The thickening of toenails as people age is a common occurrence. Thickening of the toenails can occur due to several reasons.
Aging can cause a weakening of the nail plate that can lead to an increased risk of trauma. As an individual’s nails age, the layers become drier, more brittle, and prone to separation. In addition, toenails begin to thicken and become more curved as they age due to changes in the nail bed.
Layers of the toenail also build up over time, making it more prone to being thick. Toenail thickening can also be caused by a fungal infection. Fungal infections make the toenails brittle, yellow in color, and cause them to become thicker and discolored.
Moreover, other medical conditions such as cirrhosis, kidney failure, psoriasis, and thyroid disease may also contribute to the thickening of toenails with age.
Finally, trauma or improper pedicure techniques such as tearing, cutting too close to the cuticle, or cutting the cuticle can damage the nail matrix and cause thickening of the toenails.
In conclusion, toenail thickening in elderly populations is often due to aging, trauma, improper pedicure techniques, and medical conditions. Therefore, it is important to consult a medical professional to identify the underlying cause and to obtain the appropriate treatment to prevent the toenails from further damages and thickening.
Can toenail thickening be reversed?
It is possible to reverse toenail thickening if the underlying cause is addressed and treated. The most common cause of toenail thickening is a fungal infection, which can usually be treated with a topical medication that is applied to the affected toenails.
If the infection is caused by a particular medical condition, such as psoriasis or an autoimmune disorder, then medication taken to treat the condition can help reduce the associated toenail thickening.
In some cases, certain lifestyle changes such as keeping the feet dry, wearing properly fitting shoes, and avoiding contact with chemical irritants can also help reverse toenail thickening. Surgery may be recommended for extreme cases.
However, it is important to note that it can take several months for toenails to strengthen and return to their original texture and thickness.
What is the treatment for thickened toenails?
The treatment for thickened toenails typically depends on the cause of the nail issue.
If the condition is due to a fungal infection, antifungal medications may be prescribed. Over-the-counter topical solutions and prescription oral medications can be used to fight the infection, and the nail should gradually return to a more normal texture.
If the nail thickening is caused by the buildup of keratin protein, the treatment may be more complex. A doctor can trim away parts of the nail and file down the remaining area to make it smoother. A special cushioned insert may be placed in the shoe to reduce irritation.
Treatment for thickened toenails due to aging, injury or trauma typically involves a process called debridement. In this procedure, the corners and sides of the nail are removed, leaving a reduced-thickness nail plate.
In some cases, the nail may be completely removed, and a thin layer of tissue beneath the nail may need to be.
removed to reveal healthy, uninfected tissue.
In some cases, the underlying tissue of the nail bed can be significantly scarred or damaged and will cause the nail to thicken permanently. In this case, the appearance of the nail can be improved by having a podiatrist place a podiatric composite on the nail to make it look more natural.
Even if the toenail is permanently changed, regular trimming and filing of the nail can reduce discomfort.
It is important to determine the cause of nail thickening before beginning treatment. A doctor will have to examine the condition and take a sample for testing to produce an accurate diagnosis. Once determined, treatment can begin and the discomfort of thickened toenails can be addressed.
What does Vicks VapoRub do for toenails?
Vicks VapoRub can be used to treat toenails by rubbing it onto the toenails for several minutes each day. It contains menthol, camphor, eucalyptus oil, and nutmeg oil, which can work to nourish and protect the nails, as well as to reduce inflammation.
Additionally, its active ingredients can fight bacterial and fungal growth, making it an effective treatment for toe nail fungus. Vicks VapoRub can also be used to help relieve pain associated with other foot problems such as athlete’s foot, corns, blisters, and bunions.
To maximize the effectiveness of the product, it should be massaged gently into the affected toe each day, paying particular attention to rubbing it around and under the affected nail. Wearing socks and shoes afterwards helps to keep the treatment on the nails, as well as spread it evenly.
How long does it take for Vicks to work on nail fungus?
It typically takes several weeks, or even months, for Vicks VapoRub to work on nail fungus. The ointment should be applied directly to the affected nail and the nail bed twice daily. As the nail fungus begins to clear, the nail will begin to appear lighter in color and will grow more slowly.
To help combat the fungus and ensure long-term success, it’s important to take care of the nails properly and to use an antifungal agent or topical cream, along with the Vicks. Additionally, keep the nails dry, wear protective shoes or socks, and practice good hygiene.
If, after several weeks, the nail fungus has not improved, consult a podiatrist or other healthcare provider as soon as possible.
How does a podiatrist treat thick toenails?
A podiatrist treats thick toenails by first determining the cause of the thickening. Commonly, thick toenails are caused by a fungal infection known as onychomycosis. If this is the case, the podiatrist may provide treatment with topical or oral antifungal medications to eliminate the infection, or they may recommend a laser treatment.
