Toe nail fungus is a fungal infection that is caused by microorganisms.  Toe nail fungus is also called onychomycosis when it affects the nail plate and tinea when it affects the nails.  Because the fungi grow in a warm and moist environment, it can affect both the finger nails and the toe nails; however, it is most commonly found in toe nails.

At first, the infection is not painful.  But as it spreads it can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort, not to mention the fact that it becomes unsightly.  The fungal infection can cause the nails to become chipped, brittle and odiferous.  This can embarrass the person who has toe nail fungus.  The fungi can grow when the toe nail breaks, if the person wears tight fitting shoes, wears damp shoes or socks, or has small cuts on their skin.  This article discusses the causes and symptoms of toe nail fungus as well as some easy home remedies to treat it.

What causes toe nail fungus?
Toe nail fungi grow in dark, damp conditions such as in public fitness facilities and swimming pools.  It can also occur when the feet get wet from bathing or sweating.  People that are susceptible to toe nail fungus may have poor hygiene or an unusual pH level in their bodies.

What are symptoms of toe nail fungus?
When a person has toe nail fungus, their nails will first become brittle and thick and they can crack or break.  As the infection worsens, the person’s toe nails will accumulate odiferous debris under the nail.  They may see a yellowish or brownish discoloration of their nail or spots on the sides of the nail.  The nail will become painful to touch and the shape of the nail can become distorted.

Home remedies
Tea tree oil and lavender oil are often used to treat toe nail fungus.  Coat a cotton ball with the oils and rub the infected toe nails twice a day.  The infected feet can also be soaked in Listerine mouthwash, which acts as a disinfectant.  Another remedy is to soak the feet in a mixture of warm water and apple cider vinegar.