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Dealing with a painful nail infection? You’re not alone. Many people face this common issue but don’t know where to begin. We are here to offer practical tips, remedies and prevention methods. Taking care of your nails can help prevent infection and other health problems.
Let me paint a scenario for you, Sarah, who is an avid runner, frequently experienced athlete’s foot and, eventually, a toenail infection. She tried home remedies such as tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar soaks, which helped reduce symptoms. However, when the infection continued to worsen, she consulted a podiatrist, who diagnosed her with a stubborn fungal infection requiring oral antifungal medication. Sarah’s case here underscores the importance of paying attention to infection signs and knowing when to seek medical help. In her words, “I wish I had visited the doctor sooner—the oral medication made a huge difference!”. If you’ve ever had an ingrown toenail or a nail fungus, you know just how painful and inconvenient these conditions can be.
Typically, the hard surface of your nails helps to protect the tips of your fingers and toes. And your fingernails make it easier to scratch an itch or remove a dog hair from your sweater. Nails themselves are made of keratin. Additionally, keeping your nails looking nice can boost your confidence and help you feel put together. Nail care is important for your hygiene, appearance, health, comfort, and confidence. Keeping nails clean and trimmed can prevent the spread of germs and bacteria, enhance overall appearance, reveal signs of certain health conditions, prevent discomfort, and boost self-confidence.
Types of nail infections
There are several types of nail infections, including fungal infections, bacterial infections, and paronychia:
Fungal infection:
These infections are also known as onychomycosis:
Distal or lateral subungual onychomycosis: The most common type of fungal nail infection, this infection starts in the nail bed and causes a yellowish discoloration that spreads to the centre of the nail.
White superficial onychomycosis: This infection affects the surface of the nail, causing white spots that turn powdery and make the nail crumble.
Proximal subungual onychomycosis: This rare infection starts as white spots in the center of the nail bed and moves outward as the nail grows. It’s often associated with HIV infection.
Candidal onychomycosis: This infection is caused by yeast and usually affects fingernails. The area around the nail may be swollen and inflamed, and the nail may fall off.
Endonyx onychomycosis: This infection affects the interior of the nail plate, but not the nail bed.
Fungal melanonychia: This rare infection causes the nail to turn a brownish or blackish colour.
Bacterial infection:
These infections can be caused by gram negative bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Klebsiella spp. Nails infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa may appear green or black.
Paronychia Infection:
There are two types of paronychia, acute and chronic:
Acute paronychia: Symptoms appear over hours or a few days and last less than six weeks.
Chronic paronychia: Symptoms develop more slowly and usually last six weeks or longer
What causes fungal nails infection
Previous injury or infection to the skin or nail, diabetes, AIDS, circulation problems, a weakened immune system and tight footwear with crowding of toes. It is also caused by microscopic organisms called fungi that can live on the skin, hair, and nails. They can be caused by a number of factors, including:
A weakened immune system
Taking antibiotics or steroids
Cancer treatment
Diabetes
Traveling to an environment with a lot of fungi
Changes to the environment, like construction
Symptoms of fungal nail infection
Symptoms of a fungal infection can vary from mild to serious, depending on the type of fungus. Yeast, molds and other types of fungus cause fungal infections. Most fungi don’t cause disease in people, but a few do. Some infections are opportunistic, meaning they usually don’t cause infections, but can take advantage of certain situations, like a weakened immune system. Some other common symptoms include:
Itching or scaly skin
Skin changes, like cracking or peeling
Asthma-like symptoms
Fatigue
Headache
Muscle aches or joint pain
Night sweats
Weight loss
Chest pain
Athlete’s foot
Jock itch
Ringworm
Home remedies for treating nail infection
Soak the infected area in warm water for about 15 minutes a few times a day. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly. Soaking the cuticle and nailbed helps pus drain from under the skin. If symptoms don’t get better after a day or two of home remedies, see your provider.
Or soak the affected foot or hand 3 to 4 times daily for 20 minutes in antiseptic solution of warm water and chlorhexadine or povidone-iodine
Baking soda: Proponents of baking soda may suggest it as a remedy as it can help absorb moisture that may cause toenail fungus. Additionally, it may possess fungistatic properties, meaning it does not kill fungi but can prevent them from growing. A small older study supports this, suggesting that baking soda can prevent fungal growth. However, there is not much scientific evidence to support baking soda as a remedy and no evidence suggesting it can treat fungal infections.