The podiatrist may also recommend lifestyle changes for thick toenails, such as wearing appropriate footgear so the underlying cause does not worsen. They also may suggest toenail trimming, which can often be done at home.
If the thickening is caused by an injury, the podiatrist may suggest that the patient wear appropriate footwear to protect the toe and to reduce any potential further damage.
In some cases, the podiatrist may recommend having the thickened toenail surgically removed. This is typically done if the thickening is caused by an underlying condition that cannot be adequately controlled with lifestyle changes or medications.
The podiatrist will provide pain relief for the procedure and recommend further follow-up treatments if necessary.
Why are my toenails so thick and hard?
The most common is a fungal infection, which causes the nails to become thicker, yellowish in color, and more brittle. This type of infection is often caused by wearing tight-fitting socks and shoes, walking barefoot in public places, or having a foot injury.
Poor hygiene or a weakened immune system can also contribute to a fungal infection.
Another potential cause of thick and/or hard toenails is psoriasis, which can cause the nail beds to become inflamed, resulting in thickening and hardening of the nails. An injury to the nail or repeated trauma to the toe, such as when wearing shoes that are too tight, can also cause the nail to thicken and harden.
Age can also be a factor, as the nail plates can thicken and become more ridged as a person gets older.
In rare cases, thick and hard toenails can be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition, such as thyroid disease, diabetes, kidney failure, or an immune system disorder. If you are concerned about your toenails, it is best to consult a medical professional for an assessment and possible diagnosis.
Can you have thick toenails without fungus?
Yes, it is possible to have thick toenails without fungus. Thickening of the nails can be caused by a variety of conditions, including changes in hormone, trauma, or a nail injury. Sometimes, it is simply a sign of aging.
If a person’s toenails become thick but they have not been diagnosed with a fungus, they should consult their doctor to identify potential underlying causes. Depending on the cause, they may be recommended topical treatments, lifestyle changes, or more specialized care.
What is the nail grinder for humans?
A nail grinder for humans is a type of rotary tool that is designed to trim and shape fingernails and toenails. The nail grinder operates by applying a rotary grinding action to the nail in order to grind it down and shape it.
This process is often preferred to traditional nail clipping because it is much less invasive and is reported to reduce the risk of taking off too much nail in one go or cutting the quick (the inner part of the nail that contains nerve endings and blood vessels).
They are also gentle enough to use on small children, pets and those with weak or brittle nails. Nail grinders come in various sizes, shapes and power levels and can have various head attachments. Generally, it is advised that professional nail technicians use a grinder with at least 10,000 RPMs for the best trim and shaping results.
How do you cut toenails if you can’t reach them?
If you cannot reach or see your toenails, you can use a few tools to help you cut them. First, you will need a sturdy pair of toenail clippers. If you are unable to pick up the clippers, you can ask a friend or family member to help you.
Make sure the clippers have a wide, curved blade that fits comfortably over the toenail. To remove extra length, use a file. Then, you can use the clippers to trim the edge of the toenail. Start cutting from one corner and move along the contour of the nail.
Make sure to make short, smooth cuts to avoid injury. If you have difficulty maneuvering the clippers, use a soft brush to brush away the cuticles. Once you are done, smooth the edges out with a nail file.
Additionally, you might want to apply lotion to the nails to keep them soft and flexible. Finally, do not cut toenails too short, as this can lead to ingrown toenails, infection, and even pain.
Should you cut your toenails wet or dry?
It is generally recommended to cut your toenails when they are dry, as cutting toenails when they are wet can result in a jagged edge, which can potentially damage the nail and lead to an ingrown toenail.
Additionally, cutting toenails wet may make them harder to cut because they are more brittle while wet. Toenails can become brittle and prone to splitting or cracking if they are cut when wet, which can cause pain and discomfort when walking.
When it comes to cutting toenails, it is important to use the proper tools. Toenail clippers are specially designed to cut nails and can prevent nail damage that could occur when using scissors or another sharp object.
Toenail clippers come in both regular and curved sizes and provide the best results. It is also a good idea to use a nail file to smooth the edges and help shape the nail.
Overall, it is best to cut toenails when they are dry in order to have a smooth, even edge and prevent damage to the nail. Additionally, ensuring that the proper tools are used can help to further prevent any problems, such as splits or ingrown nails.
Is hydrogen peroxide good for toenail fungus?
The use of hydrogen peroxide as a treatment for toenail fungus is a much-debated topic among medical professionals and home remedy enthusiasts. On one hand, hydrogen peroxide does possess antifungal and antimicrobial properties.
On the other, there is limited scientific evidence to support its efficacy for treating toenail fungus.
Some proponents of hydrogen peroxide suggest soaking the affected toenail in a solution of water and peroxide each day for 30 minutes to potentially curb the growth of fungus. However, this is not a recommended protocol of treatment and should be approached with caution.
