Black toenail fungus is an unsightly and not uncommon problem for many people and there may be a couple of different culprits causing the condition. But fortunately, there are also a few viable remedies and treatment options to consider in your quest to eradicate the ultimate cause of black discoloration of the toenails. Let's review the causes, symptoms and treatment options that can help you to address this problem.
Common Causes of Black Toenails
Black toe nail fungus, the most common reason for having dark toenails, may be caused by a variety of underlying factors, some of which you may not even be aware of. The most common causes for black toe nails are dermatophytes, which are microscopic organisms that grow under the nail bed and thrive in warm, damp conditions.
Excessive sweating and keeping the feet confined in shoes for long periods of time may lead to bouts of toenail fungus. Runners and joggers may get a black toenail from wearing new shoes or running and sweating in shoes without socks.
A black toe nail may also be the result of a trauma or injury to the toe or foot that has caused bruising or blood to form and collect under the nail bed. Even cutting your nails too short can put you at risk for developing fungus as cuts may lead to infection.
The Telltale Symptoms of Black Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus typically causes the nails to become discolored, most usually yellowish, brown, green, and black. Black fungus toenail also typically causes symptoms such as brittleness, crumbling or cracking as well as a thickening of the affected nails. Along with the blackened spots or patches, nail fungus may cause nails to look dull and lackluster in appearance.
You may also experience pain and or discomfort of varying degrees while walking or wearing shoes if you have one or more black toenails especially if they have become separated from the nail beds. You may even notice an unpleasant or foul odor coming from underneath a black toenail.
Black Toenail Treatment Options
Although there are prescription drugs to take, they are not recommended for treating a black toe nail and the fungus that causes the condition due to the incredibly negative side effects that are associated with the medication, among them, kidney and liver damage. Also, in addition to dealing with serious, harmful side effects, prescription medications offer limited success rates when it comes to treating and eradicating black nail fungus.
All natural treatments available over-the-counter along with a combination of home remedies for black toenail fungus are being sought after to avoid frightening side effects and questionable results. Some people swear by soaking their feet in beer or vinegar because of their antifungal properties although these anecdotal reports have no scientific studies or data to back up their claims. And naturally a black toenail cure won't happen overnight but obviously the sooner you try some type of treatment the better your chances are of finding a cure.
Prevention is rather important when it comes to nail fungus and dealing with reoccurring bouts of the relatively harmless but irritating condition. Always avoid walking barefoot in public areas, particularly damp, wet places such as swimming pools, saunas, shower rooms, and gyms. Also, wearing socks that allow the feet to "breathe" and promote ventilation when exercising or anytime your feet will be confined to shoes may also help to keep black toenail fungus at bay.
Last but not least, learning as much as possible about your treatment options will save you time and allow you to make the best decision when it comes to treating and ultimately curing your black toenail fungus.
Heather Stewart is the founder of Toenail Fungus Treatment Review, an independent organization devoted to empower consumers with the most accurate information on toenail fungus treatments.
To weigh the pros and cons of each treatment and find the most suitable way to cure your black toenail fungus, read her review at http://www.toenailfungustreatmentreview.com
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