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| Feet with polished nails (Photo credit: Wikipedia) |
Procrastination is the enemy when dealing with
toenail fungal infection. The call to action requires a quick response in order to avoid the spread of this common problem.
Symptoms of a nail fungal infection, or onychomycosis, may first start as a small white or yellowish spots under the tip of your nails. If left untreated, it may progress to cause brittle, crumbling and darkening nails. The build-up of fungus may cause the nail to become yellow and thickened, eventually to the point that it becomes irregular and leads to pain. Toenail fungus may lead to other infections with serious medical ramifications if you are in an at risk group such as
diabetic or someone with a weakened immune system.
You should see a doctor at the first indication of nail fungus because they are persistent, and difficult to get rid of. A fungal nail infection can easily spread to other toenails. Your doctor will need to begin you on a treatment of medication in order to eliminate this infection.
The tiny organisms that make up this fungus do not require sunlight for survival. In fact, they thrive in dark, warm and moist environments. Inside your tennis shoes is the perfect breeding ground.
Knowing you are at risk and taking the appropriate precautions is about all you can do as far as prevention goes. You are at increased risk to contract the fungus if you are:
- Prone to other skin problems such as psoriasis
- Work in warm and damp environments
- Barefoot in public pool or shower areas
- Diabetic with poor circulation
Nail infections are resilient to many of the over the counter preparations and even if you were to think it was cured, the infection is apt to sneak back. Oral medications may be prescribed, but there are risks to these antifungal medications including skin break-outs and liver damage.
What can you do to prevent nail fungus?
- Keep nails short, dry and clean.
- Wear moisture wicking socks.
- Allow shoes to air out and dry between wearings.
- Don’t go barefoot in public showers or pool areas.
- Wash and dry feet thoroughly.
At the first sign of nail fungus, make an
appointment with Dr. Boucher at (203)238-3668. She will be able to determine the type of infection. She can also start a treatment plan to cure and prevent spreading, thereby avoiding more serious medical complications.
References:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/nail-fungus/DS00084
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001330.htm
