In some cases, trauma to the nail is permanent and the nail may require removal under local analgesia. Foods rich in zinc like pumpkin, kidney beans, flax seeds, soy milk, nuts, etc. 2. Try protecting toes with Profoot's Toe Protector as it surrounds, cushions and thus protects sore toes from external pressure. That's because the warm and moist environment is ideal for fungus to grow and spread. iron deficiency anaemia. 1. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. If you have dystrophic nails, your nails might look thick, oddly shaped or colored yellow or brown. Repeated trauma, like running, might not hurt at all. As this irritation becomes more severe you can wind up with thick toenails that are uncomfortable and difficult to maintain. Derby R, et al. Repeat three times a week. Surprising Ways to Use Goat Milk Soap for Your Skin, Suffering from Intertrigo? Sometimes the whole nail lifts off. Novel treatment of onychomycosis using over-the-counter mentholated ointment: A clinical case series. Soyeon Lim S, et al. Other causes of thick toenails include aging and underlying conditions like psoriasis and diabetes. Your toenails may sometimes become thick and difficult to trim. Is it healthy? Causes and risk factors There are various reasons why. Or soak them a few minutes in lukewarm water first. Take your time and cut straight across the nail to avoid developing a crack or ingrown toenails later. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. If you have a preexisting condition and develop fungus, its very important to treat it as soon as possible. People with diabetes and circulation problems may have an increased risk of rams horn nails. Black toenails are attributed to a variety of causes, some of which resolve on their own. This medication is often prescribed in addition to other medications to manage your condition. The fungi invade the area between the nail and the nail bed and the toenail turns yellow and brown. The infection often spreads to the middle of the nail, making the nail discoloured and sometimes thicker in parts. A toenail fungal infection, or onychomycosis, is one of the most common causes of thick toenails. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Untreated toenail infections can cause some complications. How can thickened toenails be treated? Then pour Epsom salts directly on the affected area (they will also mix into the water). Nail psoriasis often causes pain and impacts daily activities, and patients have aesthetic concerns, says Shari Lipner, MD, associate professor of clinical dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City. In this case, the thickening of the toenails is often temporary and will return to normal when the damage is healed. Cut your toenails right away. You don't think you can trim your toenails safely on your own. Diovan is used to manage high blood pressure. Capsulitis is a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot and toes. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. 1. Thick toenails are easier to split and irritate if pressure is put on them incorrectly. Garlic is incredibly beneficial for the cure the inflammation and pain of the thick brown toenails. You may be surprised at how quickly tea tree oil for thick toenails works. Chances are, you noticed the change when attempting (and possibly struggling) to clip them. They may actually get thinner or remain the same, Dr. Sodha says. We avoid using tertiary references. Call your doctor to treat it. Here are 10 home remedies for toenail fungus to try, many of which, Try these seven methods for removing plantar warts before visiting a doctor, and find out the difference between plantar warts and calluses. Patients may develop secondary nail infections and onychomycosis [a toenail infection], and it may be associated with painful ingrown toenails, says Dr. Sodha. Its also a good idea to keep the nails short and avoid trauma to the nails. If treated early, surgical intervention can be avoided. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Does Fiber Rich Food Help with Weight Loss? Start by soaking your feed in warm water for approximately ten minutes. Topical and oral medications are the mainstays of therapy. an underactive thyroid or overactive thyroid. In many cases injuries to the toenail can cause them to become thicker as they heal. heart, lung or liver disease. Follow these instructions for the best outcome in thinning and shortening thick nails Soak your toes in warm water for five to 10 minutes. Which is why thickened nails can come as a surprise. How to Exfoliate Your Skin with Your Towel? Additionally, there are simple ways to help lower your risk of toenail fungal infection, including wearing sandals or shoes in locker rooms, keeping your feet as dry as possible during the day, and practicing good foot hygiene. And thickening toenails might be trying to tell you something is amiss. It usually targets the big toes. The Best Essential Oils for Mental & Emotional Health During COVID-19 Quarantine. The anti-fungal and antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar aids in the inhibition of thick toenails fungus and cures the crumbly and brittle texture of the toenails. How to Care for a Broken Toenail (Plus When to See