Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) on the feet is not just a cosmetic defect, but a serious disease. Symptoms and treatments for nail fungus.

Fungus of nails – what kind of “beast” is that?

A healthy nail plate should be flat, pink and shiny. And if at least one of these requirements is not met, then there is a problem. According to statistics, 50% of all nail diseases are fungal infections. In addition to the fact that the disease purely aesthetically gives a lot of problems, the treatment is also serious and long-term.

It all starts from the skin of the feet, more often from the interdigital folds. As a rule, the first symptom of a fungus on the feet (which in medical circles is more often called onychomycosis) is peeling, accompanied by burning and itching. Then bubbles appear, which burst, form ulcers and cracks. You should not think that everything will pass by itself, you just need to be patient. If treatment is not started immediately, the fungus can spread to the nails, continuing to grow and multiply. Slowly but surely, the fungus on the feet is taking over new spaces.

The main symptoms of nail fungus are:

• Cracks in the interdigital folds (typically between 1–2 and 4–5 toes)

• Thickening of the skin

• Itching

• Redness

• Burning sensation

• Thickening, brittleness, or thinning of the nail

Risk zone

Nail fungus is spread from person to person. And the main let the penetration of infection into the skin – microcracks. Why do they appear? For example, wearing tight, uncomfortable shoes, getting sand on the beach between your toes. In the future, the disease leads to skin inflammation and the formation of deep cracks. The risk of catching a fungus is higher in people with circulatory disorders in the legs, deformity of the feet, suffering from excessive sweating of the legs, and also those who are overweight. Stress, smoking, alcohol abuse can also lead to the development of fungal infections, as they contribute to a decrease in immunity.

Nail fungus: self-medication canceled

The appearance of the fungus cannot be hidden. If you find yourself with symptoms of this ailment, then in no case should you postpone your visit to the doctor. Self-medication is fraught with complications. Prolonged onychomycosis can provoke an allergic reaction, weaken the immune system and lead to an exacerbation of chronic diseases. Alas, without special diagnostics, it is impossible to determine the exact cause of the change in the structure of the nail plates. There are several dozen types of fungal infections. In addition, it may not be a fungus, but a manifestation of allergies, vitamin deficiency and many other pathologies.

The correct diagnosis can only be made by a specialist on the basis of scraping from the nail for microscopic examination. Most often, this data is enough to prescribe treatment. True, there are special cases that require an analysis for sowing, when particles of the nail are taken and placed in special conditions for the active growth of fungi. This makes it possible to understand which “pests” attacked the nail and which antimycotic drugs fight them best.

The mycologist knows everything about the disease. True, it is hardly possible to find him in state polyclinics. For advice, it is worth contacting the dermatovenerologic dispensary (KVD). Another option is a dermatologist. This specialist is more accessible.

No sacrifice treatment

Previously, radical methods were used to treat the fungus: the affected nails were simply removed surgically, after which there was a long rehabilitation period. Since then, medicine has made a big step forward and now a more adequate method is being used – hardware processing of nails. The unit is somewhat reminiscent of a dentist’s drill. At the end of the device there is a drill that grinds the nail as much as necessary. After the procedure, nothing hurts. It is necessary to process the nails as they grow. And only a doctor can decide how many sessions are needed.

There are many fungi, the differences relate to the symptoms and routes of infection, but the treatment of all fungal infections is almost the same and takes from 3 to 6 months. And do not believe the numerous stories of happy deliverance from the disease with the help of folk methods. Alas, no amount of home baths and wraps can kill the fungus.

Removal of the nail plate is required only if more than 40% of the surface is affected. At the initial stage of the disease, when the fungus has not yet taken up the destruction of the nail, there are enough external medicines: medical varnish or a special solution. If less than 40% of the nail plate is affected, then a course of antimycotic drugs is prescribed.

Disinfect it!

An important problem during and after the treatment of nail fungus is the antibacterial treatment of all places where the affected skin particles could remain. The walls and bottom of the bath must be thoroughly cleaned with special disinfectants. Throw away your slippers, even if they are your favorite. Boots, shoes and sneakers can be treated with a special UV-emitting device. Alternatively, wipe the shoes with acetic acid (25%) or formalin solutions. Wash and iron socks, stockings, towels and bed linen well. Manicure scissors are disinfected by dipping in alcohol and igniting over a fire.

Methods for the prevention of nail fungus

If the treatment is done correctly, the disease does not return. Re-infection is much more common. So the most effective remedy in the fight against nail fungus is prevention. Don’t go barefoot in public. Always bring flip-flops and a personal towel to the beach. At the pharmacy, you can buy a special spray that protects against fungus. They can handle shoes and feet. Very convenient for visiting pools or fitness rooms.

It is easy to avoid infection with nail fungus in the family – you just need to follow simple hygiene rules and use only your own shoes. But best of all, it’s just to keep your feet healthy, wear comfortable, not tight shoes, and regularly take care of your feet and nails with special creams and sprays. And make yourself a rule: when going on a visit, take slippers with you. Then no fungus is terrible.