Are you noticing that one or more of your toenails is becoming thicker than the rest?
Do you find it difficult to cut or just feel worried about its unsightly appearance?
Do you want to know how to get rid of thick toenails fast?
Keep reading to find out what you can do about this unpleasant and embarrassing condition.
Whether they get thickened, discolored, smelly or just downright ugly, changes in your toenails are actually indicative of an underlying condition.
Most commonly it is a result of fungal infection known as onychomycosis.
However, it can also happen as people get older and blood supply to the nails becomes diminished.
This not only thickens them but makes them prone to infections as well.
In this article, we are going to give you a roundup of the causes and signs of thickened toenails and some of the best ways to get rid of thick toenails fast.
Common Causes Of Thick Toenails
There are a number of reasons why people get thickened toenails.
Most of them are either associated with infections or other medical conditions. Some of the most common causes of thickened toenails are given below.
Fungal Infection
A vast majority of the adult population suffers from a condition known as onychomycosis in which a fungus or yeast goes inside your toenail where your toenail and nail bed meet, in a crack in your toenail or in a cut in your skin that touches your toenail.
It grows under your nail bed where there is ample moisture as moisture helps the fungus spread.
The infection that initially appears minor can easily spread and cause your toenail to grow thicker along with causing other symptoms such as pain and discoloration.
To avoid contracting this infection you should never be found walking around barefoot in public places especially in the gyms, community showers, health clubs, etc.
Injury
Toenails can also experience thickening as a result of sudden or continuous trauma or injury.
This is a common occurrence with soccer players, dancers, runners and also those who wear ill-fitted shoes.
Thickened nails due to injury are associated with sharp pain and bluish green appearance.
Yellow Nail Syndrome
This is a less common cause of thickened nails that affects both hands and feet.
In this condition, your nails become curved, thickened and yellow. It’s often linked to respiratory problems and fluid buildup around the body.
Aging
With age, your body goes through a lot of wear and tear. This involves the thickening of nails as well.
It happens due to less blood supply and poor nutrition.
Along with that elderly people are suffering from a range of diseases such as diabetes that further affects the normal function and appearance of nails.
Aging may cause the toenails, as well as the fingernails, to thicken.
How To Get Rid Of Thick Toenails Fast
It’s possible to treat thick toenails at home using some natural remedies unless it’s a case of a serious infection that requires medical attention.
Here are some simple and natural ways to you can get rid of thick toenails fast.
Give Them A Regular Trim
Thick toenails are often difficult to cut. Therefore, before you try clipping them, soak your feet in warm water for at least 10-15 minutes so that the nails can soften.
Once you’re done, dry your feet thoroughly and then cut your nail using a nail clipper. Make small cuts to avoid splintering of the nail.
Don’t go around the corners as that can increase your chances of getting an infection or ingrown nails. Also, avoid making cuts into your skin.
Use An Antifungal Cream
If your toenail is affected by a fungal or yeast infection use an OTC antifungal cream to treat the area.
In case the infection is severe, contact your doctor immediately.
Try Vinegar Soak
Vinegar can be really effective against fungal infections.
To prepare the soak you will need to fill a large bowl with hot water and add few tablespoons of plain vinegar into it.
Once the temperature is comfortable to touch, dip your feet inside the mixture for a good half an hour. The pH of the vinegar helps kill the fungus.
Use Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is another natural fungicidal treatment. Apply 2-3 drops of the tea tree oil on your nails and gently rub it.
Repeat this procedure once or twice a day especially after you shower.
How To Prevent Toenails From Thickening
Here are a few simple ways that can prevent your toenails from getting thickened.
- Always keep your feet clean by washing them with a good antibacterial soap and water.
- Also, make sure that you keep your feet dry at all times. Wear cotton socks and get shoes that are breathable. Use antifungal foot powder if you have a problem of sweaty feet.
- Never walk barefoot especially when you’re at public. Even if you can’t wear proper shoes, keep a pair of flip flops handy when using public showers, gym locker rooms, health clinics, saunas and more.
- Wear a clean and fresh pair every time you put socks on. Change your socks every day and clean them thoroughly.
- Make sure that your shoes fit well and don’t make your toes feel tight.
- Groom your feet properly. You should never grow your toenails beyond the end of your toe.
- Always use sterilized tools when trimming your nails and doing foot care.
To Sum Up
Untreated toenail conditions can lead to serious complications, not to mention they are extremely painful.
Toenails can get thick to the point that they cause severe discomfort even if you try putting your feet inside your shoes.
In some cases, they can hamper your normal walk as well.
It’s always best to take preventive measures but in case you already have the condition, you should not take it lightly.
We hope that the simple steps mentioned above can help you get rid of thick nails fast.
If you experience anything serious, make a visit to your doctor without any delays.
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