As the name suggests black toenail fungus is a fungal infection. Contrary to the name, it does not just affect the toe nail but can affect one or all the nails of the hands and feet. It is typically characterized by flaky, discolored nails, with vertical cracks running through them. Many a times the toenail may become too brittle and can start chipping away from the base. At other times it may become too thick and foggy. A foul smell may emanate in some cases. Some people infected with toenail fungus complain of pain while walking or on applying external pressure on the affected region.
Moist conditions are the most common cause for toenail fungus. Wearing inadequate or open footwear in open and public places such as pools, gymnasiums, saunas, playgrounds, which are moist or inadequately sanitized, considerably increases the chances of infection. In many cases where the toe is constantly being brushed against the shoe or is under constant moist surroundings, such as sweaty socks and shoes, as in the case of athletes and swimmers, toenail fungus is a common occurrence. If nails are cut too short, minor cuts in the skin can increase chances of contracting infection as well.
It is best to treat this condition at the very onset to avoid painful and embarrassing moments. Over the counter medicines and ointments, work well in curing this condition. However, this condition can be easily treated with simple and basic home remedies quite effectively as well. These are inexpensive and are equally competent in curing the infection. It is imperative that one begins by cleaning the toe well followed by topical application of various substances as mentioned below.
In conjunction with these remedies, one must take care, so as to keep the affected region dry and well covered in public areas. Always use your own nail clippers and avoid sharing it with people. Shoes and socks must be well washed, disinfected and dried frequently to avoid recurrent infection.