Sophia Delgado
Toenail fungus is a common condition that can cause nails to thicken, discolour, and become brittle. While treating toenail fungus, it is recommended to keep nails trimmed to reduce pressure and pain. However, cutting toenails with fungus requires extra care to prevent the spread of the infection and potential complications such as ingrown toenails or cut skin. So, should you trim your nails short if you have nail fungus?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Thick, discoloured and easy to break |
| Causes | Fungi that cause athlete's foot |
| Treatment | Antifungal pills, creams, gels, sprays, nail polishes, home remedies, nail removal |
| Prevention | Keep nails short, wear flip-flops/shower shoes, change shoes and socks daily, use sanitised tools, clean clippers, soak nails in warm water before cutting |
| Symptoms | Pain, nail feeling hot |
| Complications | Infection, ingrown toenails, cut skin |
| Diagnosis | Dermatologist examination, blood test, nail sample |
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What You'll Learn
Toenail fungus treatment options
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common but challenging condition. It is caused by fungi called dermatophytes that infect the skin beneath the nail, and yeast is another common culprit. Toenails are especially vulnerable to infection when bare feet come into contact with damp surfaces, such as showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms. If you have athlete's foot, the infection can spread to the nails. Toenail fungus can also be caused by wearing closed shoes, such as athletic shoes, for extended periods, especially if the shoes and/or socks are damp from perspiration or heat. If your shoes fit snugly enough to put pressure on your toes, they can damage the nail bed, making it more susceptible to infection. People with chronic diseases, such as diabetes or circulatory problems, are also more prone to toenail infections.
- Over-the-counter treatments: These include creams, ointments, sprays, and liquids. Ask your pharmacist for a recommendation or look for ingredients such as ciclopirox (Penlac), efinaconazole (Jublia), and tavaborole (Kerydin). These are best for surface fungus, as the products don't penetrate the nail bed. It may take a year of daily use before you see the fungus go away.
- Prescription topical medication: Your doctor may recommend a prescription-strength topical medication if over-the-counter treatments are not effective.
- Oral anti-fungal pills: Oral anti-fungal medication is usually more effective than topical treatments but may interact with other medications and can affect the liver. You will likely need to take these for at least two months, and possibly up to six months.
- Laser treatment: Toenail fungus laser treatment can temporarily improve the nail but has a lower cure rate than oral medication.
- Nail removal: In severe cases that do not respond to treatment, the infected nail may be surgically removed to treat the nail bed, and a healthy nail can then grow back.
In addition to these medical treatments, there are also some home remedies that may be effective in treating toenail fungus:
- Tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil: Both oils have antifungal properties and have been found to be as effective as some over-the-counter and prescription topical antifungal treatments.
- Ozonized sunflower oil: A Brazilian study found that sunflower oil worked to treat toenail fungus infections caused by yeast.
- Baking soda: Researchers found that baking soda prevented fungal growth in 79% of the specimens tested. Apply a paste of baking soda and water directly to the affected nail and let it sit for at least 10 minutes before rinsing.
- Vicks VapoRub: A small study found that this mentholated ointment had a positive effect on toenail fungus.
It is important to note that home remedies may only treat the symptoms rather than the infection itself, so it is always best to talk to your doctor if you think you have toenail fungus. Toenail fungus can take a long time to go away, so it is important to be patient and follow your doctor's instructions for treatment.
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How to trim toenails with fungus
Toenail fungus is a common condition where the nail becomes thick, discoloured, and brittle. Trimming your toenails when they are affected by fungus can be challenging, but it can be done with the right tools and techniques. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to trim your toenails if you have a fungal infection:
Soak Your Nails in Warm Water:
Before trimming your nails, it is essential to soften them. Soak your nails in warm water for about 10 to 30 minutes. You can also add a teaspoon of salt for every pint of water to help soften your nails further. Alternatively, you can apply a urea cream to your nails and cover them with a bandage for up to 24 hours for deeper penetration and softening.
Use the Right Tools:
Toenails affected by fungus can become thickened and harder to cut. Instead of regular nail clippers, opt for nail nippers, which look like small scissors and have stronger blades designed for cutting thickened toenails. Ensure that your nail nippers are clean and disinfected to prevent the spread of the fungus.
Trim Your Nails Straight Across:
When cutting your nails, make small, horizontal cuts straight across the nail. Start at one corner of your nail and work your way across. Avoid rounding the edges of your nails, as this can increase the risk of ingrown toenails. Trim your nails just shorter than the ends of your toes to prevent the fungus from spreading and to reduce the pressure and pain caused by the infection.
File Down Sharp Edges:
After trimming your nails, use a nail file or emery board to smooth out any sharp edges. Filing your nails can also help thin the nail bed, making it easier to manage and treat the infection. Be gentle when filing to avoid causing any discomfort or damage to your nails.
Visit a Doctor or Pharmacist:
If trimming your toenails is painful or challenging, or if you suspect a more severe infection, consult a doctor or pharmacist. They can recommend appropriate treatments, such as antifungal medications, creams, or pills. They may also advise you on additional steps to prevent the spread of the infection and ensure proper nail care during treatment.
