The growth rate of nails decreases when people get older. This results in thickening because nail cells pile up. The process of nail cells piling up is referred to as onychocytes. Another reason why fingernails don't thicken as much is their growth rate is smaller than the growth rate of toenails.
Once your toenail grows thick, it will always be thick, this is a permanent change. There are only two main options when we have a thickened toenail: Conservative treatment where the foot specialist will debride (file) your toenails to their normal flat level.
Zinc deficiency may manifest in the body in a number of ways. An external sign that a person is deficient in zinc is the condition of their nails.
Keratin is a protein that promotes the development of the skin and nails. Nail psoriasis sometimes causes too much keratin to grow under the nail. This overgrowth is called subungual hyperkeratosis. People with hyperkeratosis may notice a white, chalky substance under the nail.
Soak your toes in warm water for five to 10 minutes. This will help soften the nail and allow you to more easily cut the thick nail.
“Applying Vicks VapoRub to fungus-infected toenails can clear up the notoriously hard-to-treat condition. Michigan State University clinicians found that applying the product daily to the infected nail cleared the condition in 32 of 85 patients, though it took anywhere from 5 to 16 months…”
Gehwol Nail Softener works quickly and painlessly to soften hard and difficult to trim nails. It makes an excellent home treatment for corns and calluses around toenails, as well as uninfected ingrown toenails.
A heavy object dropped on the top of the nail bed will cause injury and trauma and the result is a thickened nail. This eventually grows out. Stubbing the end of your toenail causes trauma directed back into the nailbed, this will thicken the nail and will also eventually grow out.
Thickened toenails usually don't need medical care. But if they keep getting thicker over time or if they become painful, contact your health care team. Also make a medical appointment if you don't think you can trim your toenails safely on your own.
Soften your toenails by soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes, then dry thoroughly. With a nail nipper, cut straight across the top of the toenail. Use small cuts straight across the toenail to avoid splintering, which may cause an infection.
Vaseline petroleum jelly is ideal for keeping your heels and toes soft. For added protection, you can even grease your soles with salve before putting your socks on. The results will be amazing, you will have softer feet and cuticles and fewer calluses.
Professional podiatrist toenail clippers are made of high quality surgical grade stainless steel for sharp and durability. Podiatrist tools are very sharp and can cut off any rough edges without pain.
Thick nails should be sanded to avoid ulcerations due to shoe pressure, and can be sanded as thin as you desire. While the skin under the nail may be initially more sensitive under sanding, there is no harm in exposing it completely if necessary.
She may recommend an oral antifungal, such as terbinafine or itraconazole, too. If your nails are crusted with keratin debris, she scrapes it away with specialized tools. If your infection is severe, she may recommend toenail surgery to temporarily remove the infected nail and treat the nail bed topically.
Like your fingernail, a healthy toenail is a light pink color. Any yellowing or hints of black hue indicate a problem. For instance, you are most likely to have a fungal infection if your toenails start to become yellow. Yellowing can also be a side effect of diabetes, liver disease, or smoking.
Pay Attention to Your Health
Some medical conditions affect the condition of your toenails. The most common are diabetes and psoriasis. Diabetics often have reduced blood flow to their feet, which may cause thicker toenails or numbness.
Vitamin D, which can be obtained through sun exposure, is one of the few exceptions. Lack of these nutrients may affect the nail, the nail bed, or both and may present on physical exam or with biopsy.
Vitamin D ensures healthy nails and reduces the risk of nail peeling and chipping, which can often be caused by nutritional deficiencies. Vitamin D regulates calcium levels in the body which is an essential contributor to having healthy nails.
The fastest way to eliminate the infection is through toenail laser treatment. Laser nail therapy specifically targets the microorganisms under your nail while leaving the keratin intact. In just a few treatments, the infection can be entirely eliminated.
The best type of vinegar to treat toenail fungus is apple cider vinegar, a very acidic and strong solution that destroys toenail fungus at the source. To take full advantage of this, mix one cup of apple cider vinegar with at least 2 cups of water – this will dilute the vinegar so that it won't burn your skin.