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Home Remedies for Nail Fungus

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Nail Fungus is a medical condition which occurs when fungus takes root in one of more of your nail beds.

Causes of Nail Fungus

The major cause of nail fungus is the fungus dermatophyte but yeast and molds can also lead to an outbreak of toe nail fungus. The fungus invades the nail bed from invisible cuts or separation of the nail from the nail bed.

Constant exposure to warm and moist conditions facilitates the outbreak of nail fungus.

Toenails often cramped in the damp environment of socks and shoes, with less circulation; are more vulnerable to nail fungus than fingernails.

Conditions that Facilitate Nail Fungus

The damp and moist conditions that breed nail fungus can be fostered by heavy perspiration, working in moist and humid environments or by the presence of athlete’s foot. Avoid going barefoot in swimming pool areas, locker rooms and shared shower spaces; especially if you have cuts, scrapes, chafing or tears in the nail or surrounding areas.

Choose shoes that allow ventilation that prevents moisture from accumulating. Tight shoes and socks will contribute to feet sweating and the damp, moist environment will foster nail fungus.

Certain medical conditions such as diabetes or a weakened immune system may make nail fungus more likely. Psoriasis can also make nail fungus more likely.

Home Remedies for Nail Fungus

Apple cider vinegar, which seems to have no end to its uses, is good to use as a foot soak for nail fungus in the toenails. It can be used for the fingernails as well. The acid in the apple cider vinegar will cause the fungus to die. Home cures suggest one part vinegar to two parts water. Discontinue using if skin becomes red or irritated.

Some home cures suggest Vicks® Vaporub™ can be used to treat nail fungus. It is unclear as to how it is applied to have optimum benefits. It is important to check with your health care profession to ensure that infection doesn’t set in from poor application methods.

Tea tree and olive oil can help with the treatment of nail fungus. Tea tree has natural antibacterial properties that help with fungus and the oils will prevent cracking and crumbling of the infected nail.

Adding probiotics to the diet can help as a nail fungus treatment. Yogurt and kefir are good sources for probiotics. Reduce intake of “white” foods such as refined sugar, white flour and refined carbohydrates. Also watch the intake of dairy products.

If you are wearing socks with your shoes, make the choice of socks cotton. The cotton will allow your feet to breathe and will reduce the moistness in the shoes.

Keep nails trimmed in a straight line and avoid the use of nail polish, which traps moisture between the nail and nail bed.

Article Last Modified Monday, December 14, 2009

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Home Remedies for Nail Fungus

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