Nail Fungus
November 6, 2009
Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is caused by tinea unguium. It is divided into four categories- White superficial onychomycosis, Proximal subungual onychomycosis, Candidal onychomycosis, Distal subungual onychomycosis.
White superficial onychomycosis is a rare kind of toe fungus. It appears as raised “island” on the nail plate. The superficial plate of the nail plate is affected.
Proximal subungual onychomycosis is found in people with weaker immune system. This is also rare. Candidal occurs on hands which remain immerged in water very frequently. Distal type affects the inner side and the nail bed of the person.
Who is at Risk?
Anyone can get nail fungus. Critical factors that increase the risk are history of nail fungus in family, heavy perspiration, tobacco usage, wearing uncomfortable gloves and socks and staying in humid environment for long.
Those who get nail treatments done in parlors should make sure that all proper hygiene is maintained. The infection can take place from the nail equipment.
Signs of Infection
The nail bed starts to appear discolored and nails appear brittle and flaky. The nails may become thick and pain on wearing shoes. The color of the nails may appear black, brown or yellow.
Remedies
Squeeze out lemon juice and do not dilute it. Soak a cotton ball into the solution and rub on the nails and the surrounding skin. The concentrated lime juice helps in fighting the fungal infection.
One may soak feet and hands in alcohol for 20 minutes or so and rub them. Dry the hands and feet completely afterwards. The alcohol too acts as an anti fungal agent.
The area can be soaked in a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water (taken in equal amounts) for 10 to 15 minutes.
One remedy is to mix 2 drops of oregano essential oil in 1 tbsp of olive oil and apply it daily on the effected area. Similar benefit can be obtained by applying mixture of tea tree oil and lavender oil. These two remedy are more effective on toe nail fungus.
Onion slices are also effective in getting rid of fungus. For this, rub then on the area for some time. Paste of turmeric powder and water is a good antifungal home remedy.
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