However, thickened toenails can indicate an underlying health issue and should not be ignored.\u00a0When it comes to maintaining good health, many people overlook their feet until they notice unusually thick toenails after removing a sock. Some might brush off this symptom, especially if they\u2019re not concerned about aesthetics\u2014after all, how often do people really look at their feet?Causes of Thick ToenailsAccording to Dr. Abigail Waldman, a dermatologist at Brigham and Women\u2019s Hospital, feet tend to be sweaty and damp, creating an ideal environment for fungi, yeasts, and molds that naturally occur on the skin to thrive. Fungal infections can occur after a pedicure at a nail salon or by walking barefoot in places like swimming pools and locker rooms. These infections often start on the skin of the feet or toes, potentially leading to athlete\u2019s foot and subsequent toenail issues.Several factors can cause toenails to thicken, including injuries, fungal infections, and specific medical conditions. Healthcare providers typically examine the toes to identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatments. Common causes include:\u2022Onychomycosis: A prevalent type of toenail fungus that prompts the body to grow a new nail beneath the infected one.\u2022Onychauxis: Also known as onychogryphosis, this condition may arise from injuries or medical conditions such as diabetes and psoriasis, resulting in symptoms like thickened, yellowed, or curled nails.\u2022Onycholysis: Occurs when the nail plate detaches from the nail bed, often due to nail injuries, allergic reactions, psoriasis, or excessive filing.SymptomsWhile different causes can lead to varying symptoms, there are additional signs beyond thickened toenails that may indicate a medical issue. Infected toenails can become:\u00a0\u2022Scaly or chalky in appearance\u2022Split or crumbled\u2022Lifted away from the nail bed\u2022Foul-smelling\u2022Yellow, green, or brown in color\u2022Accumulating debris underneathComplicationsAlthough thick toenails are often merely a\u00a0cosmetic\u00a0concern, leaving them untreated can result in more severe health problems. These complications may include nail loss, permanent tissue damage to the toes, infections that spread to the bones, cellulitis, and even sepsis.Treating Thickened ToenailsNail infections can be more challenging to treat than skin infections, as medications and creams struggle to penetrate the nail tissue. However, some home remedies may help. Soaking the nails before applying antifungal cream can be beneficial. A mixture of one part apple cider or white vinegar to three parts warm water can be used for soaking for 10 to 40 minutes\u2014the longer, the better. Ensure the area is dried thoroughly before applying the cream.Numerous over-the-counter products are available for treating athlete\u2019s foot, and applying 100% tea tree oil or Vicks VapoRub to the affected nails can be effective. Mild infections may respond to medicinal creams like amorolfine, ciclopirox, and efinaconazole. More severe infections might require oral medications such as fluconazole, griseofulvin, itraconazole, or terbinafine, typically taken for three months.Laser therapy is another option, utilizing light to penetrate and break down nail tissue. Since various types of laser treatments exist, it\u2019s best to consult with your doctor to determine the most suitable choice. In some cases, a visit to a dermatologist may be necessary for complete removal of the affected toenails.Keep in mind that it can take months or even a year for a healthy toenail to fully regrow. During this time, it\u2019s essential to adhere to the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor and maintain proper foot hygiene. For example, use separate nail clippers for infected and healthy nails to prevent spreading the infection.Risk FactorsWhile anyone can develop thickened toenails, certain factors can increase the risk, including:\u2022Poor foot hygiene\u2022Inadequate trimming of toenails\u2022Ill-fitting shoes\u2022Using public pools and showers\u2022Foot injuries affecting the toenails\u2022Athlete\u2019s foot\u2022Frequent pedicures\u2022Tobacco use\u2022Undergoing radiation or chemotherapy\u2022Medications that weaken the immune system\u2022Medical conditions impacting the immune system or circulationPrevention TipsTo reduce the risk of\u00a0infections, consider the following strategies:\u2022Sterilize nail clippers with alcohol, especially if shared with others.\u2022Trim nails regularly.\u2022Change socks frequently.\u2022Disinfect socks and shoes routinely.\u2022Protect feet in public showers and locker rooms.\u2022Promptly treat athlete\u2019s foot.\u2022Keep feet dry.\u2022Seek professional help to remove any buildup from under your toes rather than attempting to do it yourself.\n

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