Toenail fungus is often easy to spot. It causes a discoloration underneath the toenail in some cases, which may appear as yellow streaks. Your nails may be brittle or crumbly, and the nails in some people thicken, depending on the type of fungus attacking the nail. Vinegar isn't a surefire cure for all cases of toe fungus, but many people have been able to cure the condition themselves with simple at-home treatments.
Types
There are three common fungi that infection your toes. Dermatophytes are a fungus that develops on the skin, hair and your nails. Many people who experience this type of toe fungus also suffer from athlete's foot, which causes the fungus to develop. This fungus also accounts for about 90 percent of toe fungus, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Yeast is another type of fungus that usually results from other influences, such as sickness or antibiotic use. Mold can also grow on your skin and nails.
Risks
Some risks are associated with fungal infections, although, in most cases, these can be minor. One of the primary risks of toe fungus is pain in the toe and on the nail, which can be caused by several things, including increased pressure on the nail and inflamed or sensitive skin. This can make it harder to walk without pain. You may also experience reduced circulation in the toes and/or foot.
Potential
Vinegar is an acidic fluid that has anti-bacterial properties. While this does not mean that vinegar also has anti-fungal properties---in fact, MayoClinic.com reports that there is no direct evidence that vinegar can kill the fungus of the toe---it is nonetheless used by some people to treat toe fungus, and MayoClinic.com lists it as a potential home remedy.
Treatment
According to MayoClinic.com, you should begin by soaking your feet in a mixture of one part vinegar to two parts warm water. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse your feet and pat dry. You can apply this treatment every day until the toe fungus goes away, but if you develop irritated skin from the vinegar use, cut back to two or three times a week.
Considerations
According to UMHS, you should always wear dry cotton socks and change them multiple times throughout the day, if necessary. Ensure that your footwear breathes and allows moisture to escape. Wear roomy shoes in order to avoid injury to the tips of the toes, which can cause recurrence of fungal nail infections, notes UMHS. It also helps to quit smoking.
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