Thick toenails are not only unsightly but can also be quite painful. If you are one of the many people who suffer from this problem, don’t worry, there are ways to care for them and make them more manageable. In this article, we will discuss the causes of thick toenails, how to properly care for them, and some tips on how to prevent them from becoming thick again.
What are thick toenails?
Thick toenails are a common condition that can be caused by a number of factors, including trauma, infection, and even genetics. While thick toenails may not be harmful, they can be unsightly and uncomfortable. In some cases, they may also lead to problems with walking or wearing shoes. If you have thick toenails, several treatment options are available to you.
What causes thick toenails?
One in every five people will suffer from a fungal infection of the toenails at some point in their lives. Thickening of the toenails is one of the common symptoms of this infection. In most cases, the toenails will slowly become thicker and more yellow or brown in color. There are several causes of thickened toenails, but the most common is a fungal infection. Read more about the cause of thick toenails.
Poor hygiene
Toenails that are thick and difficult to cut can indicate poor hygiene. When the nails are not properly cleaned, the accumulation of dirt and oils can cause them to thicken. In addition, shoes that are too tight or worn in the wrong places can also lead to thickened nails. If you are having difficulty cutting your toenails, it is important to seek medical attention in order to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Poor circulation
Toenails that are thick, yellow, and difficult to cut can indicate poor circulation. When the body does not get enough oxygen-rich blood, the nails can become discolored and grow more slowly. In some cases, the nails may even fall off. Poor circulation is often the result of a medical condition such as diabetes or heart disease but can also be caused by lifestyle factors such as smoking and being overweight.
Diabetes
Thick toenails are often the result of fungal infection but can also be caused by other medical conditions such as diabetes. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects the way the body uses sugar. When someone has diabetes, their blood sugar levels are too high, which can cause damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the feet. This can lead to a number of problems, including thick toenails.
Fungal infection
Nails are made of a tough protein called keratin. Nail problems can be caused by nail injury, nail infection, or other diseases. Fungal infection of the nails, also called onychomycosis, is a common problem that causes the nails to become thick and discolored. The infection can spread from the nails to the skin around the nails and can be difficult to treat.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin disorder that is caused by the overproduction of skin cells. This condition can cause thick toenails. Psoriasis is a chronic condition, meaning it lasts for a long time and is not curable. However, there are treatments available that can help to control the symptoms. If you have psoriasis, it is important to see a doctor so that you can receive the proper treatment.
Trauma
Trauma is the leading cause of thick toenails. It can be from various sources, including injury, infection, and even pressure from shoes. When the toenail is traumatized, the body starts to produce more keratin in an effort to protect the nail. This extra keratin makes the toenail thicker and harder to cut. If you are experiencing thick toenails, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and receive treatment.
how to care for thick toenails
Thick toenails are a common problem, especially among older adults. While they may be unsightly, thick toenails are usually not a sign of a serious health problem. However, they can be difficult to care for. In this area, we will discuss how to care for thick toenails.
Keep your feet clean and dry.
If you are one of the many people with thick toenails, taking care of them is important to keep them healthy and looking good. One of the most important things you can do is keep your feet clean and dry. Wearing socks and shoes that fit well and allow your feet to breathe will help, as will using a foot powder or spray. If you have an athlete’s foot or another fungal infection, make sure to treat it immediately.
Trim your toenails regularly.
Thickened toenails can result from a fungal infection, trauma, or a medical condition. Toenails that are thickened can be difficult to trim and can cause pain when walking. To care for thick toenails, it is important to trim them regularly. Trimming toenails regularly can help prevent them from becoming too thick and can help reduce the chances of a fungal infection.
Use a pumice stone to exfoliate your feet.
If you suffer from thick toenails, you know that they can be difficult to care for. Thick toenails are often more prone to fungus and other infections and can be difficult to keep trimmed and looking neat. One way to help care for your thick toenails is to exfoliate your feet regularly using a pumice stone.
Pumice stones are available at most pharmacies and drugstores and are very affordable.
Apply a thick moisturizer to your feet and toes.
Thick toenails can result from several issues, including fungal infection, trauma, and a lack of moisture. If you have thick toenails, it’s important to take care of them by applying a thick moisturizer to your feet and toes every day. This will help to keep your nails healthy and strong.
Wear socks and shoes that fit well.
Toenails are thicker and harder to care for when they are not exposed to the open air and regular wear. Many people with thicker nails resort to cutting them shorter, but this is not always the best option. There are a few ways to care for thick toenails that don’t involve cutting them short. One of the best methods is to wear socks and shoes that fit well.
See a podiatrist if you have any concerns about your toenails
Your feet are one of the most important parts of your body, and it’s important to take care of them. You should see a podiatrist if you have any concerns about your toenails. Podiatrists can help you with various problems, including ingrown toenails, fungus, and warts. They can also advise you on how to take care of your feet.
Prevention for thick toenails
- Keep your feet clean and dry.
- Trim your toenails regularly.
- Use a good foot cream.
- See a podiatrist if necessary.
- Follow a healthy diet.
- Soak your feet in Epsom salts.
- Apply a topical antifungal medication.
- Clip your toenails straight across.
- File your nails in one direction only.
- Wear shoes that fit well and are made from breathable materials
Conclusion
Taking care of thick toenails requires a bit more effort than taking care of thin ones, but keeping them healthy and looking good is worth it. By following the tips above, you can keep your toenails looking their best, regardless of their thickness.