Are Fungal Nails Painful And How Do You Get Rid Of Them?

Fungal nails can be a major problem.  Fungal nails are not always serious or visible, because the symptoms develop gradually. Still, most people prefer to have them treated as soon as possible. When are fungal nails painful? In this article we answer that, and we give you tips to get rid of it.

In the beginning, a fungal nail changes color and structure. As the infection progresses, the nail becomes weaker and weaker, often eventually falling off completely.

Are fungal nails painful? People with this condition often wonder because it usually doesn’t hurt at first. However, if you don’t get the infection treated, it will keep getting worse. The area around the affected nail becomes more and more sensitive, causing you to experience pain and other symptoms.

Read on to discover the main causes of nail fungus and some natural remedies that can help you fight them effectively.

What causes fungal nails?

The medical term for fungal nails is onychomycosis. It is an infection caused by  dermatophytes and yeasts, when they multiply excessively on the nails of the hands or feet.

These micro-organisms grow fastest in moist and warm environments, such as in shoes.

Fungi can also indicate a weakened immune system. The immune system is then not strong enough to stop the development of fungi.

The risk factors

The following factors can cause you to develop fungal nails. The infection can develop when you:

• comes into contact with humid and warm environments in public areas, such as the swimming pool, gym or showers.
• does not dry your feet properly after showering.
• wear shoes or socks made of materials that do not allow the feet to breathe properly.
• suffer from excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).
• have diabetes mellitus.
• have nail abnormalities.

Are fungal nails painful?

Many people do not have a good idea of ​​the symptoms of onychomycosis. In the beginning you only see a change in the nail, and fungal nails are not yet painful. That is why most people often doubt whether it is an infection.

It is important to know that fungi do not always cause pain. It gradually gets worse, and only when the infection has become severe does the pain begin.

Some symptoms of fungal nails

• Color change of the nail.
• Deformation of the nail, or thickening nails.
• The nail breaks or falls off completely.
• Pain or itching of the skin around the nail.

Home remedies for fungal nails

If the fungal nails are painful and the infection is serious, it is best to see a doctor right away. If the infection is still in its early stages, you can try to reduce the infection with the following home remedies.

Essential tea tree oil

Tea tree oil has a powerful antibacterial and antifungal effect. It is one of the best remedies that can inhibit the growth of fungi that affect the nails.

How do you use it?

• Put some oil on a cotton pad and rub it over the affected nail.
• Use the tea tree oil  twice a day until your nail has fully recovered.

Lemon juice

Lemon juice contains organic acids and essential oils. This allows lemon juice to modify the environment that microorganisms need to reproduce.

How do you use it?

• Rub half a lemon over the affected nail.
• Then let the juice soak for at least 30 minutes.
• Rinse your nail.
• Repeat the treatment up to three times a day.

Onion

Onions contain a lot of sulfur, which has an antifungal effect. It inhibits the multiplication of fungi and repairs the infected nail.

How do you use it?

• Cut off a piece of an onion and place it on your nail. Use a bandage to hold the onion in place.
• Let it sit overnight.
• Repeat the treatment for at least two weeks.

Essential Oregano Oil

Oregano essential oil is known for protecting the respiratory tract, but it is also suitable for combating fungal infections.

How do you use it?

• Put a little oregano essential oil on the affected nail.
• Then let it act without rinsing it off.
• Use it twice a day for best results.

apple cider vinegar

Finally, the next last tip. Apple cider vinegar contains organic acids that kill mold. If you apply the apple cider vinegar directly to the infected area, it will modify the environment in which the fungi grow. This slows down the infection.

How do you use it?

• Pour some apple cider vinegar over the infected nails.

• You can also pour the apple cider vinegar into a bowl of warm water. Then dip your hands or feet in it for 20 minutes.
• Continue the treatment until your nail is completely healed.

Do you think you have fungal nails? See if you’re experiencing any symptoms, and get your nails treated as soon as possible before it’s too late!