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Symptoms and treatment of toenail fungus

01 Jul 18

Symptoms and treatment of toenail fungus

Fungi are widespread in the environment, but damage to human nails and skin develops only under favorable conditions. As we age, the acidic pH of the skin may change to alkaline, which is favorable for fungal growth. Infection usually occurs through contact; if personal hygiene standards are not followed, the source of infection can be a sick person or common objects. Infection can occur in public places: swimming pools, baths, gyms. And also in everyday life with the general use of slippers, socks, manicure accessories, towels and washcloths.

Predisposing factors to infection with onychomycosis are:

  • decreased immunity;
  • poor circulation in the legs, including when wearing tight shoes;
  • increased sweating;
  • diabetes;
  • obesity;
  • mechanical nail injuries;
  • deformations and anatomical features of the feet.
  • Signs of toenail fungus

    Nail fungus is a very persistent infection, the initial stage of the disease is expressed by:

  • changes in the color of the nail plate, loss of shine;
  • increased fragility;
  • itching and irritation of the skin around the affected nail;
  • pain at the site of the lesion, especially when wearing tight shoes;
  • detaching part of the nail from the nail bed.
  • As it progresses and the entire nail plate is involved in the process, new symptoms appear: the nail becomes significantly thicker and deformed.

    Depending on the degree of damage to the nail, three types of onychomycosis are distinguished:

    1. Normotrophic – manifested by a distortion of the nail color from white to dark green. The color changes initially in spots or stripes and gradually covers the entire surface of the nail, while the thickness of the nail plate does not change and the shine remains.
    2. Hypertrophic - expressed by a change in color, loss of shine and severe thickening and deformation of the nail. The nail is very peeling and partially destroyed;
    3. Atrophic - reflected by a change in color, thinning and subsequent rejection of the affected area.
    4. Which doctor treats fungus?

      You can determine the infection yourself, but only a doctor can confirm the diagnosis. If you notice a change in nail color or increased brittleness, you should consult a dermatologist. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor prescribes a diagnostic microscopic or cultural examination. A part of the affected nail is taken for analysis or nearby tissue is scraped. Timely detection of nail fungus greatly facilitates treatment and prevents the development of complications. Advanced onychomycosis is dangerous, as it can cause mycotic eczema, aspergillosis, decreased immunity, and infection of all nails, skin and other organs.

      Treatment of toenail fungus

      The doctor determines how to treat onychomycosis depending on the degree of change in the nail plate, the clinical form, the degree of hyperkeratosis and the length of the affected area. For treatment, local agents (ointments, drops, sprays, varnishes) and general effects (antimycotic drugs) are used.

      As a rule, for minor changes in the nail, topical treatment drugs are used. Before treatment with antifungal solutions, ointments, or varnishes, the affected area of ​​the nail should be removed surgically or using keratolytic drugs. This is necessary for better penetration of the antifungal medicine deep into the damaged tissues, which allows you to get rid of the fungus much faster.

      Keratolytic preparations promote softening of the nail and its easy and painless removal; they are available in the form of patches, which contain urea or salicylic acid:

    5. ureaplast;
    6. urea patch with quinosol;
    7. quinosolo-salicylic patch;
    8. onychoplast;
    9. quinosolo-dimexide patch;
    10. mycospor (combined drug).
    11. Before gluing the patch, it is necessary to scrape off the top layer of the nail, then apply the medicinal mass and seal it with an adhesive plaster, change the bandage every 1-2 days. Before changing, the affected areas of the nail are removed with scissors and antifungal agents are applied. Of the listed drugs, the most effective remedy is mycospor, since it contains urea and the antifungal drug bifonazole. Mycospor is applied daily at night for 3 weeks.

      Antifungal varnishes and solutions for topical use:

    12. Loceryl - varnish is applied once a week, the duration of the treatment course extends from 6 to 12 months;
    13. Batrafen is applied every other day during the first month of use, 2 times a week in the second month, and 1 time per week during subsequent treatment lasting up to six months;
    14. Mikozan is used 2 times a day for about a month.
    15. Antifungal creams, ointments and drops:

    16. based on ketoconazole - nizoral cream;
    17. clotrimazole derivatives – antifungol (1% cream), canesten (in the form of cream, ointments, drops), clotrimazole-acri (1% ointment);
    18. based on mikanazole – daktarin (2% cream);
    19. oxycanazole derivatives – mifungar (1% cream);
    20. based on terbinafine - lamizml (1% cream), exifin cream;
    21. chlornitrophenol derivatives – nitrofungin (1% solution), nichologin, nichlorophenan;
    22. based on naftifine - exoderil (1% cream or solution).
    23. Combined ointments with antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects:

      It is advisable to apply ointments, creams and drops to the open nail bed 2-3 times a day until the nail is completely restored. These drugs are active against the vast majority of pathogens, but are not able to penetrate the entire depth of the nail plate.