a Doctor), Fixing a Split Toenail: Home Care for Strong Nails, How to Treat a Black Toenail from Injury, Fungus, & More, How to Treat a Hangnail Infection (and Prevent New Ones). jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2600469, aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/nail-fungus-overview, frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmed.2021.637216/full. Epsom salt is one of the most effective home remedies. The topical application of the mixture helps in the alleviation of pain and enhance the healthy circulation of blood in the affected areas. In such cases the nail root matrix will need to be destroyed because damaged growth cells will continue to produce a thick new toenail. If you have thick toenails, you might feel embarrassed about showing your feet. But could it also be the cause of yellow nails? Take a softening cream and apply it on your toenails. Next, learn about whether or not YogaToes, or toe separators, can help your foot pain. It develops when blood flow is not proper in the legs which, causes a lack of oxygen in the legs. As symptoms build, your toenails may become painful. Garlic contains phytochemical compounds such as ajoene and allicin that are highly effective in the natural inhibition of thick toenails fungus. It can cure the inflammation, and its analgesic nature is highly beneficial for the alleviation of the pain and swelling of the affected area. Your doctor or podiatrist (foot specialist) should do the cutting in order to prevent injury or a bacterial infection. Apply an over-the-counter fungal treatment after you gently file your nails. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Use acidic gels to remove excessive layers. And when toenails are harder to trim, you might accidentally cut them too short or pierce the skin, leaving it vulnerable to infection or fungus. But what if your toenails are thick and come with other issues, like a yellow tint and curve of the nail, or redness and swelling of the surrounding skin? The Top 5 Supplements Every Perimenopause Woman Needs. Home Remedies That Give Instant Relief from Ear Pain, Best Exercises to Strengthen the Legs & Deal With Knee Problems, Foods That You Must Avoid When Suffering From Fibromyalgia, Home Remedies to Cure Appendicitis Without Surgery, KT Tape for Wrist: Solution to Your Wrist Pain, Science-Backed Benefits of L-Glutamine for Weight Loss, Lose Weight by Drinking This Fennel Seed Water Drink. The provider may also shorten (trim) the toenail. Toenails will appear thick, with a yellowish discoloration and tiny indentations called pits. Over time, the infection can get worse, and symptoms may become more severe. Toenails might thicken to the point that they cause discomfort when you try to wear shoes, or even make it more difficult to walk. Often patients will need injections or oral medications, says Dr. Lipner. Let your foot soak in the warm water for 10 minutes. See your doctor if: Your thickened toenail embarrasses you. Those who play sports which are hard on the feet such as soccer, or those who perform activities such as dancing in closed shoes can be at risk for these kinds of injuries. Once the surgery is complete, your doctor will give you a list of instructions related to your condition to prevent the necessity for future treatment. Try These Remedies! Thick toenails are most commonly caused by a fungal infection known as onychomycosis. The right shoes and socks can make a lot of difference when it comes to blood circulation. Stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object onto it can also contribute to a thickened toenail. It's important to treat ingrown toenails as soon as they occur to prevent infection. Cover them with socks, get some shut-eye, and wake up with softer nails. Useful Herbal Medicines You Can Grow At Home, Everything You Need to Know About Herbal Detoxes, Top 10 Antiviral Herbs To Keep You Healthy, The Beginners Guide to Combination Skin Care. Rams horns can be quite painful and should be diagnosed and treated early. Appointments 216.444.2606. Soak a small scrub brush in a bowl of 70 to 90 percent rubbing alcohol for about five minutes. Moisturize after trimming. Fill a tub with warm water and add 3-4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to soak your nails. Soak feet in vinegar. How it works: Tea tree essential is incredibly useful for the natural treatment of the fungal infection of the toenails. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. Soak your nails in warm water for 5 to 10 minutes. Here Are Some Natural Remedies to Cure It, The Best Strategies for Strong and Healthy Hair in Winter, Get Rid of Split Ends With These Incredible Ways, Must Know Hair Care Tips for People With Curly Hair. Its a well-known fact that diabetes affects the feet. Youll likely receive a prescription for an antifungal cream to use a couple of times a day for a few months. Diabetes and Yellow Nails: Is There a Connection? Possible causes of this symptom range from minor toe injuries to severe health conditions. The application of diluted tea tree essential oil improves the flow of blood in the toes and inhibit the swelling and foul odor of the nails(1) as well. Groom your nails regularly. Increase Your Upper Body Height