Darrick Robles Nail fungus affects young and old and is perceived as an unpleasant problem by many patients. The fungal attack causes whitish to gray changes in the nails and makes them porous and brittle. Although the infection is primarily an optical problem for many of those affected, treatment should be sought. With consistent therapeutic measures and a few tips and tricks, you can put an end to the annoying fungal growth.
Definition
Nail fungus (also called onychomycosis) refers to a chronic progressive fungal infection of the fingernails or toenails. The disease does not go away on its own. It requires a so-called “antifungal” therapy, which is directed against fungal growth.
symptoms
The nails change their appearance and become whitish, gray or yellow. In addition, they become porous and eventually crumble off. The affected nail can hurt and even fall out. Sometimes several nails are affected at the same time.
causes
The fungi are mostly so-called dermatophytes. Immunocompromised people with, for example, circulatory disorders, metabolic diseases or toe deformities are particularly at risk of contracting nail fungus. Tight, uncomfortable shoes or poor hygiene can also be risk factors.
risk of infection
Infection can occur directly from person to person. There is also the possibility of infection through shared areas. Most infections come from infected family members in the home environment. The mushrooms thrive in a warm and humid environment, such as a swimming pool. It is worth bringing your own slippers here.
You can also protect yourself by wearing comfortable street shoes and paying attention to regular foot hygiene. Socks, towels and shoes should not be shared and should always be washed at temperatures above 60 degrees.
duration of illness
A fungal nail infection can persist for a few weeks to months. The consistent therapy requires a lot of “patience and spit”, but usually shows good results.
Doctor’s consultation
A diagnosis can often be made simply by describing the symptoms. The doctor will then look at the nail to rule out other diseases if necessary and to assess the spread of the fungus. Based on these findings, he will suggest a therapy for you.
In rare cases, the fungal treatment is not crowned with success in the long term. Then the doctor can take a sample of the nail and examine it under a microscope. In addition, he can draw conclusions about the type of fungus by means of a genetic test. In this way, the therapy can be adjusted if necessary.
therapy
Nail fungus should be treated in any case, otherwise the fungus will spread further. Antifungal nail polish, which is applied to the affected nail over a certain period of time, is a suitable therapy. There are also medications available in tablet form to treat fungus. These can be taken in addition if the infestation is very severe.
You should also make sure that you wash your socks, towels and bed linen at temperatures above 60 degrees and that you wear well-fitting, comfortable shoes. At best, change your shoes regularly and wear them as little as possible.
The infected nail material should be removed regularly. This works very well with the help of a milling machine or chemical agents such as urea. Laser therapy has also been available for a few years: the laser beams destroy the fungus without damaging the nail too much. The laser treatment is not paid for by health insurance companies and the success of this therapy is discussed in specialist circles. Surgical nail removal is no longer recommended.
Some home remedies for treatment are mentioned in the literature. These can have a supporting effect on antifungal therapy.
How can Med-Healths help?
You can always contact Med-Healths as soon as you notice any changes in your nails. The best way is to send a photo of the affected nail to your doctor via the Med-Healths app. He can help you diagnose nail fungus. In addition, he can write you a prescription for an antifungal drug and explain how to use the medication. He can also advise you during the treatment and answer questions.
