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Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, occurs when the toenails are affected by fungal infection. The visible symptoms are nail discoloration, bad smell and thickened nail structure. A stinging pain on the underside of the nail is another symptom. The infection may lead to yellow or brown color of the nail, which may flake in due course because of brittleness. It takes place mostly because of exposing the toes to damp environment for longer durations, when fungi get a chance to invade the nail region and impair the defensive keratin layer. Continually working in wet environments, wearing tight shoes and trimming the nails very closely are some reasons. The likelihood of toenail fungus infection is much higher in people having lesser immunity.

The main forms of toenail fungus treatment are non-prescription ointments, oral and topical prescription drugs as well as home remedies. It is important to prevent the fungus infection from spreading to other nails. In order to thwart the fungus from infusing further, toenails and shoes should be kept dry by regular ventilation. The strong fungicidal characteristic of tea tree oil can be utilized by applying it on the nail infection. Apple cider vinegar also allows a home-made remedy, and the nails can be rinsed with it so as to check fungal infestation by reducing the pH. Preparing a mixture of vinegar and warm water and dipping the toes in it helps fight the problem. Vicks vaporub is known to treat the infection, though it is not capable of eliminating it.

Though home remedies are effective, symptoms should be addressed to a doctor to find the appropriate treatment. Itraconazole, Fluconazole and Zeta Clear are some of the common anti-fungal ointments. Topical medications prescribed by doctors usually contain ciclopirox or amorolfine. If the patient has a significant discomfort, oral medications, such as terbinafine and itraconazole are prescribed. They need to be taken for months at a stretch and are associated with side effects.

Research has revealed that fungus is an anaerobic organism, which lives in places where there is little oxygen. As a result, higher levels of oxygen can wipe out fungal growth. It has been suggested that using ozone as an active ingredient in anti-fungal preparations could fight the infection. Besides the anti-microbial characteristic, ozone acts as a stimulant to stir up the manufacture of white blood cells, which in turn fights the infection. Surgery is sought as the final option, when the fungal infection is uncontrollable and mobility is hindered. Laser offers a fast and pain-free treatment, but it is costly.

Discoloring toenails accompanied by agonizing pain require due attention to ensure appropriate toenail fungus treatment and safe upkeep afterwards.