Naturally With These Tips, All You Need to Know About the Moroccan Oil Benefits. You can also soften them the night before you clip them. You wont wake up with a gnarly rams horn overnight. "When people age, the nail can become thick coming out of the matrix, such as with onychogryphosis [nails that are thick and curving]," explains Joseph Jorizzo, MD, former and . Tip Keep your nails short. Fungal nail infections sometimes start at the edge of the nail. Soften the nails If possible, trim your nails after a shower or bath. A podiatrist will grind the nail at frequent intervals. Chronic trauma to the nails from running, sports, or poorly fitting shoes often results in thicker toenails over time, says Dr. Lipner. The toenail (and other nails) can become thick, distorted, and ridged as they grow. Prompt treatment can be key to curing. This condition happens when a fungus or yeast enters your toenail: The fungus or yeast grows under the nail bed, where its moist. Tiny, pus-filled pockets might occur under the cuticle. A podiatrist will grind the nail at frequent intervals. This should be done on a regular basis (every 2-4. 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Wrap the toenails with a sterile gauze Let the mixture seep into your skin for about 3-4 hours Do this twice or thrice a day for the natural treatment of hard thick toenails Benefits of using garlic and white vinegar Garlic is incredibly beneficial for the cure the inflammation and pain of the thick brown toenails. To achieve this, add three tablespoons of sea salt to a bowl or basin of water, then dip . This is the type of nail trimmer you will need to accomplish this task. Place the foot with the curved toenail into the bucket with warm water. Now start by using a spoon or something similar to scoop out the Vicks. Medication Make sure that your skin is not allergic to the snakeroot herb by conducting a patch test on an unaffected part of the skin surface before using the remedy. A fungus can enter under or beside the toenail or through a break in the skin. How to Delay Your Periods Naturally Without Pills? However, its always a good idea to talk with your doctor before going straight to home remedies. 22 April 2020. This is often seen in athletes, but it can also be the result of wearing improperly-fitting shoes. A professional fitting may in order, especially if you are a new runner. The term "toenail deformity" refers to a change in the shape of the toenails as a result of trauma or infection. Apply the mixture to the toenail with a cotton ball twice a day until the nail returns to normal. Apple cider vinegar is one of the most effective home remedies of whitish thick, crumbly toenails. This, removal of the toenail to treat the nail bed. Older adults and people with poor oral care are more prone to Rams horns nails. Mixing olive oil and lemon is a quick and easy way to restore your nails. You might be likely to get toenail fungus from: You might also be likely to get toenail fungus if you have a preexisting medical condition, such as: Cancer treatments may increase the likelihood of developing nail fungus. Thick toenails can be more challenging to cut than thinner fingernails. If your nail doesn't get better, you'll need to see your. Call a doctor if you notice a change in the appearance of your nails. There are multiple causes that can lead to thickened toenails. Another common at-home remedy for discolored nails is mixing one tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide, two and a half tablespoons of baking soda in a dish. Get your feet out of the tub and pat them dry using a soft towel. A 2011 study found that Vicks VapoRub had a "positive clinical effect" in the treatment of toenail fungus. 3. It will also treat the fungal infection, which can help to clear up the debris on its own. (2011). Make the Toenail Soft. Prompt treatment can be key to curing the nail fungus. You can also soak the feet in vinegar for 20-25 minutes a day to help soften them. Toenail removal may be partial or complete, and in some cases a doctor may recommend . Keep your feet as dry as possible: Change your socks a few times a day, wear cotton socks that remove moisture from your feet, rotate your shoes so they can dry out, and purchase shoes that breathe and dont constrict your feet. If changes occur, its likely due to a few things: reduced blood flow to the toes, nail care habits such as filing or buffing, trauma, or improperly fitting footwear. Thickened toenails are often just a fun part of aging, like getting skin tags, dark spots, and wrinkles. This will make the trimming and grinding easier. Soak your feet into the solution for half an hour. [Read: Apple Cider Vinegar for Toenail Fungus]. Both can help prevent fungal infections, an entirely different cause of thick toenails. Try these Allergy Remedies! Thickened toenails can be unsightly and uncomfortable. To help keep your toenails in good shape, follow the steps below to make it easier to cut thicker toenails and help prevent fungus and ingrown toenails. By using our site, you agree to our. (Related:Relieve Foot Pain With These Natural Home Remedies). Treating a fungal infection in its early stages may help prevent the condition from worsening. When you're finished, dry your feet