      Local antiseptics - a solution of iodine, dyes, quinosol, organic acids are often used in the treatment of nail fungus, when it is impossible to use other means. The main advantage is that the antiseptic is inexpensive and widely available. Local antiseptics, such as iodine, are used to treat the affected nail up to three times a day for one month. When applying the solution, it is advisable not to touch the surrounding skin to avoid burns. The sensation of burning and tingling helps to recognize the beginning of the effect.

      If local treatment is ineffective, antimycotic tablets are additionally prescribed:

    24. fluconazole (Diflucan) is prescribed at a dose of 150 mg once a week for 3 months, sometimes the course of treatment lasts up to 1 year;
    25. ketoconazole is taken 1 tablet with meals, the course lasts 6-12 months;
    26. Terbinafine (Lamisil) is prescribed at a dose of 250 mg/day for 3 months. Pulse therapy has the best effect - tablets are taken for 10 days, then an interval of 10 days, the course of treatment is 3 months;
    27. itraconazole is prescribed 200 mg for 3 months. Pulse therapy - the drug is used at a dose of 400 mg per day for a week, then a break for 21 days, 3-4 courses are repeated.
    28. Correctly selected combination therapy helps to quickly cure advanced onychomycosis. Also, combined treatment using local and general therapy is prescribed for lesions of more than three nails, for persons over 50 years of age and with slow nail growth. The use of combination therapy can significantly reduce the duration of treatment.

      Treatment of fungus with folk remedies

      To prepare antifungal agents at home, you can use apple cider vinegar and herbal infusions:

      • Mix vegetable oil and apple cider vinegar in equal parts, moisten a cotton pad in the resulting solution, and apply to the affected nail for 4 hours; for convenience, you can secure the bandage with an adhesive plaster. Carry out the procedure daily for a month;
      • To treat an advanced process, a mixture of 9% vinegar with celandine helps; the resulting composition should be infused for a month. Then 50 g of salt is added to it. The resulting product is used for 5-10 minute foot baths before bedtime. It is important not to dry your feet after the bath, but to let them dry on their own;
      • To treat the affected nail, you can use an alcohol solution of propolis, juice or pulp of onion and garlic. A mixture of lavender and tea tree oils also works well;
      • herbal decoction for foot baths: mix oak bark, calendula, horsetail, and verbena in equal parts. Pour boiling water over 50 g of the resulting mixture and keep in a water bath for about 15 minutes.
      • Nail fungus can be easily avoided by maintaining personal hygiene:

      • It is necessary to wash your feet daily with antiseptic agents.
      • Dry your feet with a personal towel.
      • Use pumice to slough away old skin, which is a good environment for fungal growth.
      • Use medications to reduce foot sweating.
      • Change socks, stockings and tights daily.
      • Wear loose, comfortable shoes. Do not wear wet shoes.
      • Wear shoes when visiting swimming pools and showers.
      • Do not use other people's shoes, slippers, socks, towels, or manicure accessories.
      • Use pharmacological preparations for protection before visiting beaches, swimming pools, saunas.
      • Symptoms and stages of toenail fungus

        Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is the most common disease in which nails turn yellow, become brittle and thick, and become covered with cracks. In the initial stages, the symptoms of nail fungus are barely noticeable. Treatment of the disease is difficult due to disruption of the cellular component of immunity. The disease progresses slowly, progresses without proper treatment and can accompany the patient throughout his life.

        More often, nail fungus is detected in men and people with weakened immune systems. Patients with diabetes mellitus, obesity, people with vascular pathology and skin diseases are susceptible to the disease. If your feet sweat a lot, there is a greater chance of fungal infections on the skin of your feet and toenails.

        The fungus can get on the nail plates from clothes, shoes, manicure sets, carpets, and floors. It gets onto the nails through microcracks in the skin and through the nail bed. There is a lot of it where it is warm and humid: in showers, baths, locker rooms and swimming pools. In healthy people, the disease rarely develops.

        Rice. 1. The photo shows fungus on the nails and skin of the feet.

        Onychomycosis is caused by three types of fungi (one at a time or in combination). Most cases of the disease are caused by fungi of the species Trichophyton rubrum . Much less common are Trichophyton interdigitale , Epidermophyton floccosum and Microsporum and Aspergillus .

      • Yeast fungi of the species Candida albicans always parasitize the skin and nails. Taking antibiotics, birth control, or having a weakened immune system can cause a yeast infection.
      • Non-dermatophyte molds are more likely to cause disease in countries with tropical climates.
      • Nedermatophyte soil fungi live in the soil and cause onychomycosis in only some people. They are not transmitted from person to person.
      • Rice. 2. In the photo, the fungus Trichophyton rubrum (red trichophyton) is the main culprit of onychomycosis (view under a microscope and growth of colonies on a nutrient medium).

        What is the source of infection

      • Diseases in your family and friends can become a source of pathogens for you too.

      • The fungus is transmitted within a family through the use of shared towels, slippers, bed linen, etc.

