A lot of people tend to neglect their nails, thinking that they serve no important function. In truth, the nails protect the most sensitive areas of your fingers from damage and injury. They also provide support when you hold an object.
Can you imagine how you’d be able to scratch an itchy part of your skin without your nails? Moreover, can you picture walking without your toenails? It’s crucial to ensure that your nails stay in great shape and condition all the time.
You must learn how to protect them from certain conditions such as fungal nail infection, a disease that affects many people. Learn more about this disease and how you can protect yourself from it.
What is a fungal nail infection?
Nail fungus is a disease caused by the overgrowth of fungi under the nails. It is a highly prevalent condition, especially among individuals who don’t practice good hygiene. Fungal spores from the soil, floor or dirty garments can propagate into invasive fungal bodies.
Without proper fungal nail infection treatment, the infection progresses and causes the nails to crack or crumble. There are also instances where patients with nail fungus suffer from intense pain and discomfort as their nails deteriorate.
Who is at risk of developing a nail infection?
Everyone is at risk of contracting nail fungus because of fungal spores everywhere. These can latch onto your skin and grow into fungal bodies. With high moisture, fungal bodies tend to proliferate faster.
Some folks are at high risk of developing toenail fungus. These include folks who have diabetes and poor blood circulation. Older people tend to suffer from nail infection too. You’re also most likely to suffer from nail infection if you had athlete’s foot before.
What are the treatment options?
Treating any type of fungal infection is a bit tricky because fungal bodies are hard to exterminate. This is why the treatment method used tends to differ amongst patients. It’s crucial for the doctor to have a full grasp of the possible causes of the infection and assess how far it has progressed.
In most cases, patients need to use a topical cream or medicated nail polish for a few months until the condition improves. These topical treatments contain active ingredients that fight off the infection.
Physicians may also prescribe anti-fungal tablets such as terbinafine and itraconazole. You may need to take these drugs for about one to three months, depending on the severity of your infection.
It’s crucial to practice good hygiene during and after the treatment so you can hasten the healing process and prevent future infections. Avoid walking barefoot and make sure to trim your nails regularly.
If you suspect having a nail fungal infection, schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional as soon as possible. List your symptoms and other diseases that may be linked with your condition.
Fungal infection tends to spread quickly, so it’s ideal to receive immediate treatment if you want faster healing. Check your toenails for signs and symptoms of nail fungal infection such as nail discolouration and white or yellow organic matter build-up under the nails.
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