completely, including between your toes. Vanilla Extract for Teething: A Natural Remedy for Teething Babies, Unavoidable Dental Emergencies During COVID-19, Keep Your Teeth Clean With Mustard Oil & Salt, Worried About Your Babys Teething Rash? Why You Have Fingernail Ridges and How to Deal With It, White Half-Moon Shape at the Nail Beds: Causes and Treatments. Ward off contagious toenail fungus by wearing flip-flops at the pool, public showers, and anywhere where surfaces are moist and warm. Poor circulation can also cause the toenails to thicken. Typically, youll treat toenail fungus by applying a prescription-strength antifungal polish to the toenail and taking prescription antifungal pills. Apply the mixture to the toenail with a cotton ball twice a day until the nail returns to normal. 3. Trim toenails carefully. You can try the following home remedies: Toenail fungus may require medical interventions that involve prescriptions and recommendations from your doctor. 2. Dry them off with a towel afterward. [1] 2 Trim your toenails using nail nippers. Removing the nail to treat the nail bed underneath. Oral and topical medications are available based on the nature of the infection. Disinfect clippers monthly (or after someone else used them). Toenails dont always get thicker as we age. Expert Interview. They occur as a side effect to fungal infection of the toenails that make the nails thick, hard, and brittle. Then, your healthcare provider can recommend the best treatment option for you. Use a cotton ball to push way the adjacent skin from the edges of the toenail. Curled horn nails only happen if the condition is left untreated for a significant period of time. You don't want to be smearing the rub on your toe and then putting your fingers back into the tub. Like I mentioned above, reduced blood flow to the toenails can cause thick toenails. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. Dr. Cunha is a foot and ankle surgeon with experience treating a wide array of foot and ankle conditions from minor problems to complex reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. Apply an over-the-counter anti-fungal solution or cream to your nails, such as clotrimazole or undecylenic acid. Board Certified Podiatrist. (Like the horns of a ramhence the name.) Embarrassed by Constant Burping? Dr. Cunha is a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association, the New York Podiatric Medical Association, the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, and is board certified in Podiatric Medicine. Fungus growing around the nail can cause the nail to separate from the nail bed as the fungus fills in the area. Nail fungal infections are the major cause of thick yellowing toenails. Answer (1 of 4): I am not a doctor, but very thick, yellowish toenails are likely to be due to a fungal infection. It can also leave your nails with a pale yellow tint on its own. Try natural remedies. As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Trim and file your nails (when necessary). Apply it over affected toenails and leave it to dry for 15-20 minutes. Dyana Rzentkowski/Demand Media Apply tea tree oil on your toenail, the skin around it and under the tip of the nail twice a day. Here's what to know. Topical or oral medication prescribed by your doctor, Soak toenails for 10 minutes, and then trim using nail nippers, Apply a mixture of olive oil and tea tree oil to the nail with a cotton ball twice a day, Apply Nonyx nail gel to the feet to remove excess nail growth. The nail may also lift from the nail bed. (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=211270ca-96aa-42a9-9b9e-124313270ee0&cid=877050e7-52c9-4c33-a20b-d8301a08f96d'; cnxps.cmd.push(function () { cnxps({ playerId: "211270ca-96aa-42a9-9b9e-124313270ee0" }).render("1d22893a55fb43ee89ad9fbeafd44000"); }); Toenail fungus usually requires medical attention. Similarly, it is asked,what causes toe nails to get thick? There are several steps that you can take to minimise your risk of developing thick toenails, including: Wash your feet regularly and thoroughly towel-drying them Change your socks several times a day if you are prone to excessive sweating Rotate your footwear so that your shoes can dry out Use foot powder You can reduce the risk of thick toenails or the recurrence of toenail fungus in several ways: Toenails that grow thicker over time may indicate a fungal infection. Treatment is available in the form of topical applications. Dipping the toes in the warm apple cider vinegar solution promotes the healthy circulation of blood in the toes which is highly beneficial for the alleviation of pain, swelling, inflammation, and infection of the toenails. Nail problems can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious or long-term condition, such as: nail psoriasis. If your thick toenails are the result of injury caused by tight shoes, you should make sure you always wear comfortable shoes that dont restrict your feet. Can you get toenail fungus from your shoes? (Ew.) Moisture helps with bacterial and fungal growth. Some acidic gels such as Nonyx gel can be used to remove the excessive layers of the nails that have built up. Scrub your toenails with baking soda or toothpaste. Apply a thick moisturizer, such as Eucerin or Aquaphor, daily or after bathing. 