Our nails are made of a tough protein called Keratin, which also helps form the hooves and horns of animals. Nails are tough, but they have to face even tougher circumstances as they rub against our shoes for hours at a time, and remain at risk of infection from fungi and bacteria. Toenail problems are not only common, they can also be very debilitating.
The following are the three most common toenail problems and their treatment options:
1. Ingrown Toenail
When the edge of a toenail grows right into the skin next to it, it is called an ingrown toenail. Since the toenail physically breaches the skin, this can be a particularly painful condition. It also results in swelling, redness and a discharge that is normally seen with an infection.
Ingrown toenails can be treated by removing the part of the toenail that is growing into the skin. However, it can be quite a recurring problem for toenails that are afflicted by it.
2. Fungal Nail Infection
The technical term for fungal nail infection is onychomycosis, and it happens whenever our toenails succumb to slow-growing fungus on our nails and the skin around it. It is caused by the same fungi that causes the condition known as athlete’s foot.
Fungal infection of the toenail is characterized by discoloration of the toenail accompanied by thickening and collection of debris around it. The toenails may become brown, white or yellow.
Its best remedy is laser technology, which can effectively remove the fungus A clinic like Clear Toes Clinic utilizes a laser that is designed to specifically remove toenail fungus.
3. Toenail Injury or Trauma
Trauma or injury to the toenail can be chronic due to repetitive stress such as rubbing against the shoe when walking, running or just sitting in the office. It can also be a one-time incident due to stubbing your toe against something.
Toenail injury is treated just like any other injury, but requires more care because of the sensitive nature of the toenail’s coupling with the skin. Like other injuries, it can also result in secondary fungal or bacterial infection.
