Horny toenails. How to treat thickened toenails quickly and effectively? Drug treatment and folk remedies

Thickening of the nail thumb legs, the treatment of which must be comprehensive, directly depends on the cause of the deformity. The provoking factor may be injury, fungal infection and systemic diseases. The problem can arise after an unsuccessful pedicure, as well as due to nail psoriasis.

Treatment methods

Treatment for thickening toenails is carried out medications, folk methods, as well as using hardware cosmetology.

Essential oils, hot baths with salt and special ointments can be used to soften the plate.

Medications

1. How to treat plate deformation caused by a fungus:
2. Terbinafine, which is taken orally for 1.5-2 months. The drug has an antifungal effect, as a result of which the condition of the nails improves and the plate gradually levels out.
3. Fluconazole, which should be taken for at least six months to achieve results.

Ketoconazole, used for several months and can completely eliminate the fungal flora.

Oral medications are often combined with local agents. Indications for such treatment are itching and burning upon contact with the skin that is located next to the nail bed.

Ointments

If the color of the nail plate changes to yellow, itching is present, treatment is supplemented with local remedies that will help speed up recovery. Most often, ointments are used that can destroy fungi, preventing their proliferation in the affected area. These drugs include: Miconazole, Fundizol, etc. Additionally, ointments are used that can penetrate deep into the plate and destroy fungal colonies. These include: Lamisil, Exoderil, etc.

• How to cure a nail:
• ointments should be applied daily for a month;

Apply the composition to the affected area and leave for a while, then remove along with a small layer of the plate.

To treat thickened nails, you can use special medicinal varnishes, the most effective of which is Loceryl. The active component is amorolfine, which has a detrimental effect on fungi and helps align the plates. The varnish is applied for three months. During this time, the nails acquire normal color and structure.

Another effective varnish is Batrafen. The active component is ciclopirox, which eliminates both fungi and bacteria.

This remedy can only be used after consultation with a doctor, because If used incorrectly, it will cause the plate to peel off.

Cosmetical tools

In addition to medications, they are used cosmetical tools, such as:

• Eveline is a serum intended for topical use. This product penetrates deep into the nail, leveling the plate and strengthening it.
• Naomi is a product that reconstructs nails. Contains a complex of vitamins and minerals that can strengthen the plate and level it.
• Gerlan is a nail care product containing chamomile extract, which has an anti-inflammatory effect. Additionally, the composition includes wheat germ and vitamin E.

Cosmetics do not replace drug therapy, but only complement it.

Oils

You can eliminate thickening of the nail plate on the toes using essential oils. It is recommended to use these products in diluted form. To do this, you first need to remove the top layer of the nail using a fine abrasive file. You can use tea tree oil for treatment, which actively fights fungus. In 1 tsp. For any base you need to add 10 drops of ether and mix. Anything can be used as a base. vegetable oil or baby cream. Apply the finished mixture to prepared nails, rub in and leave until dry.

Traditional methods

When thickening toenails, treatment with folk remedies can be carried out in combination with medicinal methods. The most effective recipes:

1. Healing bath. Dissolve a few tablespoons of sea salt in 4 liters of warm water, place your feet in the container and sit for 15 minutes. Repeat the procedure daily. After this, wipe your feet and lubricate the deformed plate with iodine. The course of treatment is 3-4 weeks.
2. Apple vinegar. This product must be used for 1-2 months. It is recommended to soak a cotton pad in vinegar and wipe the problem areas with it 2 times a day.
3. Lemon compress. You need to use this product for at least a month. To do this you will need a slice of lemon, which must be applied to problem area and wrap it in polyethylene. Leave the product for several hours. Repeat daily.

Additionally, you can use garlic pulp, which has antifungal properties. One clove should be thoroughly crushed and bandaged to the problematic nail, leaving this compress overnight. You will have to repeat the procedure daily for 2-3 weeks.

Hardware cosmetology

In a salon environment, the thickened plate is given the correct shape by removing the top layer using a special apparatus. This procedure cannot eliminate the cause of the pathology, but can improve the appearance of the nail. This method used in conjunction with other treatment agents. After the procedure, the nail looks thinner and has a smooth surface. To eliminate the problem, use fine and coarse abrasive nozzles.

Prevention

To prevent the occurrence of pathology, the following rules must be observed:

• Try not to injure the nail bed. Follow safety rules when working with sharp objects.
• Wear rubber slippers when visiting the pool and sauna.
• Do not wear other people's shoes and socks.
• Do not use other people's towels.
• Get pedicures only from trusted professionals.