Remember, toenail fungus can take a long time to clear up, so be patient and consistent with your treatment plan. Maintaining good nail hygiene and following the above steps can help you manage your toenail fungus effectively.
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Preventing fungal nail infections
Keep Nails Short and Clean
It is important to keep your nails trimmed and clean to prevent the buildup of dirt and moisture, which can lead to fungal growth. Trim your nails straight across, avoiding rounded edges, and keep toenails shorter than the ends of your toes. This helps prevent the fungus from entering and spreading. Additionally, avoid ripping your nails, as this can create entry points for the fungus.
Practice Good Foot Hygiene
Fungal nail infections thrive in warm, dark, and moist environments, so it's crucial to maintain proper foot hygiene. Wear clean socks and shoes daily, opting for breathable footwear that doesn't fit too tightly. Sanitized, acrylic socks are recommended over cotton ones, as they are more effective at wicking away sweat. When in communal areas like gyms or showers, wear flip-flops or shower shoes to avoid direct contact with potentially contaminated surfaces.
Treat Athlete's Foot Promptly
Fungal nail infections are often caused by the same fungi that cause athlete's foot. Therefore, it is essential to treat athlete's foot as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading to your nails. Antifungal creams, sprays, or powders can be used to treat athlete's foot and reduce the risk of nail infections.
Avoid Sharing Nail Tools
Fungal nail infections can spread from person to person, so it's important to avoid sharing nail tools like clippers, files, or nippers. If you visit a nail salon, ensure they sanitize their tools properly. Additionally, remember to clean your nail clippers and files regularly to prevent the spread of any potential fungi.
Keep Nails Dry and Softened
Fungi thrive in moist environments, so keep your nails dry whenever possible. However, softened nails are easier to trim, so consider soaking your nails in warm water for about 10 minutes before cutting them. You can also add a teaspoon of salt to the water to help soften the nails further. Remember to dry your nails thoroughly afterward.
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When to seek medical advice
Toenail fungus is a common condition, but it can take a long time to go away. If you think you have a fungal nail infection, you should speak to a pharmacist or doctor. Here are some signs that you should seek medical advice:
- If you have a weakened immune system, for example, if you have had an organ transplant or are undergoing chemotherapy.
- If the appearance of your nail bothers you or causes you pain.
- If you are unable to trim your nails due to thickening or if trimming your nails causes pain.
- If you have tried home remedies or over-the-counter treatments without success.
- If your toenail fungus keeps returning despite preventive measures, or if you are unsure of the root cause.
- If your symptoms are severe, or your toenail turns brown or black.
Your doctor or podiatrist can examine your nails and recommend the best course of treatment. Treatment options may include antifungal medications, such as pills, creams, or gels, and in severe cases, nail removal may be recommended. It is important to follow the treatment plan as directed and to be patient, as it can take several months for the infection to clear and for your nail to return to normal.
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Tools to trim toenails with fungus
Toenail fungus is a common condition that can cause nails to thicken, turn yellow, or even start to lift from the toe. It is important to keep your nails trimmed to reduce any pressure and pain caused by the fungus. Here are some tools and techniques to help you trim your toenails if you have a fungal infection.
Firstly, it is important to use the right tools. Toenails affected by fungus can become thickened and difficult to cut with regular clippers. Therefore, it is recommended to use a pair of nail nippers, which look similar to scissors and have stronger blades. Professional-grade toenail clippers, such as the ClipPro nail clipper, are specifically designed for thick and irregular nails. Its wide jaw and curved blades make it easier to manoeuvre and provide a smooth cut. Alternatively, an electric nail grinder, such as the Beurer Electric Nail and Foot Care Kit, can be used to thin and shape the nails. It comes with various bits, including cones and discs made from long-lasting sapphire and diamond chips, that can effectively grind down thick toenails.
Before trimming your nails, it is advisable to soften them to make the cutting process easier. You can soak your nails in warm water for 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the severity of the thickness. Adding a teaspoon of salt to the water can also help soften the nails. Another option is to apply urea cream to your nails and cover them with a bandage for up to 24 hours before trimming.
When trimming your nails, it is important to follow these key guidelines: cut straight across the nail, avoid rounding the corners, and keep the nails shorter than the ends of your toes. Trimming in this way helps to prevent ingrown nails and reduce the risk of fungus spreading. Additionally, always clean your nail-cutting tools before and after each use with rubbing alcohol or disinfectant to prevent the spread of fungus and bacteria.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, keeping your nails trimmed is an important step in preventing the spread of nail fungus. Toenails should be kept shorter than the ends of the toes.
Toenails should be trimmed every six to eight weeks, but active individuals may need to trim more often.
Soak your nails in warm water for 10-30 minutes to soften them, then use nail nippers to make small, straight cuts across the nail. Avoid rounding the corners to prevent ingrown toenails.
Antifungal treatments include drugs, creams, sprays, gels, and pills. Laser treatment is also an option. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise on the best treatment for you.
Keep your feet clean and dry. Use separate, clean nail clippers for your hands and feet, and do not share nail tools with others. Treat athlete's foot promptly to prevent it from spreading to your nails.