      • Fungus on the hands can become a source of disease on the nails and skin of the feet.
      • The fungus lives in large quantities in bathhouses, showers and swimming pools.
      • The source of infection can be the patient’s clothes and shoes, manicure sets, carpets and floors.
      • What increases the risk of disease

      • Foot skin fungus.
      • Decreased immunity.
      • Family members suffering from fungal infection.
      • Elderly age.
      • Diabetes.
      • Presence of microtraumas and hangnails.
      • Increased sweating of the feet.
      • Inconvenient and poor quality shoes.
      • The habit of walking barefoot in public places.
      • Living and working in a humid climate.
      • Long-term wearing of artificial nails.
      • Rice. 3. The photo shows advanced toenail fungus.

        What influences the development and progression of onychomycosis

        • General health.
        • Susceptibility to infection.
        • Humidity level and thermal background.
        • Type of nail plate (toe nails grow more slowly).
        • Symptoms of toenail fungus

          Rice. 4. The photo shows different stages of toenail fungus.

          color of the nail changes . It becomes opaque. A gap appears between it and its bed, in which the fungi themselves are located.

          The nail is painted in one of the following colors: whitish-grayish, yellow, green and brown, up to black. Yellow oblong stripes are visible inside and under the nail. Spots of different shades.

          Above the affected nail bed, the nail thickens and becomes deformed . Horny masses grow gradually, preventing the penetration of drugs.

          At first, there is increased fragility and then, when the fungus affects the entire nail plate, it begins to crumble and collapse . During processing, a large amount of “garbage” , consisting of destroyed fragments and epidermis. There is often damage to the surrounding skin.

          Rice. 5. The photo shows different stages of toenail fungus.

          Rice. 6. The photo shows different stages of toenail fungus.

          Rice. 7. Forms of onychomycosis.

        • Distal subungual onychomycosis.
        • Lateral onychomycosis.
        • White superficial onychomycosis.
        • Proximal subungual onychomycosis.
        • Total dystrophic onychomycosis.
        • Distal subungual and lateral onychomycosis

          This form of the disease is the most common. Up to 90% of cases are caused by fungi of the genus Trichophyton rubrum. Infection of the nail plate begins at the free edge on the side of the affected skin of the foot. The nail bed is affected first. The appearance of the lesion resembles a splinter or a yellowish stain. As the disease progresses, the nail thickens and may split or separate from the skin. Distal subungual onychomycosis is difficult to treat. Wearing shoes causes discomfort.

          Rice. 8. The photo shows toenail fungus - distal subungual and lateral onychomycosis.

          White superficial onychomycosis

          The second most common form of onychomycosis. In 90% of cases, the disease is caused by a fungus of the genus Trichophyton interdigitale, which affects only the top layer of the nail plate, which never thickens or separates from the skin. Over time, its entire surface becomes loose, like chalk powder. Healing occurs quickly.

          Rice. 9. In the photo there is nail fungus - white superficial onychomycosis.

          Proximal subungual onychomycosis

          Rice. 10. In the photo there is nail fungus - proximal subungual onychomycosis.

          This form of onychomycosis is rare. Red trichophyton spreads throughout the body through the blood and lymphatic tract. This is evidenced by damage to the nail from the posterior area (proximally) and the detection of the pathogen in the lymph nodes of the groin area and the secretion of the prostate gland. The disease is often registered in HIV-infected people. The lesion begins with the skin in the nail fold area, which thickens. Next, the process involves the nail plate, which acquires a white, opaque color.

          Total dystrophic onychomycosis

          This form of the disease is a consequence of the progression of one or a combination of the types of onychomycosis described above. The nail plate is partially or completely destroyed.

          Rice. 11. In the photo there is toenail fungus - total dystrophic onychomycosis.

          Diseases with similar symptoms

          Of all infectious diseases, onychomycosis occurs in 50% of cases. Similar symptoms occur in the following diseases:

          Rice. 12. In the photo, onychia pseudomonas. The cause of the disease is Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

          Rice. 13. The photo shows the appearance of the nail after the injury.

          Rice. 14. In the photo is onychoschisis. The disease is characterized by splitting of the nail plates.

          Rice. 15. The photo shows a lesion due to psoriasis.

          Diagnosis of nail fungus

          To obtain information about what causes certain changes, you need to consult a dermatologist who will organize the procedure for diagnosing the disease. A scraping from the affected part will be sent to the laboratory to determine the causes of the disease.

          Microscopy will reveal the presence of a fungus, and culture on a nutrient medium will allow you to isolate a pure culture of the pathogen and determine sensitivity to antifungal drugs.

          Rice. 16. The photo shows the collection of material for laboratory research.

          Rice. 17. In the photo, the fungus Trichophyton rubrum (red trichophyton) is the main culprit of onychomycosis (view under a microscope).

          Rice. 18. The photo shows Candida mushrooms (growth on a nutrient medium).

          Before starting treatment, it is necessary to identify the type of infection.

          Rice. 19. At the slightest suspicion of a disease, it is necessary to consult a doctor as soon as possible, who will diagnose the disease and prescribe adequate treatment. Do not self-medicate. After all, you can pass the disease on to your family and friends.

          Toenail fungus is easier to prevent. Check your feet and toenails frequently. Early treatment will help to improve the condition faster, reduce the feeling of discomfort and eliminate the cosmetic effect.

