At some point in life, many people develop a fungal infection — especially during summer. The medical name for a nail fungal infection is onychomycosis.
Although it’s typically not dangerous, it can be unpleasant and hard to treat. The infection develops slowly and causes nails to become discolored, thickened, and deformed.
If you want to eliminate the fungus, it’s important to follow some basic hygiene practices:
- Keep your hands and feet clean and dry
- Wear shoes made of natural materials that fit well
- Use clean, breathable cotton socks
- Trim your nails with personal nail clippers
- Do not share towels or socks with others
- Wash towels regularly
- Avoid walking barefoot in public pools, showers, and locker rooms — wear protective footwear
- Replace old shoes, as they might carry the infection
If you already have a fungal infection, several highly effective home remedies can help clear it up within one or two months.
You only need to soak your feet in one of the following four treatments:
1. Baking Soda Solution
Baking soda is a common household product that can help treat nail fungus. It also helps neutralize foot odor.
How to prepare:
- Mix 4 cups of hot water with:
- ½ cup baking soda
- ¼ cup 3% hydrogen peroxide
- 1 cup salt
- Then add ¼ cup white vinegar
Soak the infected nails for 10 minutes. Rinse with clean water and dry feet thoroughly. Repeat this process twice daily for several weeks.
2. Yogurt
Yogurt is effective for infections between the toes and around nails. It contains live bacteria called acidophilus, which help destroy fungal organisms.
You can soak your feet in plain yogurt or apply it directly to the affected area and let it dry. Rinse with cold water afterward.
3. Hydrogen Peroxide Soak
A mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water can kill harmful fungi and prevent them from spreading. It’s an excellent disinfectant for fungal and bacterial infections.
How to prepare:
Mix 100 ml of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1 liter of distilled water. Soak your feet for 20 minutes. Repeat every morning.
4. Cornstarch Paste
Cornstarch is a key ingredient in many antifungal powders and creams due to its strong moisture-absorbing properties.
How to prepare:
- Mix ½ teaspoon of cornstarch with a little warm water. Heat it in an oven at 220°C until it turns slightly brown.
- Wash and dry your feet. Rub the mixture on the affected area and leave it for 5–10 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
If you experience severe pain or have serious medical conditions, it’s strongly recommended to consult a doctor. Self-treatment may not be appropriate for everyone and can sometimes delay proper medical care.
When You Need to Visit a Doctor
While home remedies can be helpful in mild cases, there are situations when professional medical care is necessary. You should see a doctor if:
- The fungal infection does not improve after several weeks of home treatment
- The infection spreads to other nails or skin
- Your nail becomes painful, swollen, or develops pus
- The nail is lifting away from the nail bed or becomes completely discolored
- You have diabetes or a weakened immune system
- You are experiencing repeated infections that return after treatment
- You notice bleeding, cracking, or a bad odor
In such cases, a doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications, medicated creams, or suggest further tests to rule out other underlying conditions.
Getting early medical advice can prevent complications and help you recover faster and more effectively.
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Please note: The articles on our website are for informational purposes only and do not replace professional medical advice. If you have serious health concerns, please consult a qualified specialist.
