are you in the fight against fungi
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I'm Thinking of Seeing a Doctor
Fungal Infections of the Nails & Toenails
Fungal infections of the nails and toenails (tinea unguium, also known as onychomycosis) make up approximately 50 percent of all nail disorders and can be difficult to treat. The incidence of nail fungal infection increases with age. By age 60, 20 to 30 percent of the population suffers from the disease. More than 12 million Americans are affected by this fungal infection, which if left untreated can ultimately lead to pain and discomfort.
Onychomycosis is more common in toenails than fingernails because toenails are confined in a warm, moist environment. The infection typically starts at the tip of one or more toenails and produces gradual thickening and discoloration, often causing the end of the nail to separate from the nail bed. Debris-white, green, yellow or black-may build up under the nail and discolor the skin there. The top of the nail or the skin at the base of the nail can also be affected.
Fungus hides beneath the nail, making it difficult to treat with topical medications. Effective treatment usually requires oral antifungal therapy, often in combination with topical therapy and debridement (surgical removal) of the infected nail.
Fungal infections of the nail are difficult to treat. It may take many months-sometimes a year or more-for the infection to completely clear as the nail grows. Recurrences are common despite such therapy, and the nail infection may serve as a source for repeated infection of the skin.
Proper treatment of a fungal infection depends on the right diagnosis, which makes going to a physician important. Before treating what you think may be a fungal infection, check with your dermatologist or podiatrist, who can diagnose the condition and prescribe the correct course of treatment.
Good nail care habits can help you avoid fungal infections, since many nail disorders result from poor nail care. Developing good habits early will help keep them healthy. The American Academy of Dermatology offers the following tips:
Keep nails clean and dry. This helps keep bacteria and other infectious organisms from collecting under the nail.
If toenails are thick and difficult to cut, soak them in warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt to a pint of water) for five to 10 minutes and apply a 10 percent urea cream-available at drug stores without a prescription. Trim as usual.
Nails should be cut straight across and rounded slightly at the tip for maximum strength. Use sharp nail scissors or clippers to do the job. Filing the nails into points will weaken them. Use a "fine" textured file to keep nails shaped and free of snags.
Avoid biting fingernails.
Avoid "digging-out" ingrown toenails, especially if they are already infected and sore. Seek treatment from a dermatologist.
Report any nail irregularities to your dermatologist. Nail changes, swelling and pain could signal a serious problem.
To cut down the likelihood of fingernail infections, wear gloves if your hands are frequently immersed in water.
The use of artificial nails increases the likelihood of a fungal infection. If you see any discoloration, be sure to have your artificial nails removed.
Any time you have a manicure or pedicure, be sure to select a nail salon that is scrupulous in its observation of sterilization procedures. If possible, bring your own nail implements for the manicurist to use.