          Toenail fungus

          Fungus of the nail plates on the toes (onychomycosis of the feet) is an infectious disease manifested in damage to the nails by dermatomycetes, mold or yeast-like fungi. According to statistics, the prevalence of this disease in the population reaches 10%.

          The risk of contracting onychomycosis of the legs directly depends on the social and climatic conditions of a person’s residence, his gender, age, profession, and the presence or absence of other diseases. One way or another, due to its high contagiousness and ability to significantly worsen the quality of the patient’s daily life, this pathology requires timely detection and competent, comprehensive treatment.

          Depending on the symptomatic manifestations, there are three types of onychomycosis of the legs:

          Hypertrophic damage to the nails is characterized by noticeable thickening and deformation of the nail plates, loss of shine and the appearance of a kind of “corrosion” at their edges. The clinical picture of the disease can be supplemented by the appearance of pain and the development of onychogryphosis (a pathology in which the nails take on the appearance of bird's claws).

          With onychomycosis of the normotrophic type, yellow or white stripes and spots appear on the nail plates. At the same time, the nails retain their configuration, shine and thickness. With atrophic onychomycosis, the nail plate quickly separates from the nail bed, becomes dull and acquires a gray-brown color. The exposed skin area becomes covered with loose hyperkeratotic layers.

          Clinical signs of toenail fungus form the basis of another classification of onychomycosis, used mainly by foreign doctors. Based on this typology, 4 forms of the disease can be distinguished:

        • distal (damage to the free edge of the nail);
        • proximal (damage to the posterior nail fold);
        • lateral (damage to the nail from the sides);
        • total (damage to the entire nail plate).
        • The severity of onychomycosis manifestations must be taken into account when drawing up a therapeutic program.

          The diagnosis of “onychomycosis of the legs” is made based on the results of a visual medical examination, PCR test, microscopic and cultural studies. Carrying out the above tests allows us to obtain a conclusion not only about the presence of a fungal infection, but also about the type of pathogen.

          Now a few words about how to cure toenail fungus in the shortest possible time. The etiotropic treatment program for onychomycosis involves the use of local and systemic medications. The most effective means for local treatment of fungus on the toenail plates are:

        • antifungal keratolytic ointments, gels and creams;
        • specialized plasters for mechanical removal of affected nails;
        • antifungal varnishes based on ciclopirox, amorolfine or mixtures of salicylic, benzoic, lactic acid and resorcinol.
        • Nowadays, systemic therapy for nail fungus seems to be the most relevant. In recent years, a number of general antimycotic drugs have been developed that can increase the effectiveness of treatment of onychomycosis by up to 90%.

          Medicines for toenail fungus

          The most effective antimycotic varnishes are considered to be Lotseril and Batrafen . The main distinguishing feature of these products is their ability to destroy pathogens in the deep layers of the nail and penetrate the nail bed. Antifungal creams and ointments include Lamisil, Terbizil, Fungoterbin, Terbix and other drugs for toenail fungus containing terbinafine. The listed products are applied daily to the affected nail plates and gently rubbed until completely absorbed. The duration of treatment for onychomycosis with ointments and creams can vary between 2-6 weeks. The procedure for using local antifungal agents should be previously agreed upon with a dermatologist; he will also be able to answer the question “how to treat foot fungus.”

          The safest and most effective systemic drugs used to treat onychomycosis of the legs include:

        • terbinafine (Lamisil, Tigal-sanovel, Mikoterbin, Termicon, Terbizil, Fungoterbin, Terbinox, Terbifin, Onychon, Binafin, Medofloran, Bramisil, Lamican, Tsidokan, Atifin, Exifin);
        • griseofulvin;
        • itraconazole (Orungal, Teknazol, Itramikol, Irunin, Rumikoz, Orungamin, Itrazol, Miconihol, Kanditral, Orunit, Kanazol);

        ketoconazole (Vetozoral, Mycozoral, Oronazole, Brizoral, Funginok, Nizoral, Fungistab);

      • fluconazole (Diflucan, Mikosist, Diflazon, Nofung, Mikomax, Mikoflucan, Procanazole, Flucoside, Flucostat).
      • The selection of systemic drugs is carried out taking into account the severity of the disease and the presence or absence of contraindications to their use in the patient.

        Prevention of toenail fungus

        The main measures aimed at preventing the development of onychomycosis of the legs are:

      • avoiding mechanical trauma to the nail plates;
      • refusal to wear rough, tight and ill-fitting shoes;
      • careful processing of pedicure instruments;
      • use of individual shoes when visiting baths, saunas and swimming pools;
      • monitoring the health status of pets, timely treatment of identified pathologies;
      • excluding cases of using toiletries, clothing, towels and shoes belonging to other people;
      • timely detection and treatment of diseases;
      • carrying out activities aimed at strengthening the body's immune forces.
      • It is important to understand that self-treatment of onychomycosis often not only fails to achieve the expected results, but also significantly complicates the course of the disease. Therefore, before using any medications or folk remedies for fungus, you should coordinate the treatment program with an experienced dermatologist.

        It will also be very useful to watch a video with Elena Malysheva about nail fungus.

