If your toenails have become very thick, the best way to fix them is to visit a medical professional for evaluation and treatment. Depending on the cause of the thickening nails, treatment options may include:
• Trimming and filing of the nails – This is the most common treatment and involves using specialized tools to carefully remove the thickened nails.
• Oral or topical medications – Antifungal or steroidal medications may be necessary to treat any underlying infection or inflammation.
• Laser therapy – Laser treatment can sometimes be used to reduce the thickness of the nails, but this requires further evaluation and specialist supervision.
• Surgery – In severe cases, the nail may need to be surgically removed.
It is important to determine the cause of thickening nails before deciding on a course of treatment. In some cases, minor lifestyle changes may be enough to stop the condition from worsening. Factors that can increase the risk of nail thickening include poor foot hygiene, wearing ill-fitting or tight shoes, or a fungal infection.
Taking preventive measures and avoiding any activities that place stress on the nails is a good place to start. Regular trimming and moisturizing of the feet can also help to keep the nails healthy.
What causes extremely thick toenails?
Thick toenails, also known as onychogryphosis, are caused by a variety of factors. Common causes of thick toenails include a fungal infection, physical trauma to the nail, aging, certain medical conditions, and improper foot care.
Fungal infection: A fungal infection is the most common cause of extremely thick toenails. Fungal infections cause the nail to thicken and a discoloration, usually yellow or brown, to occur. Fungal nails often have a brittle, crumbly texture, as well.
Fungal nail infections can be treated with an antifungal topical medication or orally taken pills.
Physical trauma: Physical trauma to the toenails can cause them to thicken and become disfigured. Pricking or stubbing the toes, dropping something heavy on them, or even squeezing them too hard can all cause thickening of the nails.
Aging: As we age, the nails naturally become thicker and more yellow. This is often due to a decrease in the body’s production of keratin, the protein that makes up nails. The decrease in keratin production leads to thicker and less pliable nails.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions can also cause thickened toenails. Diabetes and circulatory diseases are two common medical conditions that can lead to thickened toenails. Diabetics often suffer from poor circulation, which can lead to a buildup of cells around the toenail, making it thicker.
Improper foot care: Not taking proper care of your feet can also lead to thicker toenails. If you routinely let your toenails grow too long without regularly trimming them and filing down the edges, this can cause nails to thicken.
Additionally, people who wear tight-fitting or ill-fitting shoes may be more prone to thickened toenails.
If you are experiencing thickened toenails due to any of the above-mentioned causes, it is important that you consult with a podiatrist. A podiatrist will be able to diagnose the cause of your thick nails and recommend the appropriate treatment.
What are thick toenails a symptom of?
Thick toenails can be a symptom of several medical conditions, such as fungal infections, psoriasis, lichen planus, and other inflammatory conditions involving the toenail. These medical conditions can cause the toenail to become thick, yellow, and brittle, or thick and white.
Fungal infections, such as toenail fungus and athletes foot, are the most common causes of thick toenails. In addition, certain types of skin trauma, such as smacking your toe, can cause the nail to become thickened.
In some cases, thick toenails can be caused by a vitamin deficiency, such as hypothyroidism, or by a circulatory or nerve problem that causes an increase in the thickness of the nail. Finally, some medications, such as psoriasis treatments, can lead to thickening of the toenails.
It is important to talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, as proper diagnosis and treatment is critical to reducing thick toenails.
Can thickened toenails be reversed?
Thickened toenails can sometimes be reversed, depending on the underlying cause. Possible causes for thickened toenails include fungal infections, trauma, psoriasis, circulatory issues, and other medical conditions.
Treatment for thickened toenails, and the degree of reversibility, depends on the underlying condition.
Fungal infections, also known as onychomycosis, are the most common cause of thickened toenails and can often be reversed with medications prescribed by a doctor. Oral and topical antifungal medications are most often the treatments of choice.
Additionally, medications aimed at improving immune function and circulation may be prescribed if bacterial infection is present. In some cases, the nail may have to be removed to adequately treat the infection.
Trauma, such as dropping something heavy on the toe or repetitively hitting the toe, can also cause thickened nails and is usually reversible with time. However, if infection is also present, an antifungal medication may be needed to treat the underlying cause.
Psoriasis can also cause thickened toenails, and although it is not necessarily reversible, it can be treated with medications prescribed by a doctor. Creams, ointments, and injections may be used to reduce the inflammation, which can help reduce the thickness of the nail.
Circulatory issues may also cause thickened nails and are often reversible. Treatments such as compression stockings and increasing physical activity can help improve circulation and reduce the thickness of the nail.
Other medical conditions such as diabetes, eczema, or lichen planus can also cause thickened toenails, and treating the underlying cause may help reduce the thickness of the nail.
In conclusion, thickened toenails can sometimes be reversed and the degree of reversibility depends on the underlying cause. Treating the underlying cause with a combination of medications and lifestyle changes can help reduce the thickness of the nail, either completely or partially.
Do thick toenails ever go away?
Thick toenails may eventually go away, depending on the underlying cause. Common causes of thick toenails include fungal infections, repetitive trauma, psoriasis, diabetes, trauma, and age-related changes.
In some cases, it may take a long time for thick toenails to improve or go away, particularly if there is an underlying medical condition present. In mild cases, however, such as due to trauma or mild fungal infection, treatment is usually successful and the thick toenail will go away in time.
Treatment for thick toenails may include topical or oral antifungal medication, lifestyle changes (such as wearing more breathable shoes), or laser therapy. It is best to speak with a doctor first in order to determine the proper treatment option, as some methods may not be suitable or effective depending on the underlying cause.
It is important to follow the proper treatment protocol regularly, as this will help your toenails to eventually go away.
Is there a home remedy for thick toenails?