It is important to be careful when cutting your nails and removing cuticles.

Thickening of the big toenail is a common problem that is often overlooked. Various reasons can provoke the phenomenon: both mechanical and pathological. Therefore, it is important to find out why transverse plate growth occurs.

Clinical picture of thickening

Thickening of the nail on the big toe is quite common. This disease is accompanied by manifestations that may vary depending on the cause that caused the compaction.

In addition to thickening of the nail plate, a person experiences the following symptoms:

1. Death of the top layer of skin around the nail.
2. Changing its structure.
3. Pigmentation disorder, when the nail turns yellow or darkens.
4. Unpleasant foot odor.
5. Looseness of the nail.
6. The appearance of grooves.
7. Itching, swelling and redness of the skin.

If such signs appear, you should consult a doctor, as they indicate the development of pathological processes.

Appearance of a healthy nail plate

A normal toenail should be 1mm thick. With healthy growth, the regrowth rate is 0.25-1 mm in 7 days. The surface of the plate has a pinkish tint and is smooth. If there are changes in its color and other deviations from the above standards, then you should pay attention to this.

Causes of anomalies

There are many reasons why the first toenail becomes thicker. Factors may be associated with external influences or the development of pathological processes.

Wearing low-quality shoes for a long time

People often give preference to beautiful boots and boots, forgetting about convenience. This especially applies to women who regularly wear high-heeled shoes, which negatively affects the condition of their feet. Constricting, uncomfortable shoes impair blood circulation in the feet and put pressure on the nails.

If shoes are poorly ventilated, your feet will start to sweat a lot. As a result, a favorable environment is created for the proliferation of pathogens that provoke the development of nail fungus.

Impacts and other injuries

Thickening of the nail plate also occurs due to its damage due to bruises and other injuries. The nail not only becomes thick, but also acquires a darkish tint, as a hematoma forms under it due to rupture of blood vessels.

The wound resolves on its own if the plate is only slightly damaged.

Congenital predisposition

Some people's nails tend to thicken, which is not considered a pathological phenomenon. Typically, this process is observed in relatives, which allows us to conclude that there is a hereditary predisposition to changes in the thickness of the nail plates.

Circulatory disorders

Often the nail thickens in older people who suffer from atherosclerosis, gout, and rheumatism. These pathologies disrupt blood flow in the human body. The plate becomes not just thick, but also loose and fragile. In addition to these diseases, disruption of blood circulation occurs due to a sedentary lifestyle and poor nutrition. Therefore, patients should think about revising their lifestyle.

Psoriasis

Thickening of the toenail can be caused by skin pathologies. The most common cause is psoriasis. It occurs in several stages. With a mild degree, the color of the plate changes slightly, it turns yellow, and microcracks appear.

As the disease progresses, the nail becomes thick and begins to peel off. This process creates favorable conditions for infection and the development of inflammation.

Fungal diseases

Penetration of a mycotic infection under the nail often leads to thickening of the plate, its delamination, and looseness. It also turns yellow. The fungus requires long-term treatment, since the bacteria are very tenacious. The sooner foot therapy is started, the better, since pathogenic microorganisms quickly spread to the little finger and other nails, as well as to the skin.

Lack of microelements and vitamins

Shortage useful substances occurs due to improper nutrition. If a person’s diet is unbalanced, then the body receives too few vitamins and minerals. The deficiency affects the metabolism of substances, which negatively affects the health of the toenails.

Diagnostics

If thickening and yellowing of the nail plate and accompanying clinical symptoms are observed, you should consult a doctor to identify the cause of this process. Diagnostics includes the following methods:

1. Laboratory blood tests: general clinical, biochemical.
2. Examination of scrapings from a sore spot.
3. Computed or magnetic resonance imaging.
4. Ultrasonography.
5. Radiography.

Instrumental methods of examining the legs are carried out in order to assess the condition of the internal organs.

Treatment

Treatment for thickening of the nail of the first finger depends on what caused the development of this phenomenon. If the illness arose as a result of a bruise or other damage, then health activities not required: over time the plate will rehabilitate itself.

If the toenail has become thicker due to pathologies, then drug therapy will be needed.

