Fungus in toenails and fingernails is an infection with microorganism called Tinea unguium. Although nails act as barriers and withstand a superficial attack by microbes, the same nails become obstacles for any treatment to cure nail fungus, which has successfully invaded and taken a deep seat ...Fungus in toenails and fingernails is an infection with microorganism called Tinea unguium. Although nails act as barriers and withstand a superficial attack by microbes, the same nails become obstacles for any treatment to cure nail fungus, which has successfully invaded and taken a deep seat inside the nails.
It is estimated that as high as 35 millions of Americans get infected with nail fungus. The fungus thrives under the nail and is well protected as well as supplied with congenial conditions by the nail sheath including darkness and dampness. Since the fungus thrives underneath a nail it becomes difficult to curewww.toenail-fungus-treatments.com nail fungus as well as contain multiplication of the fungus.
Nail enamel as well as artificial nails assist in trapping the fungus as well as moisture. In general toenails have 6-7 times more chance of getting infected with the nail fungus because of the fact that the socks and shoes render a cozy, dark and moist conditions for the toenails. The fungus renders the nail base and sides red and inflamed. The nail base or edges get affected first. Once the fungus establishes and multiplies there will be changes on nail bed as well as the nail.
Most of the times, there is some amount of uneasiness with some itching sensation and ache about the cuticles, which is nothing but the tissue enveloping the nails. Sometimes the cuticles tend to bleed and get detached. The nail may also become yellowish-green to dark-brown colored with occasional white spots. Nails also tend to become thick and show some channels and lines with some small-embossed holes.
Is the Infection a Contagious one?
The infection can be contagious and spread from person to person. As told, the organism favors moist conditions and when the feet are bare chances of spreading is more, such as places including public showers, restrooms or lockers. Infection can also happen via nail files or emery boards. It is therefore advised not to share these things with others. Infection can happen from one infected nail to the other ones.
What is the Cure for This Infection?
As the old adage goes, prevention is better than cure. Keep the nails trimmed periodically. To trim or cut hard nails soak them in brine solution (a teaspoon of common salt in 1 gallon water) and the softened nails are cut and dried. Always the feet should be kept dry and ventilated. Go for quality enamels and be selective about manicuring person. Check if they follow sterilization of their equipment. Upon noticing signs of infection immediately visit a podiatric specialist or your family care physician.
Topical creams applied directly to the infected site are recommended to cure nail fungus of mild intensity. Visit the foot care section of your local drug store chain. Creams include Lotrimin, Monistat, Nizoral, Tinactin, and Lamisil. If the topical treatments fail, more potent medications can be taken orally if your health care provider thinks it is necessary. Oral medications may have side effects, so tell your health care provider about any other medications, including birth control like the pill or Depo-Provera, if you are prescribed an oral medication for fungus.
For not-so-serious infections topical applications are recommended to cure nail fungus. You may check with the foot care division of a nearby pharmacist. The topical medications include Lotrmin, Monistat, Nizaral, Tinctin and Lamisil creams.
For acute infections and for those that do not respond to topical therapy, the podiatrist prescribes oral drugs. However, oral medications have some negative effects. So present a detailed list of your current medications to your doctor including OCPs such as Depo-Provra, if an oral medication is given to cure nail fungus.
Nails tell a tale of a person's wellness. If nails are healthy it reflects the person is healthy and similarly an infected nail reveals other health threats. Add high- protein diet in your daily meals and see that your nails are growing strong and healthy.
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