At this time, the best treatment option for toenail fungus is to consult with a podiatrist to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Generally, a topical antifungal medication and/or an oral antifungal medication will be prescribed to help fight off the infection.
Topical solutions may take 6 to 12 weeks before results are seen, and oral medications may take 8 to 12 weeks to fully take effect.
In conclusion, it is likely not the best idea to use hydrogen peroxide to treat toenail fungus, as there is still limited evidence to support its effectiveness. You should always consult with a healthcare professional to ensure you are receiving the best treatment for your condition.
Do foot doctors cut toenails?
Yes, foot doctors, or podiatrists, do cut toenails. Cutting toenails is just one of the many services a podiatrist provides. Some of the other services include evaluating the patient’s gait, prescribing orthotics, diagnosing diseases related to the foot and ankle, prescribing medications to treat foot and ankle conditions, removing calluses, and performing surgery related to the foot and ankle.
Cutting toenails is a fairly simple task, but it is important to have them cut properly. Improperly cut toenails can cause the nail to become ingrown, which can be a painful problem. Therefore, it is best to have a foot doctor cut your toenails in order to keep them healthy.
How often do toenails need cutting?
It is generally recommended to cut toenails once every two weeks. This ensures that they remain at a comfortable length, where they can remain free from ingrown toenails and from excessive rub against the sides of shoes.
Since toenails naturally grow more slowly than fingernails, frequent trimming is not necessary. However, if your toenails grow faster than the average person’s, it may be beneficial to cut them more frequently.
Additional cases may warrant more frequent trimming; diabetics may need to adjust to their own needs. In all cases, however, it is important not to cut too far back on the sides of the nail, as this can lead to ingrown toenails.
It is also important to use nail clippers specifically designed for toenails, as they are sharper and thicker than those intended for fingernails.
Is there a difference between fingernail clippers and toenail clippers?
Yes, there is a difference between fingernail clippers and toenail clippers. Fingernail clippers are designed for use on the fingers, and typically have curved and pointed edges to give you more control and accuracy when clipping.
They usually come with a straight edge to be used for trimming away the excess. Toenail clippers, on the other hand, are usually much bigger than fingernail clippers and have a less pointed and curved edge to help with trimming the thicker toenails.
Toenail clippers also often come with a file or ridged side to help with shaping and smoothing out the edges. While you may be able to use a fingernail clipper on your toenails, it is not recommended due to the added thickness and difficulty in maneuvering the clipper.
Why do toe nails get thick with age?
As we age, our body’s natural processes slow down and its production of certain hormones and proteins decreases. This can cause the toe nails to become thicker and more prone to fungal infection. These include diabetes, circulation problems, psoriasis, and thyroid disease.
Additionally, aging can weaken the toe nails, leading to less flexibility, which can make them more difficult to trim. If a person has a history of poor nail hygiene, this can make the problem worse, as fungi, bacteria, and other contaminants can enter the nail more easily and cause further damage.
Furthermore, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes can also increase the risk of nail fungus, as the footwear can trap moisture and promote a warm and humid environment for bacteria to grow. Taking proper care of your nails and regularly trimming them can help prevent thick toenails and fungal infections.
What do thick toenails indicate?
Thick toenails can indicate a variety of different conditions or medical issues. They can be caused by fungal infections, psoriasis, eczema, trauma, or chronic inflammatory diseases such as diabetes, psoriasis, and arthritis.
In some cases, they can indicate a vitamin deficiency or an autoimmune disorder. Thick toenails can also be caused by wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that put pressure on the toes and cause the nails to thicken, or by using nail polish frequently.
If you have thick toenails, it is important to have them checked by a doctor to determine the cause and receive proper treatment. Depending on the cause, treatment may include prescription medications, topical ointments, home remedies, or laser treatments.
In some cases, the thick toenails may need to be removed if medical treatment is not effective.
What is the white hard stuff under my toenails?
The white hard stuff under your toenails is likely to be a fungal infection known as Onychomycosis. This is a common problem caused by a fungus called dermatophytes which thrive in warm, moist areas such as the space between the toenails and the skin.
The fungus is usually spread through contact with other infected people or with contaminated surfaces such as swimming pool decks or showers. Symptoms can include thickened and yellowish toenails, discomfort while walking and/or noticeable white, flaky material building up under the nails.
If left untreated, the fungus can spread, causing further discoloration, nail fragility and eventually even nail deformity.
In order to treat the fungal infection, it is important to seek the advice of a doctor. Treatment may involve using antifungal lotions or tablets, clipping or filing away the infected nails, and/or a course of oral antifungal medication.
Good hygiene practices such as frequent washing of the feet and keeping them dry and avoiding damp public areas, are also key to preventing the fungus from spreading and recurring.