Treatment with drugs and surgery

Depending on the disease that provoked the thickening of the nail plate, the doctor prescribes drugs from the following list:

• Antibiotics.
• Antifungal agents.
• Medicines intended to normalize blood flow in the body.
• Medicines that help speed up the healing of the affected area.

In advanced cases, when drugs cannot eliminate the problem, surgical intervention is required. During this process, the doctor removes the thickened toenail, in its place a new plate grows.

Folk remedies

To quickly heal after an injury or to destroy pathogenic microorganisms, patients widely use alternative medicines.

Traditional medicine is an excellent addition to medications.

Patients should pay attention to the following home methods:

1. Soak a cotton swab in lemon juice, apply to the affected area of ​​the toe, and secure with a band-aid. You need to keep the lotion until the cotton wool dries. The procedure is required twice a day until the problem completely disappears.
2. Pour half a glass of birch buds with 500 ml of vodka and leave for 10 days. The resulting medicine is used to wipe the sore spot on the leg or make compresses at night.

If the nail area has turned yellow and thickened, then in addition to using folk remedies, the patient should follow nutritional rules. The diet should contain a lot of vegetables, fruits, foods rich in proteins, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Especially for healthy nails, it is important to provide the body with calcium and magnesium.

Consequences and prevention of nail disease

Thickening of the nail on the big toe cannot be ignored if it occurs without obvious external causes. When an infection becomes the culprit of this phenomenon, and the person does not treat it, the disease affects more and more areas of the foot. In this case, it will be much more difficult to get rid of the pathology.

It is better not to allow damage to the health of the nail plate of the foot at all. To do this, just follow these simple recommendations:

1. Eat rationally.
2. Maintain personal foot hygiene.
3. To refuse from bad habits.
4. Avoid damaging your nails.
5. Wear comfortable and high-quality shoes.

Thickened toenails do not pose a serious health risk. But it cannot be left untreated, since often the phenomenon indicates the presence of pathological changes.

Healthy beautiful nails- this is, first of all, an indicator indicating that everything is in order with the body.

Yellowing and thickening of the nail plate is not so much an aesthetic defect as a medical problem that requires immediate treatment. Most often, complaints are received about thickening of the nails on the toes, rather than on the hands. This problem can occur in both men, women and children. The most common cause of nail deformation is trauma.

But more often, with the pathology of thickening of the toenails, the reasons may be associated with a deterioration in health. In any case, if such an ailment appears, be sure to make an appointment with a doctor. The sooner you contact a specialist, the sooner the disease will be identified. And therapy for a particular disease depends on initial stage always more efficient.

A problem such as thickening of toenails, the causes of which can be very different, is more common in older people. Young people often suffer from the disease. No matter how old you are or what gender you are, you must understand that this defect requires immediate treatment. Changes in the nail plates, or rather their thickening, may indicate problems not related to diseases; you can eliminate them yourself.

Nail damage can be caused by the following factors:

Wearing uncomfortable, ill-fitting shoes. We love beautiful shoes, but it would still be better if they were also comfortable. Frequently wearing shoes with unstable high heels is fraught not only with tired legs at the end of the day, but also with slowed blood flow and impaired lymph circulation, changes in the color and structure of nails, as well as their lamination and softening. There may also be an increase in the thickness of the nail, usually the thumb. But thickening of the remaining nails is also possible. Mechanical damage. It is enough to do a pedicure incorrectly or drop something heavy on your finger. Poor nutrition, frequent diets. A lack of vitamins, minerals, and microelements has a negative effect on the condition of the body, in particular on the condition of the nails. Genetic predisposition. Having bad habits. Decreasing the body's defenses.

But still, most often the causes of pathologies of thickening toenails are associated with diseases.

Deform nail plate may due to the presence of such diseases:

psoriasis; dysbacteriosis; nail fungus; vitamin deficiency; circulatory disorders; neuropathy; pachyonychia; eczema; atherosclerosis; gout; pathologies of the upper respiratory tract; rheumatism.

One of the most common causes of the disease is pachyonychia. This disease is congenital and does not affect health. As a rule, only the aesthetic component suffers. Thickening of toenails, the causes of which you already know, must be addressed immediately. Ignoring the problem can lead to severe deformation of the nail surface and aggravation of the underlying disease.

It is not recommended to use any medications without the knowledge of your doctor. Treatment of the disease can only be prescribed by a specialist and only after a thorough examination and diagnosis. To this day, no universal tactics for examining patients with such a problem as thickening of the nail plates have been developed.