2. If a blood blister appears under the nail, dont pop it. The deformations of the toenails are caused by a variety of factors. Thick Yellow Toenail Symptoms. The fungus attacks the nail bed causing the toenail to lift. Unlock expert answers by supporting wikiHow, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/multimedia/nails/sls-20076741?s=2, https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/nail-problems#1, https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/nail-psoriasis, https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/treatments/topicals/steroids, http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/02/science/why-do-toenails-thicken-as-we-age.html, http://www.nytimes.com/2013/05/21/science/how-do-you-prevent-toenails-from-thickening-and-getting-deformed.html, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0072731/, https://www.health.harvard.edu/skin-and-hair/toenail-problems. One treatment for thick toenails is called debridement . Cut your toenails right away. Relieving a curved toenail can prevent further pain and minimize the chance of infection. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Who is at risk of developing thick toenails? If you have a fungal infection, your doctor may prescribe an over-the-counter cream, oral medication, or laser therapy. Incorporate the following foods into your diet to beat the infection and brittleness of nails and make them grow long and shiny. References. Severe cases may require a prescription antifungal treatment. According to the different causes shown above, treatments for thick toenails are also various. Your doctor will typically look at your nails to diagnose the condition. Toenail Removal - Before, During, and After Surgery. Try One of These 10 Home Remedies for Toenail Fungus, How to Treat Plantar Warts at Home Naturally, Capsulitis of the Foot: How to Find Relief. Older people should take care of their toenails. To get to the edges, into the cuticle, and around the nail bed, use a cotton swab or a Q-tip. Toenails are usually semi-transparent, but they can . Foods rich in biotin like milk, oats, cucumbers, lettuce, etc. Usually, these nail changes happen because of a skin condition or infection. An antifungal cream (either prescribed or over-the-counter) can help to soften the exterior of the nail. In some cases, fungus can cause the toenails to become thicker. For this procedure, your healthcare provider will use tools to remove extra layers of your toenail and help reduce the thickness. Treating severe cases of fungal infection may require the removal of the nail in order to fully treat the nail bed below. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. The home remedies to get rid of thick toenails are quick, efficient, effective, and nourishing for the skin as well. Toenails can give clues to your overall health status. But no worries whatsoever as you get to read and find out a host of surprising ways on how to get rid of thick toenails at home. Or soak them a few minutes in lukewarm water first. Injuries. Thick toenails are not only unsightly, but also can be a sign of a more serious issue that may need treatment. When mild, it looks like white and yellow spots growing under the nail beds. Oral medications. All rights reserved. Conduct a patch test on the skin to ascertain that the paste is not too harsh for your skin. Your toenails can thicken for many reasons. Dont cut or push them back. Psoriasis: Medications such as topical steroids or injections may be prescribed to treat both the skin condition and the associated thickened . You can also soak the feet in vinegar for 20-25 minutes a day to help soften them. Now is the time to take action and implement the steps laid out to get rid of thickened toenails quickly. You can try some home-based treatments first and then talk with your doctor about prescription-based options. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 262,033 times. Mix these two ingredients with water to form a thick. CUTTING SEVERE THICK NAILS, HOW TO CUT THICK TOENAILS, FUNGUS IN TOENAILS, FUNGAL NAIL CURE - YouTube Dr. Todd Brennan trims up some thickened, vertical, fungal toenails. Fungal infections will require medical treatment from your doctor. The paste can also help with the prevention of toenails growing thick and promote the growth of long and healthy nails instead. Redness and inflammation will appear around the base of the toenail, and its often tender to the touch. Your toes can often be susceptible to fungal infections because of exposure to wet areas. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Slightly thicker toenails dont pose any immediate risks to your health, but they are harder to trim. Last Updated 04 January, 2023. Here are 10 remedies that may be used to treat mild to severe, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. You can also prevent toenail fungus from occurring or from recurring by following the steps and tips below: Wash your feet with soap and water, and then pat them dry. Is it Safe to drink Boldo Tea? This article was co-authored by Miguel Cunha, DPM and by wikiHow staff writer, Amy Bobinger. The infection is initially minor, but with time may spread and cause your toenail to grow thicker, which can lead to other symptoms. Soak Your Feet The first step is to soak your feet in a foot soak solution that will soften your nails so you can clip them. Thick and greenish toenails are not only ugly but can be painful too. You can also soften them the night before you clip them. Home remedies for yellow toenails or toenail fungus include. Both home care and medical treatment can be applied to cope with this condition. Its often painful. Youll notice significant thickening of the nail, with an opaque, yellow-brown discoloration. Trimming thick hard toenails can be difficult, but there are a . 