Fungal nails are an unsightly infection causing thickened, brittle, yellow, discolored nails, and can be sometimes painful. It is very difficult to cure. It is caused by one of several microscopic organisms, similar to those that cause Athlete's Foot (dermatophytosis). These are plant-like organisms that thrive in a dark, warm, moist environment, such as within shoes and stocking. They grow in the nail bed, beneath your nails, and live off Keratin, the protein in the nail. The condition usually begins toward the far end of the nail and may cuase white or yellow-white areas that appera to be rotten or dead. If the infection continues to the base of the nail, it can invade the nail root (matrix) and cause the nail to grow thickened and deformed. Many people complain of a foul odor associated with this condition. It can also spread to other nails.
Sweaty tennis shoes and moist socks create the perfect conditions for them. The fungi thrive in a warm, moist, dark environment and they eat protein keratin that our skin produces. Although fungi may be present in the skin around the nails, it may not develop a nail infection without history of injury, such as bruised toenails from short shoes, inflammation from an ingrown toenail, or from cutting the nails incorrectly or too short. In other words, the organisms do not invade intact, healthy, normal skin or nails. Other contributing factors would be excessive perspiration, and Dermatophytosis (Athlete's Foot), which is caused by similar fungi.
If left untreated, fungal nail infections can affect the entire nail and surrounding skin. Thankfully, there are several options available to rid your toes of unsightly and embarrassing colors or images. Formula 3 is as simple and easy as painting your nails. Oil-soluble, it gets through the nail bed and treats the fungus right away. Most people see a difference in their nails in 6 weeks. Dr.'s Remedy Nail Polish is similar to Formula 3, but is a nail polish with color options. There are a wide variety of colors and it hides unsightly nails during sandal season. SteriShoe Sanitizer is an option to rid your shoes of harmful bacteria. You may think it's enough to tret your feet, but you also need to treat your shoes as well. SteriShoe uses ultraviolet light to kill microorganisms in your shoes.
Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
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