In order to identify the root cause of thickening of the nails, the following studies are prescribed:

culture for onychomycosis; general and biochemical blood test; chest x-ray (in case of suspected tuberculosis, pneumonia or other lung diseases).

After identifying the underlying disease, therapy is prescribed. However, it will only be successful if you follow preventive measures.

Toenails turn yellow and thicken: treatment and prevention of the problem

Treatment for the disease is selected depending on the cause. As you already know, the reasons can be very different: mechanical damage, decreased immunity, poor nutrition, and also various diseases. If your toenails turn yellow and thicken due to injury, no treatment is required. After some time, the nail will recover on its own.

The following help speed up the healing process:

providing peace. In the first days, it is recommended to limit physical activity and avoid wearing tight, closed shoes; proper care: hygiene, use of home remedies; the use of external agents, in this case ointments: Heparin, Troxevasin.

If the defect is caused by a disease, then therapy will be aimed primarily at curing it. Enough frequently asked question on the forums: “What to do and what should be the treatment if the toenails turn yellow and thicken?” So, you shouldn't do this.

The person who recommends this or that remedy does not know the reason. And this can cause the underlying disease to worsen. Reviews of this or that drug will not help either. The only thing that can be effective is the use of medications prescribed by the attending physician. A common cause of deformed nails is fungus. If your fingers itch and your nails turn yellow and thicken, treatment should be immediate.

As a rule, for the treatment of fungal infections, the use of topical drugs is prescribed:

Terbizil; Lamisil; Mikozan.

These drugs are applied to the nails twice a day for a week. In addition, the use of systemic antifungal agents is prescribed: Flucostat, Fluconazole, Diflucan. In addition, if your toenails turn yellow and thicken due to a fungal disease, you can use folk remedies, prepared at home. However, the use of alternative remedies must be approved by the attending physician.

Thickening of toenails and treatment with folk remedies:

A good effect can be achieved in the treatment of the disease using an alcohol-iodine solution. It is recommended to apply it twice a day using an ear stick. Using baths. For this purpose, it is recommended to use tar soap. Grind the soap using a coarse grater. Dissolve a few tablespoons of soap shavings in just boiled water - about two liters. Cool a little, pour the mixture into a basin and lower your feet there for a quarter of an hour. Carry out the procedure every other day. Sea salt will help in healing. Dilute forty grams of salt in boiled water. Cool and steam in saline solution legs. The duration of the procedure is until the water cools down. Carry out the procedure every day. The course of therapy is one and a half weeks.

If the nails are deformed due to onychodystrophy - a non-fungal lesion resulting from one or another pathology or metabolic disorder, therapy is prescribed only after the root cause has been established.

As a rule, drug therapy for onychodystrophy consists of the use of vitamin and mineral complexes, calcium and iron supplements. Prescribed use: Retinol, Phytin, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Cyanocobalamin, Tocopherol acetate.

In addition, the use of physiotherapy will not be superfluous:

paraffin therapy; iontophoresis; phonophoresis; massage.

In order to eliminate yellowing and thickening of nails of non-fungal etiology, you can use alternative medicine.

Application of essential oils. Tea tree and celandine oils are especially effective. Treat your nail plates with the chosen oil and put on socks. Lemon juice. Lubricate with freshly squeezed lemon juice nails several times a day. It has whitening properties. Application of garlic ointment. Chop a few cloves of garlic and combine with butter - 10 grams. Treat each nail with the resulting mixture, then wrap it in plastic and put on socks.

In order to prevent thickening of nails, it is recommended to purchase and wear only high-quality shoes. It should not squeeze your fingers, and should be made of natural, breathable material. Avoid damaging your nails and maintain personal hygiene in public places. Do not go barefoot in swimming pools and saunas. Treat concomitant pathologies in a timely manner and strengthen the immune system, eat right.

The nail on the big toe turns yellow: how to treat the fungus

As you already know, one of the significant reasons for deformation of the nail plates is fungus. If you notice that your nails have changed color, become grayish, yellowish, become very crumbly, dry and flaky, you may have fungus. As a rule, the disease manifests itself more often on one or more nails.

The initial manifestation of the disease is damage to the tips of the nails, followed by the formation of whitish or yellowish spots or stripes, which eventually spread to the entire nail surface. In addition to the fact that the fungus causes the nail on the big toe to turn yellow, there is also severe itching of the dermis around the nail plate and pain around the affected area. Next, the nail on the big toe thickens and becomes keratinized.