Yes, there are some home remedies that may be useful for treating thick toenails.
The first step is to keep the toenails clean and dry. Soaking the toes in warm water and Epsom salts can help soften the skin and nails. This can make it easier to trim the nails and reduce their thickness.
Wearing moisture-wicking socks and open-toed shoes can also help keep the feet dry and allow air to circulate.
It may also be helpful to apply a topical antifungal cream. This can help fight off any infections that might be causing the thickening of the toenails.
Eating a healthy diet can also benefit the nails. Eating foods with high levels of Vitamin A, such as sweet potatoes and carrots, can also help promote healthy nail growth.
If home remedies are not effective, then a visit to a medical professional should be considered. They can help diagnose the cause of the thickening and offer treatments such as nail surgery or a prescription antifungal cream.
How does a podiatrist treat thick toenails?
A podiatrist may treat thick toenails in a variety of ways, including:
1. Debridement – The podiatrist may use a scalpel to lightly remove pieces of the thickened nail. This will help reduce the thickness and make it easier to treat.
2. Nail Cutting – The podiatrist may use specialized clippers or scissors to reduce the thickness of the nail and make it easier to trim.
3. Topical Medications – The podiatrist may also recommend topical medications, such as antifungals, to help reduce the thickness of the nail and reduce any underlying infection.
4. Oral Medications – In some cases, the podiatrist may also recommend oral medications to address any underlying medical conditions.
5. Laser Treatment – Laser treatment may also be recommended for treating thick toenails. This can help to permanently reduce the thickness of the nail and prevents the nail from becoming thick again in the future.
Ultimately, the ideal treatment plan for thick toenails will depend on the individual patient. A podiatrist will evaluate the patient’s current condition and recommend the best treatment option to restore the health of the toenail.
How can I make my thick toenails thinner?
Thick toenails can be caused by a number of things, such as trauma, aging, or fungal infections. This can make current or new toenails look yellow, brown, or discolored. To help make your toenails thinner and healthier, it’s important to determine what is causing the thickeness before seeking treatment.
If you think your thickened toenails may be caused by an infection, it’s best to visit your doctor or specialist as they can provide you with proper diagnosis and treatment. If an infection is found, you may be prescribed with antifungal medication or ointment to help with the thickening.
If you don’t think your thick toenails are caused by an infection, there are a few things you can do to help make your nails thinner. Firstly, you can use an emery board to gently file down the thicker areas of your toenails.
Make sure to be extra gentle and do not tear the toenails. Additionally, you can invest in a foot file such as a pedicure rasp to help thin and smooth down thicker areas of your toenails as well.
Furthermore, you can also use nail strengthening serums and creams to help condition and soften your nails. If possible, you may need to try a few different products before finding the one most beneficial for you.
Additionally, try to avoid getting pedicures or putting excess pressure on your toenails as this can further immobilize the condition.
Overall, thinning your thick toenails may take a little time and patience, but if done correctly, it can help with achieving healthier, more regular looking toenails.
What does Vicks VapoRub do for toenails?
Vicks VapoRub is an ointment used to treat a variety of conditions including muscle aches, coughs, congestion, and colds. It is also known to have various uses other than being a topical cold remedy.
One of its lesser-known uses is to help with toenail fungus, as the active ingredients in Vicks VapoRub can help to fight the infection causing fungus. The strong menthol and camphor scent of Vicks VapoRub tends to mask the odor of the toenail fungus and can even help with the inflammation that often accompanies the infection.
Additionally, the ointment helps to restore moisture to the affected area which can alleviate any discomfort associated with the condition. It is important to note that Vicks VapoRub should not be applied directly to the affected toenails as this can cause skin irritation.
Instead, it is best to first apply it to a cotton ball and then clean the affected area with the cotton ball. Additionally, it should be left on for at least 10 minutes before washing it away in order to ensure that the active ingredients have enough time to work.
If the condition persists, it is recommended to see a doctor for further advice or treatment.
What vitamin deficiency causes thick toenails?
Vitamin deficiencies can lead to several health problems and one of them is thick toenails. Thicker than normal toenails can be caused by a variety of factors, including a deficiency of certain vitamins.
Deficiencies of vitamins A, C, and B12 are most commonly associated with increased nail thickness.
Vitamin A deficiency causes the nails to become curved and ridged, as well as thick and brittle. This can also lead to dryness and loss of mobility in the joints, as well as bone softening. The main symptom of vitamin C deficiency is the formation of spongy and bleeding gums, but it can also cause thick nails.
B12 deficiency, or pernicious anemia, can also cause thickened toenails. It has been linked to anemia, where red blood cells are unable to transport enough oxygen to the extremities, resulting in swollen toes, discolored nails and thickening of the toenails.
If you experience any of the symptoms associated with these deficiencies, it is important to consult with your doctor for a diagnosis. They may recommend vitamin supplements or dietary changes to correct the deficiency and help you regain healthy nails.
What is the white hard stuff under my toenails?
The white hard stuff under your toenails is most likely a fungal infection called onychomycosis. It’s caused by a fungus that likes warm and moist areas and commonly affects the toenails. It can cause one or more of your toenails to become thick, discolored, and brittle.
The white material is a combination of a fungal organism and the nail protein, which collects in the nail as the fungus grows underneath. It can sometimes be accompanied by an odor, itchiness, and/or redness.
To treat the infection, you should see a doctor who can prescribe antifungal medications. You can also help stop the fungus from spreading by keeping your feet dry and avoiding those warm and moist areas.
Additionally, you should wear shoes or sandals with plenty of room to keep the air flowing and prevent moisture from accumulating around the nails. Additionally, it’s important to keep your nails trimmed to reduce the chance of the fungus spreading to other nails.
