Knowing the Human Toe Claw up Close

Nature endowed human with fingernails and toenails for the deficiency of what the animal world usually have – the claw. The nail’s flat and hard built is essential for gripping and sensitivity as a support to the tips of the toes and fingers. The toenails, in particular are tougher and harder than the fingernails. This is basically so it can protect the toes from anything that may cause damage to it.

The whole of the toenails are essentially made of the protein known as keratin, the same cells that make up our hair. These keratin cells are manufactured on the nail’s matrix which can be found on the nail’s base plate known as the proximal fold. The thickness and shape of the nail is determined by the nail’s matrix. The cuticle is responsible for warding off harmful substances and external forces that may infect the nail matrix. The lunula is that part of the nail that is lighter in color and is shaped like a half-moon. It extends to the nail bed or the skin underneath the nail plate from the nail root. Every month, the toenail is expected to grow at an average of 3 millimeter. If the whole of the toenail is damaged or adversely removed, it will take more than a year to re-grow it.

To keep the toenail healthy, it should be regularly cleaned and trimmed. To avoid any ingrown nail, which is very painful make it a point to cut the nail straight across. If you are having difficulty cutting your thick toenail, try to soak it first in lukewarm water and salt for about 10 minutes. Apply a generous amount of lotion on the toes after soaking it to soften up the nails before you trim them. Make sure that the tools you use to you’re your nails are properly sanitized. Be particular with these especially on salons. Choose footwear well. Wear shoes that have enough space to even wiggle your toes.

The most common toenail problem is ingrown toenails. It can occur when the nails are constricted by tight-fitting shoes or if the nails are not properly cut. Ingrown nails tend to poke through the side curves of the nail’s lateral folds. Do not try to treat your ingrown yourself. Consult a specialist immediately. Inappropriate administration of ingrown nail removal can lead to serious infections.

Toenail infections are usually fungal in nature with yeast and dermatophytes as the most common. These fungal infections can be treated by applying topical antifungal gels creams or gels usually accompanied by a prescribed oral medication.

Bacterial infection on toenail is also possible and it is characterized by pain, swelling and redness on the fold of the skin. This kind of toenail infection is usually a result of overexposure to harmful substances or even water. Bacterial toenail infection can also be the result of trauma or injury to the toe.

It is important to always protect the toe and its nails sine the toenails may be the forerunner of various health infirmities including disorders on the connective tissue, kidney ailments, psoriasis, malnourishment, or reaction to drug. It there a change in the shape or color of the toenails, set an appointment with your doctor immediately.