The thickness and structure of the nail changes, the smooth surface becomes porous. The nail, instead of being strong and pink, becomes brittle and yellow. Ignoring the manifestations of the disease is fraught with detachment nail bed. Both children and adults can face this problem. Treatment for yellowing of the big toe nail should be timely and appropriate.

In order to eliminate thickening of the nail on the big toe, the following is prescribed:

antifungal drugs; agents that help improve blood circulation in the peripheral tissues of the feet; physiotherapy; removal of the nail (with severe thickening).

For systemic therapy, Griseofulvin, Ketoconazole, and Itraconazole are prescribed.

The use of topical products is also prescribed:

drugs containing clotrimazole: Amyclone, Imidil, Kanizon; containing miconazole: Dactarina, Mycozone; bifonazole preparations: Bifasama, Bifosina, Mycospora.

The use of nicotinic acid and calcium dobesilate is often prescribed. These products help improve blood circulation.

Important

Only a doctor can select the medicine; do not self-medicate. As an auxiliary therapy, you can use folk remedies.

To treat thickening of the big toe nail, you can use the following medicine. Grind two cloves of garlic and combine the raw material with melted natural beeswax - 10 grams, one chopped onion, finely chopped aloe leaf and melted butter. Simmer the mixture over low heat and cool. Apply to the affected nail and place a piece of fresh cabbage leaf on top.

Bandage your finger and put on a warm sock. After six hours, replace the compress with a new one. Now you know why the big toenail turns yellow and you know how to treat it similar illness. You should not self-medicate. Remember that thickening of the nail on the big toe, as well as its peeling, itching of the skin - all these are symptoms of fungus - a very dangerous disease.

If your big toenail turns yellow, consult a doctor. In order to prevent the development of fungus, it is recommended to follow the rules of personal hygiene, avoid injuries to fingers and nails, wear shoes on the beach, in the pool, sauna, and do not wear other people's shoes. Violation or non-compliance with these recommendations may result in fungal infection.

Let's start with what is the difference between deformed nails and healthy ones?
A normal nail is about one millimeter thick. It is smooth and shiny and has a pinkish color. When the color of the nail plate changes to yellowish or white, and sagging and grooves appear on its surface, and at the same time it thickens, at the same time becoming brittle and brittle - it’s time to sound the alarm! Perhaps all these metamorphoses indicate the presence of a much more serious problem in the body.

In addition, thickening of the nail plate is a rather unpleasant phenomenon for the following reasons.
Firstly, the nail itself looks ugly and not very aesthetically pleasing, causing psychological and physical discomfort to its owner. Secondly, due to pressure on the nail from the shoe underneath, painful ulcers usually occur.

Finally, in advanced cases, the damaged nail often injures neighboring fingers, causing inflammation and infection.
There can be only one way out of the situation: as soon as such a problem arises, it is necessary to quickly find out and, if possible, quickly eliminate its cause. Naturally, with the help of a competent specialist.

If we summarize the main reasons, they form two groups:

associated with internal problems of the body (internal) and nail diseases, most often associated with mechanical injuries (external).

Domestic

The most common cause of nail damage is fungi. Here alone cosmetic procedures You can’t do it - you need complex and, unfortunately, long-term treatment with special drugs.

In this case, self-medication can only aggravate the situation, since effective antifungal therapy can only be carried out after appropriate laboratory tests.

Only based on their results, the dermatologist will prescribe a course of treatment, and, if necessary, recommend surgical intervention.

On the other hand, to protect the body from fungal diseases, it is necessary to take preventive measures, some of which many of us neglect.

Damage to the nail plates is often caused by various chronic skin diseases, which, spreading their range, also capture the nail plates. And in this case, immediate intervention by a dermatologist is required.

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Most often the specific “culprit” is psoriasis, accompanied by the death of the upper layer of the epithelium, “intercepting” the nails along the way, as well as eczema, dermatitis and other diseases.

Not so often, but a genetic predisposition or, according to scientific evidence, can contribute to unpleasant metamorphoses with nails. pachyonychia.

This is exactly the case when treatment is meaningless and beauty salons can best solve the problem.

Of course, such a solution to the problem, based on hardware pedicure, will be temporary, but of sufficient quality.

