The bacteria that cause athlete's foot and toenail fungus are closely related. An infection in one area can spread to the other through cracked skin, an injury or open wound. Athlete's foot is characterized by a red, itching and sometimes burning sensation on the feet, especially around and between the toes. Toenail fungus may begin as a small white spot under the nail and then spread to become thick, brown and hard. Both conditions are difficult to cure and can return after they appear cured. Always check with your physician before treating any medical condition with a home remedy.
Apple Cider Vingegar
The organisms that cause athlete's foot and toenail fungus struggle to live in a very acidic environment. That's one reason many people use an apple cider vinegar home remedy. Foot baths for 30 minutes, three times a day, in a solution of 1/2 vinegar and 1/2 water may slow down fungal growth, relieve itching and soften the hard nails. Another home remedy for nail fungus involves applying apple cider vinegar through an eyedropper directly to the base of the affected nails every day. Always ask your health care provider whether you should use a home remedy for your fungus problem.
Tea Tree Oil
A common home remedy for athlete's foot and toenail fungus is a daily application of tea tree oil, or Melaleuca alternifolia. The oil's antifungal and antibacterial properties help kill the similar types of fungi that cause athlete's foot and toe nail fungus. Tea tree oil is safe to apply directly to the affected skin or nail area each day, but shouldn't be taken internally, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Check with your medical provider before using tea tree oil as a remedy for athlete's foot or toe nail fungus.
Antifungal Creams and Ointments
As part of your athlete's foot and toe nail fungus treatment, you can choose among several chemical compounds that don't require a doctor's visit or prescription. Some over-the-counter medication are specially designed to attack bacterial fungi. These include fatty acids, miconazole nitrate and tolnaftate and are usually sold in cream or ointment form at your local pharmacy. For several weeks, you apply the cream or ointment topically to the affected area and let it seep into your skin. Always let your health care provider know if you're using a non-prescription cream or ointment for a fungal infection.
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