        Yeast fungus on toenails - diagnosis and treatment

        Yeast fungus on the legs develops against the background of infection by Candida fungi. There are more than ten species of this pathogenic microorganism. They live on the skin of almost everyone, but begin to actively reproduce only under suitable conditions. This is the only type of fungus that affects women more often than men. Often found on fingernails and toenails.

        How does yeast fungus appear on nails?

        There is a thin elastic film at the base of the nail. This cuticle is needed to protect the matrix from negative influences. When infected with yeast, this part changes. The skin disappears or changes its appearance. First, the nail fold where inflammation occurs is affected. It becomes deformed and thickens. Over time, when pressed, white content appears from it.

        The fungal infection begins to spread quickly. The main sign of damage is separation of the dermis in the area of ​​the nail hole. The nail becomes yellow or dull. The toenail changes:

      • The roller turns red and becomes enlarged;
      • A feeling of pain appears;
      • Upon examination, scales are found.
      • Due to yeast fungus, the plate weakens so much that it begins to crumble. As the disease progresses, pus is released. At some intervals the disease may subside, then return again. The nail stops shining and becomes lumpy. Shoes begin to cause discomfort.

        Prerequisites for the development of disease on toenails

        Yeast fungus on the toenails occurs when the immune system is weakened. HIV carriers and people taking serious medications are often susceptible to it. The latter lead to an imbalance of natural microflora, so fungi begin to multiply quickly. Reasons include:

      • Excess body weight;
      • Increased sweating;
      • Uncomfortable or old shoes;
      • High blood sugar.

      Not only toenails, but also skin can be affected. Cracks, wounds between the fingers, and erosions appear. During normal functioning of the body, the acid-base balance of the skin protects from the spread of Candida.

      With improper foot care, the acidic environment disappears, and the pH of the skin begins to approach neutral values. Against this background, the fungus receives ideal conditions for further adaptation and development.

      First, a small area is affected, the edge of one nail. Gradually, the source of inflammation grows and spreads to other toes. The deeper the fungus penetrates inside, the more difficult it will be to get rid of it.

      Diagnostic measures

      Yeast fungus on nails is easy to detect in the laboratory. The specialist must:

      1. Make a scraping from the nail plate;
      2. Carry out a culture to determine the type of fungus;
      3. Take general tests to identify the spread of the disease.

      The danger of yeast fungus is that it spreads from the nails to any part of the body. First the mucous membranes suffer, then the dermis. This species differs from other types in the absence of mycelium. Diagnosed by culture in a prepared medium. It actively reproduces in it. The results can reveal:

      In differential diagnosis, the doctor must rule out malnutrition of the nail plate, psoriasis, and lichen planus.

      Impact uses a local or systemic approach. Local treatment of yeast fungus on toenails is relevant if:

    29. The lesion is at an early stage;
    30. Several nails are affected;
    31. There are no significant changes in the shape of the nail;
    32. There are contraindications to systemic exposure.
    33. Azoles are used for local effects. They act on the enzyme structure of yeast fungi. Their active ingredients cause growth retardation and cell destruction. Representatives of this group:

      Alkylamines, derivatives of hydroxylyridone, have a local effect. They disrupt the cell membrane, which leads to the death of the fungus.

      Systemic exposure includes taking pills. With this treatment, yeast fungus disappears not only from the toenails, but also from other systems. The drugs have a more pronounced and long-lasting effect. Indications for systemic medications are:

    34. Severe damage to the nail and its destruction;
    35. The presence of several types of spores at once;
    36. Lack of proper effect from local therapy.
    37. The dose is selected exclusively by the doctor. It depends on the age and weight of the person. Many drugs should not be taken for a long time. Ketoconazole has many side effects, so it is only used for a few days. Please note that if the nail plate is damaged on the toes, treatment will take longer than if pathology develops on the hands. Often prescribed:

      During systemic therapy, it is necessary to diversify the diet with foods that contain a large number of beneficial bacteria. These include bio-yogurt, kefir, cottage cheese.

      Traditional medicine

      Yeast fungus can be cured using traditional medicine. They are used independently or as a complement to traditional methods:

    38. Lemon juice. Squeeze one lemon and pour a glass of hot water. After cooling, treat the affected areas with the decoction.
    39. Elecampane root and burdock leaves. Brew with boiling water. You can make decoction baths or compresses.
    40. Iodine solution. They treat the affected areas. Manipulations are carried out for 20 days, twice a day.
    41. Propolis. A cotton swab is immersed in the aqueous or alcoholic extract. Then it is applied to the sore nail.
    42. If your feet sweat heavily, doctors recommend giving preference to breathable materials and carefully maintaining personal hygiene. Then the likelihood of irritation with toenail fungus decreases.

      All the symptoms of fungus on the feet and nails

      A fungus is an unpleasant infectious disease that is transmitted from person to person, and both women and men can get it. Summer is ahead - a wonderful time, which brings not only relaxation and light T-shirts, but also increased sweating, as well as the most exposed surfaces of the legs, which are excellent predisposing factors for the spread of various types of infections, including fungal ones. Symptoms of fungus on the feet can be pronounced or, conversely, hidden.