Some may also affect the condition of the nails. diseases affecting the lower extremities and associated with poor blood supply, problems with blood vessels, damage to nerve processes, and blood clots. In this case, the patient often experiences painful sensations. Can provoke illness also diseases such as vitamin deficiency, dysbacteriosis, diseases nervous system. Find out what to do if your toenail has grown into your toe.

The next “provocateur” of nail modifications is stress. Even one severe nervous strain can affect their condition. This requires comprehensive treatment.

And finally lack of vitamins and microelements and minerals necessary for the body can also cause problems with the nail plates. Very often they are aggravated by improper diets. In any case, it is necessary to fill this gap and take multivitamin complexes.

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External

Exposure to external factors, e.g. injuries or mechanical damage, also affects the health of the nail plates.

Even an incorrectly done pedicure or a heavy object dropped on your finger can cause such a problem.

We do not consider it superfluous to further emphasize the need for careful adherence to preventive measures, in particular, using only comfortable and comfortable shoes.
It is not recommended to wear shoes that are too tight, and the heel height should not exceed 6 centimeters, otherwise you risk not only chronic leg fatigue and poor circulation in the lower extremities, but also negative changes in the nails - splitting and softening of the nails.


In this article you will find points for massaging your feet.

Prevention

The occurrence of modifications to the nail plates can be avoided by observing the following: preventive measures:

already from childhood, it should become a habit to regularly carry out thorough hygiene procedures using exclusively individual hygiene items; You should not use someone else’s shoes, including slippers, flip-flops, sports shoes, etc.; It is not recommended to wear shoes that are too narrow and uncomfortable; when buying shoes, fitting should be done only in socks; when visiting swimming pools, bathhouses, water parks and other public places, have a waterproof suit with you replacement shoes; take constant care to strengthen the immune system.

Read more about what types of massage there are.

If you still cannot avoid this unpleasant illness, you must immediately contact a qualified specialist.

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To summarize, let us remind you: the keratinized plates on the feet, serving as a natural protection for the delicate tips of the fingers, themselves need to be treated with care.
Observe prevention and, regardless of the causes of troubles, contact a specialist as soon as possible, putting a barrier before more serious problems arise.

How are thick toenails treated? If the toenail festers, begins to hurt, or changes its structure, or a growth has formed, consult a doctor without delay. It’s great if your nails are strong, healthy, smooth, transparent, even, with a slight pink tint. They do not cause problems and are easy to care for. Beautiful, well-groomed nails have always distinguished a person with good health.

Is it necessary to do something about a thickened nail on the big toe if it does not bother you? Thick nails on the big toes, which are most often the first to be affected, can cause pain when walking and serve as a symptom of an incipient disease in the body. Thickening of the big toe nails is a common condition that is easily treatable. This disease is observed in both men and women. Most often it is a consequence of a nail injury. In this case, treatment is not necessary; it will return to normal after a while. But in some cases, this pathology may be hereditary or symptomatic.

The appearance of healthy nail plates is characterized by a smooth surface, natural shine and good transparency on the nail bed with a pale pinkish color. Any changes in the shape, color, or density of nails may indicate the development of pathological processes in the body, the causes of which can only be identified by a doctor. It is much easier and faster to treat any disease early stage when the body’s immune system is not weakened and is ready to actively fight pathology. Thickening of nails may be a symptom of a serious pathology and a podiatrist will help you identify the cause of these unpleasant changes. Quite often, people are faced with the problem of thickening of the nail plates on the toes and especially on the big toe. The average thickness of a nail is 0.8-0.9 mm, and if this figure changes upward (a plate more than 1 mm thick becomes dense and less transparent), then do not try to solve the problem only cosmetic procedures at home.

The causes of thickening toenails can be both pathological and non-pathological. Non-pathological reasons for changes in the structure of the plates include various types of mechanical damage. For example, you can accidentally hit the big toe of your bare foot on some protrusion and, as a result of the bruise, the nail plate will grow back deformed from the damaged matrix. When regularly wearing too tight, uncomfortable shoes, the regeneration process of the keratin layers of the nail is disrupted and the plate becomes very dense, thickened, with longitudinal grooves.

Common pathological causes of thickening of the nail plate include diseases such as onychomycosis (nail fungus), psoriasis, rheumatism, and atherosclerosis. The scourge of our time is the increased number of fungal nail diseases caused by dermatophytes. Fungal spores penetrate small soft tissue wounds on the toes, actively develop, and then gradually destroy the nails. A good screening test for fungus: Apply a thin layer of iodine solution to your nail. A uniform distribution of yellow color indicates that dermatophytes have not affected the plate, and if they appear on it dark spots, then be sure to make an appointment with a dermatologist.


