One of the most common infectious diseases is toenail fungus. This pathology has a second name - onychomycosis. Its pathogens are classified into three main categories: such as yeasts, fungi, and dermatomycetes. Often, damage to the nail plate on the foot is caused by a third group. There are many factors that influence the entry of foreign microorganisms under the nail. Fungal infections are classified according to cause and form of manifestation. In order for it not to ruin your life in the long run, you need to start treating it on time and properly. This therapy includes special antifungal drugs (ointments, creams, tablets, medicinal solutions, varnishes). It is important to know which solution is effective in your case, so that the treatment is not useful.
The reasons
Before starting to fight the fungus, it is necessary to know the cause that triggered its development. Consider the main factors that influence the penetration of microorganisms deep into the nail:
- mechanical damage to the plate;
- contact with the personal hygiene items of an infected person;
- increased sweating;
- wearing uncomfortable shoes;
- constant contact with chemical and degreasing agents that damage the nail structure;
- ignoring the rules of personal hygiene;
- professions associated with high pollution, air humidity;
- significant deterioration of immunity.
Secondary reasons that cause nail fungus to start growing are:
- skin aging;
- violation of the function of the gastrointestinal tract;
- allergic reactions;
- adrenal gland failure;
- hormonal disorders (long -term use of oral contraceptives, pregnancy);
- bad habits;
- regular consumption of alcoholic beverages.
People with HIV, diabetes, obesity and other diseases that negatively affect the body’s defenses are at risk. In addition, those who visit beauty salons that do not disinfect the tools are vulnerable to such disorders. Saunas, baths, swimming pools and other people’s gathering places are good habitats for fungal infections.
Please note that drug treatment will not be sufficient if you do not initially eliminate the underlying cause that led to the development of the fungus. So, first of all, see a mycologist. The doctor will direct you to the necessary tests and examinations.
Symptoms
The manifestations of each type of fungus are different. First, let's look at the main symptoms:
- in the early stages, the structure of the nail plate is destroyed and its color changes;
- sore nails leave the skin, and immediately fall off;
- there is dryness, itching, unpleasant odor in the feet and toes;
- some areas of skin peel off;
- dysbiosis develops (patient feels weak, drowsy, loss of appetite).
The selection of the right medication depends on the form of the fungus. Consider the symptomatology of each type of pathology.
| Name | The causative agent | Manifestation |
|---|---|---|
| Dermatophyte (most common) | Epidermophyton, Trichophyton, Microsporum | Yellow and gray stripes form on the nails. Soon, such formations are localized on nearby fingernails. The second stage is characterized by the separation of the nail from the skin. The neglected form is dangerous, because the fungus spreads to the feet. |
| Yeast (women are more susceptible than men, because the main cause of this type is the regular use of detergents) | Candida | In the first stage, the cuticle is affected (becomes inflamed, when pressed, pus is released). Subsequently, the nail plate loses its density and changes color, becomes wavy, disappearing into pieces. Fingers are swollen, the infected complain of pain. |
| Reference (most easily treated) | Reference | In the first stage, unbearable itching appears in and around the nail. Then appear spots of various colors. In a neglected form, the plate completely changes color, dry skin is visible, cracked and sore. |
In addition, fungi are classified according to their stage of development, which also determines the choice of individual treatment:
- The initial (normotrophic) form is characterized by changes in the shade of the plate, the formation of spots on it.
- The second stage (hypertrophic) brings discomfort. It manifests itself in the form of nail deformities (fragility, tuberosity).
- The third form (atrophic) shows complete plate atrophy (apart from the bed). This level is negligible, quite difficult to treat.
It is best to see a doctor, because amateur performance not only brings useless results, but also negative results.
Treatment
Having a dreaded problem like nail fungus? Tired of itching and unpleasant odors from your feet? Spending a lot of time and money, and an unpleasant disease is still quickly attacking your nails? This can be fixed! The selection of an effective drug is made based on the analysis of a large amount of information and surveys of people who have gone through unpleasant stages in the fight against the fungus.
Pil
As mentioned earlier, it is very important to determine the type of pathogen and the stage of pathological development. An additional step is to eliminate the possibility of an allergic reaction of the body to the pill.
Treatment should not only be local, internal effects are necessary, as the outcome of incomplete treatment will be zero. To reduce the negative effects of the drug, you need to drink more fluids. Since such drugs are toxic, the first condition is a lean diet (excluding dairy products fermented with yeast, fatty foods). It is recommended to do a blood test every three months to keep your body under control.
Local preparation
Such funds are used in conjunction with tablets. Before using it, it is necessary to perform a procedure of cleaning the affected area. For this:
- Wash your feet using antibacterial products;
- Take a bath (dilute two tablets of antimicrobial agent in five liters of boiled water). The duration of the procedure was fifteen minutes;
- Remove peeled nail particles and dry your feet.
After performing such a procedure, you can use the drug (several times a day).
They quickly eliminate itching, discomfort, and unpleasant odors. After the first application, you can feel significant relief. Essential oils act as a complementary treatment. Prevention includes boosting the immune system. To prevent the development of nail infections on the nails, it is recommended to use personal hygiene products, wear slippers in the sauna and swimming pool, wear comfortable shoes and keep your feet dry.
To cure nail fungus, first see a mycologist (preferably in the first two weeks). The use of medication is a mandatory method of getting rid of this disease. Remember that timely treatment is the key to a quick recovery without complications.