It is monsoon, and we are cognizant of the fact that fungus loves humidity! Fungal infections can emerge anywhere. Even your toe nails are not spared. In fact, a research published by the National Library of Medicine revealed that fungal infections are the cause of 50 percent of nail conditions in people seen by dermatologists. Plus, looking at online searches for how to get rid of toenail fungus fast, we can safely say that this is a problem that plagues a lot of people. There are many home remedies for toenail fungus. Soaking feet in vinegar is one thing, but people often get confused about what to use – white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for toenail fungus!
To help you decide, Health Shots consulted Dr. Vaishali Lokhande, Consultant Internal Medicine, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus is technically called onychomycosis and is a common fungal infection that affects the toenails, says Dr. Lokhande. Various types of fungi such as dermatophytes, yeasts and molds are behind this infection. It’s not pretty because it usually starts at the edge or base of the nail and slowly spreads, causing thickening, discolouration, brittleness and sometimes a foul odor.
causes of toenail fungus
The most obvious reason is poor hygiene. If you’re not keeping your feet clean and dry, wearing dirty or sweaty socks, and using dirty shoes, all of this can create a comfortable environment for fungal growth. Toenail fungus can be caused by a number of factors. Let’s check them out!
1. Fungal overgrowth
Fungi thrive in warm and moist environments such as public swimming pools, gyms, and showers. Dr. Lokhande says, walking barefoot in these areas can increase the risk of fungal infection.
2. Damaged nails
Injury or trauma to the toenail, such as cracks or separation from the nail bed, can allow the fungus to enter and cause an infection.
3. Weak Immune System
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS and immunodeficiency disorders, can weaken the immune system and make people more susceptible to fungal infections.
Read also: Diabetes and Fungal Infections: Find the Connection
White Vinegar as a Toenail Fungus Remedy
White vinegar is often recommended as a home remedy to help manage toenail fungus due to its acidic properties. They can create an unfavorable environment for the fungus.
Here’s how to use it:
• Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a tub.
• Soak the affected foot or feet in the solution for 15 to 20 minutes.
• After getting wet, dry your feet thoroughly, including your toenails.
Experts suggest doing this once or twice every day for several weeks or until you see improvement.
apple cider vinegar for toenail fungus
Apple cider vinegar is another home remedy that people rely on to treat toenail fungus. Like white vinegar, it is believed to have antifungal properties.
Here’s how to use it:
• Take apple cider vinegar and dilute it with an equal amount of warm water.
• Dip the affected feet or legs in this for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Dry your feet thoroughly.
Repeat this process once or twice daily for several weeks.
White vinegar or apple cider vinegar to kill toenail fungus
Experts say that both white vinegar and apple cider vinegar have been suggested as home remedies for toenail fungus, but there is no clear scientific evidence to demonstrate the superiority of one over the other. The acidic nature of both vinegars can create an inhospitable environment for fungus. Some people may have personal preferences or anecdotal experience with one type of vinegar over another, but it is important to remember that these remedies may not work for everyone. Experts say that vinegar can aid in the treatment, but it is not a complete treatment in itself.
Ways to treat toenail fungus
Over-the-counter antifungal creams, ointments, or nail lacquers containing ingredients such as clotrimazole, terbinafine, or ciclopirox are readily available. These can be applied directly to the affected nails. Here are some more ways to treat toenail fungus:
1. Oral Antifungal Medications
In cases of more severe or widespread toenail fungus, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed. Experts say that drugs like terbinafine and itraconazole have to be taken for several weeks or months. They help eliminate the infection as new nails grow in place of the infected nail.
2. Surgical or Procedural Intervention
If toenail fungus is particularly resistant or causes significant nail deformity or discomfort, your doctor may recommend surgical or procedural intervention. This may include partial or complete removal of the affected nail, laser treatment, or photodynamic therapy. The aim of these treatments is to remove the infected nail and allow the growth of a healthy nail.
Even after the treatment is over, it is best to take preventive measures so that you do not have to face toenail fungus again. This means keeping your feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, wearing well-ventilated shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in public areas.
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