- in the photo: thickening of the nail plates

♦ REASONS FOR THICKEN NAILS

❶ Onychomycosis.
Most often, a fungal infection affects 1-3 toenails, after which the color changes (to yellowish, green or brown), the shine disappears and the plate gradually becomes deformed. At the first stage of the disease, you can get rid of the infection with the help of antifungal agents for external use. Treat adjacent nails with hydrogen peroxide or a vinegar solution to destroy fungal spores and prevent the spread of infection. Before going to bed, make foot baths by adding baking soda to warm water. Several times a week, make a compress on nails damaged by fungus: soak a cotton pad with celandine oil, apply to the nail, secure with a band-aid on your finger;

❷ Heredity.
In rare cases, the thickness of all toenails exceeds 1 mm due to hereditary factors. Thickened nail plates require special home care (preferably using a milling cutter for a hardware pedicure) so that the sides of the free edge are not injured soft fabrics on fingers;

❸ Psoriasis.
This chronic skin disease causes not only the rapid death of the upper layers of the skin, but also a thickening of the epidermis of the nail bed and the nails themselves;

❹ Metabolic disorder.
An unbalanced diet can cause metabolic disorders, which will affect the condition of the skin and nail plates;

❺ Circulatory disorders.
Problems with circulation in the extremities can lead to an imbalance in the composition of nutrients entering the matrix. As a result, nails grow back deformed, very hard and thick;

❻ Onychogryphosis.
Thickening of the nail plate with the development of a noticeable convexity, discoloration and the formation of vertical ribbing. The cause of onychogryphosis can be severe damage to the nail bed or matrix, as a result of which the nail plate grows back deformed. Onychogryphosis can also be caused by chronic diseases such as neuritis, rheumatism, varicose veins;

❼ Nail hyperkeratosis.
Some infectious diseases cause discoloration of nails and severe compaction of the plates. As a result, growing nails become thick and brittle;

❽ Pachyonychia.
There is a change in the structure and shape of one or more nail plates. Common causes of the development of pachyonychia include disorders of lymphatic drainage and microcirculation in the extremities, as well as inflammatory processes in the nail fold;

❾ Dysbacteriosis.
Violation of the ratio of different microorganisms in the microflora can affect changes in the appearance of the skin of the extremities and nails. The nails begin to peel, the structure becomes denser and the plate becomes thicker.

♦ VIDEO MATERIALS

Huge yellow or black nails on the hands and feet that resemble animal claws are not a very pleasant sight. They can be so hard that they cannot be cut off, they disfigure legs, and cause horror in people. Thick nails are so hard that they cannot be cut with scissors. Summer footwear becomes inaccessible. For women, this is generally a tragedy. They don’t know what to do about it, panic and hysteria begin.

Why did the nail plate on the big toe of each foot change its structure and become thicker? Thickening and changing color of nails can provoke various diseases.

Causes and symptoms of thickening:

1.The most common reason for this problem is fungus. The symptoms of fungus are very easy to recognize, as the toes begin to itch first.

Coming from the feet bad smell, the appearance of the nails deteriorates. It is easy to catch this disease. While visiting beauty salons, gym, solarium, swimming pool. More careless is wearing someone else's shoes. What to do if the nail on your big toe has turned slightly yellow and thicker?

The fungus is easy to treat this way. Even if you don’t have a fungus, it won’t cause any harm, and prevention won’t hurt.

2.Lymphatic circulation disorder is the second reason for this problem. It usually affects the toenails. Elephantiasis of the feet disrupts the uniform supply of nutrients, because the toes experience hypoxia, the nail plate becomes much thicker, and then darkens.

3.This trouble can be caused by diabetes. During the course of this disease, the blood supply is disrupted, the nail on the big toe experiences a lack of nutrients, becomes thicker, and its color and structure change.

4.Endocrine diseases, change the color and thickness of the nail plate. When the endocrine system is disrupted, the normal production of hormones is disrupted. Some are produced in excess, others, on the contrary, are not enough. If there are not enough hormones responsible for the growth and health of nails, then they become thick and change color.

5. Liver diseases, often lead to this problem. Seals, yellowness, roughness, grooves on the nails are one of the signs of liver disease.