5. (Related: How to Get Rid of an Ingrown Toenail, According to the Expert). Try These Remedies! How to Treat a Black Toenail 4. Vicks VapoRub Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Doctors recommend using hot water mixed with Epsom salt to treat thick toenails. Toenail discoloration is a common problem. Paronychia is a tender infection or inflammation that appears around the nail fold base (the area near the cuticle). Here's why your toenails might be yellow and the treatment options. Thick toenails are most commonly caused by fungus, but they can also be the result of aging, injury, or an underlying condition like diabetes or psoriasis. Always use nail clippers for fingernails and toenail clippers for toenails. As the toenails thicken, they may appear rough, ridged, or scaly on the surface. Make sure to use disinfected tools when trimming your nails. 2. Applying only an over-the-counter topical antifungal ointment isn't enough if you have a long-term fungal infection, you will probably also ne. Vicks VapoRub Firstly, you need to trim and file your nails as much as possible. Laser therapy. File the affected toenails down as thin as you can. Cuticles serve an important purpose in protecting the nail root from bacteria and germs. Although not all cases of toenail fungus need treatment, thick toenails may be a symptom of worsening fungus. Apply Vicks VapoRub on your toenail each day. 4. The topical application of the herb helps in enhancing the regular flow of blood. Did you know you can get expert answers for this article? The good news is that if an infection is diagnosed, prompt treatment can help cure it. Heres What to Do. And while you cant prevent an injury from accidentally happening to your toenail, you can ward off repeated trauma by wearing properly fitted shoes. A change in the thickness of your toenails may be just one symptom of a fungal infection. Toenails that grow thicker over time likely indicate a fungal infection, also known as onychomycosis. Be sure the clippers are completely dry before using or storing them. Using a cotton swab, apply the tea tree oil directly to the nail twice a day. Some of the general causes of the development of thick and painful toenails are listed below. 3. What Causes the White Spot on Your Nails? The toenail becomes thick and discolored. Soak them in a warm bath first to soften them. Here's how to cut curved toenails. Over-the-counter ointments, creams, and polishes are usually effective. What Is Shock Wave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis? The temperature should be warm enough to comfortably place your foot in it. After the feet have dried, gently buff away the top layer of the nail that has loosened from the treatment. If possible, trim your nails after a shower or bath. Most of the times, thick toenails are caused due to fungal infection and getting rid of the fungal infection may be an arduous . Start by washing the feet thoroughly with soap, all your attention should be centralized on the toenails. Left untreated, thick toenails can become painful. Follow through with the home remedies to soothe the pain and cure the discoloration and hardness of toenails. Initial treatment focuses on reducing the thickening and curvy nail growth. This video shows the conservative treatment for a thickened toenail. CopyRight WWW.MD-HEALTH.COM. Repeat this treatment three times a week until the nails are no longer overly thick. (Related:9 Natural Home Remedies for Swollen Feet). This can cause pain and swelling in the skin around the nail. Youre probably not staring at your feet every day, especially during frigid seasons when they go from one pair of socks to another. Luckily, many causes of thick toenails can be treated. In less severe cases, natural remedies can be used to help treat a thickened toenail. If you have an exceptionally tough build up, you can use manicure tools to remove some of the particles gently. Another reason for what causes thick toenails is poor blood circulation or PAD ( peripheral arterial disease.) You may experience a recurrence of toenail fungus after treatment. How to Cure Toenail Fungus: Can Vinegar Help? It can occur when foot fungus, such as athletes foot, travels to the toenail. Fill a bucket half way with clean, warm water. Read on to gain expertise on those thick yellow toenails and how to treat them. Thick toenails may be caused by several issues, from outer trauma to more serious internal conditions, but they are universally common in the aging population. Nusha Ashjaee / Verywell. You can try a variety of home-based methods to treat nail fungus. Vinegar Mix baking soda and warm water to form a paste (or just use toothpaste) and scrub your toenails gently with a toothbrush for about 5 minutes to help lighten or completely remove the stain. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. What you would do is angle the toenail nipper in at an angle and trim a little of the thickness of the toenail out at a time. The use of the snakeroot herb is a fantastic way of how to treat hard thick, crumbly toenails and thick, brittle toenails. After cleansing, dry your feet and nails well to avoid excess moisture under the toenail 1. The first step in treating dystrophic nails is finding the cause. Such infections need medical treatment. Foods rich in folic acids such as avocado, citrus fruits, spinach, beetroot, etc. Applying oregano oil, with the help of a cotton swab to the affected toenail twice a day every day can help with the fungal. % of people told us that this article helped them. Toenails become thick due to variations in the nail bed, plate and root. Rinse off the soap using warm water, and dry with a towel. You can mix baking soda with water to apply it over the toenails or mix Sodium borate (borax) with it. Onychogryphosis is an underlying disorder of the nail plate growth, says dermatologist Pooja Sodha, MD, director of cosmetic dermatology at George Washington Medical Faculty Associates in Washington, D.C. It is believed that coconut oil contains fatty acids that integrate and destroys the fungus membrane, by inserting themselves in the lipid layer of the fungus membrane, and thus disturbing it. Snakeroot herb gets steeped in phytochemical compounds that aid in the alleviation of pain, swelling, inflammation, redness, and other symptoms of thick toenails. Yes! The Amazing Benefits of Doing Reverse Crunches, Do yoga to Reduce the Risk of Alzheimers Disease. Support wikiHow by You may notice no discomfort in the early stages of the infection. The medical grade mineral oil enriched gel will also soften and moisturise, helping to reduce hard skin build up. Try one home remedy at a time, and keep track of your results and any reactions. Soak for 30 minutes for two or three times a day. Is it safe? 6 You may still require treatment for the cause of the nail thickening. Stir one teaspoon of salt per pint into the water and soak the toes for about 15 minutes. You can also reference the table below to learn about appropriate treatment options based on the nature of your condition. The topical application of diluted tea tree essential helps in restoring color to the nails and promotes the growth of healthy nails by the inhibition of the action of the thick toenails fungus. You will need to trim your toenails carefully once they have become thicker. Clean your feet and toenails thoroughly on a daily basis. Epsom Salts Epsom salt or magnesium sulfate foot soak can be prepared and used 1-2 times a day. Add a few tablespoons of the extract of snakeroot herb to the water to make a paste, Smear your thick, brittle toenails with the snakeroot herb paste, Wrap your thick toenails with sterile gauze, Rinse your feet with lukewarm water after about an hour, Do this twice daily for the cure of thick toenails, Add half a teaspoon of tea tree essential oil to a tablespoon each of orange oil and coconut oils to make an oil mixture, Massage the thick, discolored toenails for about 15-20 minutes with the oil mixture, Apply the oil mixture to the toenails in every alternate hour, Massage your toenail cuticles with the oil mixture, Do this on a daily basis for the natural treatment of thick toenails, Blend a cup each of warm water and apple cider vinegar to make a solution, Dip your toes in the lukewarm solution and make sure that the thick, brittle toenails get completely immersed in the solution, Keep your toes dipped in the solution for about 30 minutes or until the solution becomes cold, Do this in every couple of hours to get rid of thick toenails, Fill a bath-tub with warm water and add a cup of Epsom salt to the water, Dip your toes in the lukewarm solution and make sure that the thick white toenails get completely immersed in the solution for about 30 minutes, Do this twice on a daily basis for the cure of white hard thick nails, Dip your feet in a tub filled with lukewarm water, Keep your toes immersed in the warm water for about 20-25 minutes, Clip at the softened nails by using a nail cutter, Make sure that you do not clip the nail cuticle, Moisturize your toes with coconut oil after cutting the toenails. Fungus. The following are some home remedies to treat thick toenails, 1. Shoes and socks that fit properly are a must. If you have preexisting medical conditions, treatment can be vital so that the fungus doesnt contribute to secondary infections or complications. Like any other fungus or bacteria, it takes time to grow, so one might not notice a problem until the growth is well under way. Here are 15 possible causes of burning in the feet, plus things you can do to relieve your pain. The changes may be temporary or permanent depending on the severity of the cause. Left untreated, thick toenails can become painful. Prevention is the best way to avoid thick toenails from trauma and injury. Wear shoes that fit properly, especially when engaging in strenuous activities.