      The places where you can catch this type of “parasite” are usually distinguished by the fact that there you walk barefoot or take off your shoes. These, of course, include public baths and saunas, swimming pools, public showers, changing rooms in gyms, as well as beauty salons where they do the most common pedicure.

      No matter how sad it may sound, even your favorite sea or river beach, where you just want to pamper your feet with a sand massage, can become a place where fungal infections accumulate.

      Just think how many people like you have already run across the same sand.

      By the way, even when putting on “guest” slippers, you never know whether they have undergone the necessary treatment measures against infections before they were offered to you as house shoes.

      Most often, the fungus makes itself felt very quickly; you immediately understand that “something” is wrong when you notice yellowed or darkened toenails, which can also peel.

      By the way, fungal infections are very complex diseases that are not so easy to remove, especially in advanced forms. That is why, as soon as you notice that “something” is happening, it is better to immediately contact a specialist, because only the early stages of this disease are most easily and quickly treatable.

      As already mentioned, fungus is difficult to cure. And this is natural, think about it, because mushrooms are one of the few organisms that have come to us since time immemorial, having survived all the cataclysms and changes on our planet.

      By the way, until relatively recently, the main method of treating fungal diseases was the complete removal of the nail plate.

      This is a very painful procedure, which is also not the most effective, because in frequent cases a young nail grows back already affected by a fungal infection.

      After this, you’ll think again and definitely wear flip-flops on the beach, but not a trace will remain of the pleasure of going to the bathhouse or sauna. But not everything is so bad, of course, and modern medicine has come up with less painful treatment methods for this scourge.

      But still, before starting treatment, even if it is prescribed by a doctor, it is advisable to know how the symptoms of fungus on the feet and nails manifest themselves in order to protect yourself from wrong steps, and also to determine the changes occurring in your feet and nails as quickly as possible.

      Main symptoms and signs

      Most often, the fungus begins its action on the toenails, moving and developing further on the fingers and feet. Why nails? It's simple, the nail plate is full of keratin, which is an excellent substance and feed for fungal infections.

      The first symptoms of the appearance of fungus are changes in the color and shape of the nail plate; it can become yellow, red or brown, and its structure changes. A diseased nail is quite difficult to trim; it begins to crumble and crumble, and the nail plate begins to develop cracks and stripes. By the way, the color of an infected nail usually depends on the type of fungus, for example, yeast or mold.

      The nail usually begins to react with the infection, resulting in its keratinization, the nail plate becomes thicker, which prevents rapid treatment.

      By the way, the fungus will not stop halfway; it can cause delamination of the nail plate, permanent breaks, which can lead to complete loss of the nail.

      But that's not all. The fungus does not stop there and spreads to the fingers and feet, causing redness, itching and burning; in some advanced cases, blisters may appear that become inflamed, burst and leave serious ulcers and erosions.

      But even the most accurate descriptions of the symptoms of fungal diseases will not be able to indicate with 100% probability that it is exactly this or that fungus.

      As you know, there are many types of fungal diseases, but the symptoms remain similar or even almost the same. Therefore, the best solution would be to undergo a medical examination, where only in laboratory conditions, having examined a piece of the affected nail plate, will specialists be able to make their verdict.

      Yes, and it is desirable that the clinic be more or less serious, and the doctor is your acquaintance, since fungus is not something to joke about, although it is not fatal, it is very unpleasant, and even difficult to cure.

      It would be nice to know that often such changes in the nails indicate not only that you have contracted an infection, but also the possibility of other serious diseases. The appearance of fungus on the nails and feet can be caused by a decrease in the body’s immune function, changes in the balance or lack of vitamins, anemia, dysbiosis, and other diseases.

      That is why often the treatment of fungal infections does not end with just one antifungal ointment, but is accompanied by a whole range of drugs that have a beneficial effect on the immune system, restore the level of vitamins and minerals, and also improve other vital functions of the body.

      Before starting treatment, it is worth remembering that most ointments and tablets that are offered to us in commercials eliminate the main symptoms of toenail fungus, but do not cure it completely. That is why often, when it seems that the disease has already been defeated, it can return again, even with renewed vigor.

      To prevent this from happening, treatment must affect the entire body, which is why it is so important to take vitamins and complex medications throughout the course of treatment.

      Usually, when the case is not too advanced, it is possible to recover from the fungus in 2 months; in more complex situations, treatment can last up to six months. Follow the rules of hygiene and take preventive measures so that the fungus avoids your body.

      Why does toenail fungus appear, symptoms and treatment of onychomycosis

      Fungal diseases of the toenails are quite common in humans. In addition to the undesirable cosmetic effect, these infections can cause significant harm to the body, so onychomycosis must be treated. But to do this, you need to know as much as possible about this disease, especially since today scientists have identified a large number of types of pathogens.

