infected the rest of their family will probably also catch it. Tips for prevention are provided because it is easier to avoid than to cure. Take care to dry your feet properly. Always apply anti-fungal foot powder after bathing or any activity where your feet get wet. Your socks and shoes keep your feet in ideal circumstances for fungal growth; warm, wet and in the dark. Change your shoes every day to give them time to dry inside. Allow your feet the freedom of the open air whenever possible and try wearing sandals rather than closed shoes. Wear clean socks every day and choose cotton or natural fibers instead of synthetic socks. After touching an infected nail, wash your hands thoroughly, otherwise the fungus could spread. Don't pick your nails or cuticles as germs could gain access this way. Always wear shoes in public places like showers or swimming pools. Avoid applying nail polish or artificial nails rather than hide a nail infection, because these can trap moisture in the nails. Apple-cider vinegar and tea-tree oil are the best natural remedies. Using bleach is not recommended because it causes dangerous chemical burns. You should persist with your home remedy for several months as the fungus can be hidden even though it appears to be gone. To ensure that the treatments are effective, clip your toenails properly and regularly. Remember -- this is not professional medical advice. Go to see a doctor if you think you have a fungus. Vinegar -- Use one part apple-cider vinegar to two parts warm water and soak the feet for 20 minutes twice per day. Be sure to rinse properly and dry them thoroughly. If this causes irritation, dilute the vinegar more and reduce the frequency of the foot-bath. Apply tea-tree oil twice daily to the nails and surrounding area. Do this after bathing and drying the feet carefully. Use only 100% tea-tree oil -- it is a natural anti-fungal. Many people recommend alternating between these two remedies from day to day.