Essential oils: Some evidence suggests that certain essential oils may possess antifungal properties and have some use alongside existing antifungal treatments. However, these oils can pose a risk of allergy and irritation. A 2020 study using a topical formulation containing vitamin E and essential oils of lime, oregano, and tea tree indicates it may have some benefit in treating onychomycosis. However, it is worth noting that this study used a topical product containing these ingredients, and using them at home may not have the same effect.
Tea Tree Oil: it includes natural antifungal and antibacterial properties. Dilute with carrier oil and apply to affected nails twice daily.
Apple Cider Vinegar: it contains acidity which helps inhibit fungal growth. Soak nails in a 1:1 solution of vinegar and water for 20 minutes daily.
Coconut Oil: it contains caprylic acid and lauric acid, which have antifungal properties. Apply directly to the nails and massage gently.
Garlic: it contains natural antifungal and antibacterial agent. Crush garlic and apply to the infected area or soak nails in garlic-infused olive oil.
Self-care Tips
While home remedies are unlikely to provide many benefits, the following tips may be beneficial:
Keep nails short, dry, and clean.
Use one nail clipper for the infected nails and another for the other toenails.
Wear well-fitting and breathable shoes.
Keep feet dry, wear cotton socks, and change them daily.
Maintain good foot hygiene.
Wear clean shower shoes when using a communal shower.
Consider seeking treatment from a professional if thickened toenails cause discomfort when walking.
Medical Treatment for nail infection
While mild nail infections may respond to home remedies, there are certain signs that indicate professional medical treatment is necessary. Persistent infections that don’t improve after several weeks of home care should be examined by a healthcare provider. Signs that suggest a more serious infection include increasing pain, swelling, or redness around the nail, along with symptoms like pus, fever, or the appearance of an unusually foul odor. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly, as these signs may indicate that the infection has spread or deepened. In severe cases, they may also require surgery to remove the toenail.
For individuals with diabetes, circulation issues, or compromised immune systems, even a minor nail infection can escalate quickly and lead to complications. A healthcare provider can conduct tests to identify the exact type of infection and determine whether oral antifungal medications, topical treatments, or other interventions are necessary. Seeking early medical advice can prevent further discomfort and more invasive treatments, such as surgery to remove the affected nail.
How to prevent nail infection
Keep your hands and feet clean and dry
Wear well-fitting shoes made of natural materials and clean cotton socks – these will allow your feet to “breathe”
Clip your nails to keep them short – don’t share clippers or scissors with other people
Replace old footwear that could be contaminated with fungi
Treat athlete’s foot as soon as possible to avoid the infection spreading to your nails
Ensure your towels are washed regularly
Make sure any equipment is properly sterilized between uses if you visit a nail salon
Do not share towels and socks with other people
Do not walk around barefoot in public pools, showers, and locker rooms – special shower shoes are available to protect your feet
Regular trimming, cleaning under nails, and using sanitized nail tools.
Keep feet dry, especially in shoes and socks; avoid prolonged water exposure.
Wearing breathable, properly fitted shoes to avoid excessive moisture.
Prevent infections, especially for athletes or those prone to sweaty feet.
Don’t share nail tools, avoid walking barefoot in communal areas (gym showers, pools).
Nail infections are common but manageable, often stemming from hygiene, footwear, or weakened immunity. Identifying the infection type—fungal, bacterial, or paronychia—is key for proper treatment. Mild cases may improve with home remedies like tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar, while persistent infections need medical attention. Natural treatments like turmeric and mentholated ointments are popular, though scientific backing varies. Regular nail care, such as keeping nails short and dry, helps prevent infections. Sarah’s experience with a stubborn toenail infection underscores the value of seeking timely medical advice.
Prevention is key. Adopting good nail hygiene, using sanitized tools, and wearing breathable footwear can reduce infection risks significantly. Overall, maintaining clean, well-trimmed nails can help prevent issues, but early medical advice is crucial for infections that do not respond to initial care. Nail health is not just cosmetic; it’s an integral part of personal wellness. Prioritizing nail care can lead to stronger, healthier nails and avoid future complications.
Prevention is key. Adopting good nail hygiene, using sanitized tools, and wearing breathable footwear can reduce infection risks significantly. Overall, maintaining clean, well-trimmed nails can help prevent issues, but early medical advice is crucial for infections that do not respond to initial care. Nail health is not just cosmetic; it’s an integral part of personal wellness. Prioritizing nail care can lead to stronger, healthier nails and avoid future complications.