      With onychomycosis, parasites grow in the structure of the nail tissue and in the skin around them. According to the generally accepted classification, spore microorganisms that can manifest themselves in humans are divided into three groups:

    43. yeast nail fungus, primarily Candida albicans;
    44. dermatophyte fungi (genus Trichophyton, Microsporum and Epidermophyton);
    45. mold species (genus Aspergillus, Alternaria and Fusarium).
    46. Acute or chronic onychomycosis is caused by each of them separately. It is also not uncommon to be infected with two or, less commonly, three of these species at the same time. During diagnosis, it is extremely important to accurately detect the pathogen, because each group of fungal diseases can be treated with different drugs that are not universal.

      The reasons for the development of infection can be associated both with the entry of the pathogen from the external environment and with the general condition of the patient’s body. Their knowledge will help you understand how to treat nail fungus.

      External sources of fungal spread include:

    47. Swimming pools, locker rooms, showers, baths are those public places where people walk barefoot. Therefore, when visiting such institutions, you should wear slippers for safety.
    48. The use of poorly disinfected instruments in beauty salons during pedicures, which can be generally dangerous for the body.
    49. No less dangerous are posed by other people’s files, scissors and other products used for personal hygiene.
    50. In the summer, closed shoes can pose a danger, as your feet will sweat a lot.
    51. In order not to treat onychomycosis of the nails, you should regularly take a bath or shower, since sweat and dirt act as a favorable environment for microbes.
    52. Some types of onychomycosis are transmitted from pets, but such pathogens are common mainly in hot countries.
    53. Other health problems also contribute to the development of the disease described:

    54. Weakened immune system.
    55. The presence of small wounds and cracks on the skin, dry tissue.
    56. A large number of burrs.
    57. Poor blood circulation in the nail tissue.
    58. Ingress of fungal pathogens from human skin. This method of infection is called autoinfection.
    59. Thus, there are many sources of infection with fungal diseases. These microorganisms are widely distributed throughout the world, so ailments such as nail fungus occur in many people. So knowing how to treat onychomycosis will never be superfluous.

      Symptoms and diagnosis

      The appearance of fungus on the feet does not mean the inevitable development of the disease. Onychomycosis develops only in people with a weakened immune system. But there are a lot of options for how toenail fungus manifests itself. In this case, you should pay attention to the following symptoms of nail fungus:

    60. compaction or reduction in the thickness of the stratum corneum;
    61. high fragility of the nail plate, its delamination;
    62. the presence of hangnails and calluses;
    63. unnatural color: white, yellowish or greenish shades;
    64. roughness of the surface of the nail plate;
    65. loss of natural shine;
    66. inflammation of the skin of the fingers, itching in the feet;
    67. cracked foot.
    68. By these signs you can find out how toenail fungus begins.

      Treatment of advanced toenail fungus is extremely difficult and lengthy. This is why the appearance of symptoms of onychomycosis cannot be ignored. If they are detected, you should immediately seek medical help.

      The main goal of diagnosing nail fungus is to accurately determine the causative agent of the infection. Many types of parasitic organisms are extremely difficult to identify, especially since external signs of the disease can easily be confused with metabolic disorders.

      Typically, onychomycosis is diagnosed in several stages, for which the following methods are used on how to recognize toenail fungus:

    69. study of clinical data;
    70. analysis of tissue particles under a microscope;
    71. cultural diagnostics;
    72. DNA research.
    73. During the examination of the patient at the first appointment, the doctor can diagnose the presence of damage to the nail plate, but without conducting accurate studies, it is not possible to understand what caused the disease. Laboratory tests are the only way to determine nail fungus.

      By examining the scraping under a microscope, the doctor can fairly accurately tell what toenail fungus looks like. The difficulty lies in determining the specific type of pathogen. Therefore, diagnostics do not stop at this stage.

      The exact fungal culture is determined by its cultivation in the laboratory. For this purpose, a nail fungus test is used based on a special Sabouraud nutrient medium. Usually, after three to five days of such a study, specialists are able to determine the specific type of pathogen. Also, using this method, you can check the susceptibility of parasites to drugs and outline the most effective course of treatment.

      Parasite DNA testing is the modern and most promising option for identifying nail fungus on the feet, reducing the time to obtain results to one or two days. However, such a nail fungus test can only effectively detect the yeast species.

      As already mentioned, certain categories of people are susceptible to onychomycosis to varying degrees. The following are the main factors that increase the likelihood of developing an infection:

    74. Reaching retirement age. Due to reduced blood circulation and deterioration of metabolism, this disease occurs much more often in older people than in other categories of the population. Delayed diagnosis also plays an important role in this, since pensioners, having discovered the symptoms of nail fungus and considering it a common sign of aging, do not always seek qualified help.
    75. Mechanical damage to nail tissue. Any injury impairs the supply of tissues with nutrients. As a result, at the site of the break or crack, a focus of infection will begin, which will then spread throughout the entire nail, which may even simply fly out.
    76. High blood sugar levels cause damage to the blood vessels in the foot. Therefore, the manifestation of onychomycosis is so common among diabetics, which is also extremely difficult for them to get rid of.
    77. For exactly the same reason, infection can be caused by diseases of the circulatory system, for example, Raynaud's syndrome or varicose veins.
    78. Since spores are most often able to reproduce both on the nail tissue and on the surface of the body, people affected by fungal skin infections are at risk of onychomycosis. An illness that was once defeated can arise again.
    79. The dangers of ignoring symptoms

      Many people do not seek medical help if signs of a fungal infection are detected, and only after some time have passed they try to cure an advanced fungus. This is due to the relatively mild course of the disease and the ability to hide cosmetic defects with socks or closed shoes.