6.Cardiac ischemia, leads to cessation of blood circulation, which causes the entire body to suffer, including the nails. They become very thick and acquire a yellow-gray tint.

7. Nervous system disease neuropathy is a complication diabetes mellitus. The peripheral type of this disease leads to decreased sensitivity of the lower extremities; they are more susceptible to dryness than other parts of the body. You need to watch every nail. If it changes color and becomes thicker, then you should definitely visit a dermatologist.

8. It happens that yellow and thick nails on a person’s feet or hands are a congenital feature. Disturbance of normal blood circulation leads to the fact that they turn yellow and thicken. This disease is called - onychogryphosis.

8. Because lack of vitamin B and calcium, toenails turn yellow, become streaky, and become thicker.

9. The nail on the big toe became painful and yellow, it’s all to blame wearing tight, uncomfortable shoes. In addition to yellowness, it may have blue and black spots. Over time, the nail falls away from the skin. To ensure that your new nail grows healthy, you need to wear comfortable shoes.

10. Elderly age. In people who have passed the age of sixty, their fingernails and toenails become thicker. This is more likely due to the fact that older people suffer from one of the above diseases, or metabolic disorders.

All these causes can be successfully treated. In order for each of the nails to become healthy again, there are folk remedies, as well as modern medicine.

Folk remedies for thickening of nails:

Before making baths and compresses, it is worth remembering that not all diseases can be cured with folk remedies. Traditional methods usually treat nail plate fungus.
Apple vinegar along with potassium permanganate, it is added to the water in which you wash your feet. Such baths need to be done for exactly a week to restore a healthy appearance to your nails.
Tea tree oil – good remedy from fungus. Treatment: you need to smear yellowed toenails every day.
Herbal collection, consisting of horsetail, oak bark and calendula, is successfully used for baths, has a quick and long-lasting effect.
Garlic– a product known for its antibacterial effect. In order to fight fungal diseases, garlic must be mixed with alcohol to make a tincture, then wipe your feet with it two to three times a day.
For a good effect, it is better to use two methods of treatment at once. For example, first take a bath, then smear your nails with oil.

After taking baths, you need to treat your steamed toenails with oil.
To treat internal causes use:
ivy leaves, filled with a liter of vodka or alcohol. They are first infused for three days, then taken one tablespoon per day. This helps normalize the functioning of the endocrine system.

Wild clove tea cleanses the blood and normalizes the functioning of the adrenal glands. It is an excellent remedy for treating many diseases, but this type of clove grows only in France.

If the nail has become thicker due to a violation of the outflow of lymph, then it is treated plantain decoction. Making a decoction is very simple. You need to pour one hundred grams of dried plantain leaves with a liter of water, bring to a boil, then simmer over low heat for another ten minutes. You need to take three tablespoons per day.

You can also mix crushed garlic with honey and take it three times a day.
For some liver diseases, people are treated with fasting, or a special diet, and an herb called milk thistle, which must be taken before each meal. After a month of treatment, the liver is cleansed and the signs of the disease disappear.

The worst thing is when this problem is congenital, then treatment is required constantly.
Congenital thickening can be treated with kombucha. Before applying the compress, you need to steam your feet, then treat each nail with kombucha for 8-12 hours.

At the initial stage of onychogryphosis, the steamed nail plate is treated lavender oil. This treatment is good for prevention (until the nail becomes thick). If the nail plate on your toes has already hardened and taken on a sharp shape, it is better to consult a doctor.

Gives a good effect aloe leaf compress.

A congenital disease does not mean that a person has this shape and color of nails. Usually they become thicker due to a lack of nutrients or some problems with the internal organs. Therefore, you must first identify and eliminate the cause. Treatment with folk remedies is good, but not always effective.

Diagnosis and treatment of thickened nails

Before starting treatment, it is necessary to identify exact reason, and not guess it, self-medicating and wasting time in vain.

To do this, you need to contact a dermatologist and get a referral from him for the appropriate tests. After passing all the tests, when the reason becomes known. You may have to change your doctor. A thick nail, or rather a small piece of it, is taken for analysis.
Thickening of the nails, which appears due to fungus, lymphostasis, and lack of essential vitamins, can be treated with folk remedies. But if the thickening occurs due to liver disease, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, diseases of the nervous system, it is better to treat them using the methods prescribed by the doctor.