      However, you should not ignore the first symptoms and treatment of the disease, otherwise there may be serious complications.

      If you are wondering why toenail fungus is dangerous, you should start with the fact that onychomycosis is contagious. An infected person will pose a threat to others.

      Certain restrictions are imposed on patients with fungal infections. A person with an old fungus, for example, will never be given a medical certificate of admission to the pool.

      As a parasitic disease, toenail fungus will weaken the patient's immunity, increasing the likelihood of other health problems. Trying to cure nail fungus at home can result in more serious problems.

      Old onychomycosis leads to serious consequences that should be feared:

    80. parasites can enter the circulatory system;
    81. lack of treatment for toenail fungus seriously weakens the immune system;
    82. spores intensify allergic reactions and cause exacerbation of chronic diseases;
    83. due to deterioration in general health, people are more likely to experience depression, insomnia, and so on.
    84. That is why the first signs of toenail fungus should be a reason to go to the clinic.

      Treatment of toenail fungus is based on two principles. Firstly, drugs mechanically destroy spores. Secondly, medications slow down the reactions of parasites, blocking their activity and reproduction. By the way, you should think carefully before deciding to treat nail fungus during pregnancy.

      In medicine, medications, folk remedies, laser treatment of nail fungus and medical pedicure are used.

      Pharmacy products are powerful. Many of them are specially selected for specific pathogens, which further enhances the effectiveness of treating nail fungus in children and adults. Of all the ways to quickly cure toenail fungus, it is best to use medications, the most popular of which are: Diflucan, Lamisil, Nizoral, Fungoterbin spray or ointment.

      To enhance the effect, a diet for nail fungus can help. It is prescribed by the attending physician.

      Often, independent control of parasites does not lead to success, because fungi tend to restore the spore structure. Therefore, it is most preferable, if the first signs of the disease are detected, to seek medical help. Only a doctor can confidently tell you how to quickly get rid of nail fungus.

      There are many folk options for curing toenail fungus. For example, essential oils, which serve as a natural antiseptic, help. The main way to treat nail onychomycosis at home is to apply a drop of the substance to the affected area, which is then sealed with a plaster.

      Vinegar, lemon juice, and mouth rinses also work well against toenail fungus. It is often recommended to treat toenail fungus at home with iodine or applying garlic. Your doctor will recommend which of these remedies is best to use.

      An effective method to get rid of nail fungus at home is a vodka-based mixture. To make it, you will need to mix 200 ml of alcohol, a teaspoon of lemon juice, and half a teaspoon of potassium permanganate. 50 ml of boiled water is added to the composition, then it should be placed in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. The resulting product should be wiped over the affected areas twice a day, in the morning and before bed, until the infection is completely destroyed. Such assistance has a restorative effect, although restoration of damaged tissue will take some time.

      All these ingredients are included in the main list of what nail fungus is afraid of. A dermatologist or mycologist will tell you how to remove the fungus most quickly.

      Relatively recently, laser technologies have been added to the main methods of getting rid of toenail fungus. The principle of treating nail fungus with a laser is the thermal effect of the beam on parasites. It creates a temperature of about 50 degrees, by the way, this is the answer to the question: at what temperature does the fungus die. At the same time, treatment of fungal diseases with short-term radiation does not have any effect on the human body.

      Complex laser treatment usually consists of four sessions, with an interval of one week between them. Competent specialists from medical centers providing this type of service know how to properly treat advanced toenail fungus using radiation. After laser therapy, about 85% of patients are completely cured. This is one of the most effective ways to fight nail fungus.

      You can use a medical pedicure for nail fungus in the early stages of the disease, this is also the main disadvantage of this method, besides, the treatment of onychomycosis with varnishes is quite long. Therapeutic pedicure for nail fungus involves the use of special compounds (Loceryl, Cyclopirox, Mikozan and others) that are applied to the damaged area. Many beauty salons provide this service. However, you can treat nail fungus at home using medical varnish.

      By the way, a specialist may know how to restore a nail after fungus.

      There are many ways to prevent fungal nail diseases:

    85. The most important thing is daily hygiene.
    86. In public places, swimming pools, bathhouses, locker rooms, you should wear slippers.
    87. Avoid wearing closed shoes in hot weather.
    88. To avoid fungal infection, you should not use other people’s personal hygiene products: nail files, scissors, towels, and so on.
    89. It is very important to ensure that the child strictly follows these rules.

      There are different types of fungal toenail infections. Treatment of onychomycosis requires serious diagnosis, long-term therapy, and may require a certain amount of money. Therefore, it is preferable to follow preventive measures and avoid infection with parasites. It would also be a good idea to know how to defeat fungus.

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