The “poor condition of the nails” most often has an infectious, “fungal” character.Doctors call this collective disease, which has a long list of names and surnames of parasitic fungi, onychomycosis.This pathology has become increasingly common in recent years.And anyone can “catch” nail fungus as many times as they want.Therefore, if you notice any “oddities” in the appearance of your nails, do not leave the solution to this problem for later.In the early stages of the development of toenail fungus, the simplest procedures can save your life.And advanced forms will require a serious mobilization of all our resources, including material ones.
Causes and prevention of toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
Where does toenail fungus come from and how to get rid of it?– Of course, it is worth asking this question before the problem becomes obvious.For example, don't go barefoot in public baths, swimming pools or even beaches.Whatever is said about the benefits of "foot massage" following a joyful run on the sand, do not forget that next to you, millions of little mushrooms that sleep and see your feet as a safe haven will also be happy with this massage run.
But not only walking barefoot or wearing someone else's shoes can cause fungus to appear on the feet, but also your own tight and uncomfortable shoes, in which your feet sweat.Therefore, when choosing shoes (especially summer ones), give preference to natural materials, comfort and ventilation.
Anyone can become infected with toenail fungus.And you don't even understand where exactly.For example, it is not a good idea to go for a pedicure or try on “guest” slippers.
Symptoms of toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
A foot fungus (mycosis) is a lesion of the skin and nails that can develop following an infection by fungal bacteria.The parasite responsible for foot fungus most often invades the skin of the interdigital folds of the feet.The first symptom of a foot fungus is intense itching (usually between the toes), then the skin turns red and becomes very dry, the nail plate turns yellow and becomes rough.With toenail fungus, in addition to color changes and deformation of the nail, the nail bed also suffers, the phalanx of the finger swells, hurts, and sometimes even oozing sores appear.
Nail fungus (onychomycosis) may be a danger signal
It would be nice to go to a specialist and not have to undergo treatment for who knows what.Here it is worth remembering that the persistent course of mycoses on the legs often accompanies such serious diseases as diabetes mellitus, endarteritis obliterans, etc.
Treatment of toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
Foot fungus is treated by a dermatologist who prescribes systemic and local antifungal medications.
Mushrooms are those rare organisms that have survived almost all disasters on this planet.
Please note that until recently, treatment for advanced forms of nail fungus consisted of... removing the nail plate.However, this is not a radical solution to the problem, since the affected young nail grows back - sometimes the fungus safely settles on the nail growth area.
However, let's not jump to conclusions.Mushrooms are still living microorganisms.And, despite the fact that access to diseased tissues of drugs is quite complicated, the pharmaceutical market is full of offers of help.
In general, all drugs for nail fungus can be divided into two large groups: for internal use (tablets, capsules, etc.) and for external use (varnishes, ointments, pastes, etc.).
It appears that the matter is resolved and does not require further recommendations.If your nail turns yellow, run to the pharmacy, buy the medicine you saw in the advertisement that evening, and that's it.It is only in this line that I would like to recall another banal truth: the disease is not local.No matter what happens to us, the whole body is sick.
Of course, early changes noted in the nail plate can be treated locally using different types of antiseptics.Within reasonable limits, any remedies are good here - baths with a strong decoction of celandine or sea salt, compresses with a 10% alcohol solution of iodine, with finely grated onion, etc.
It would be worth remembering tea tree oil, which has unique antimicrobial properties.However, check the individual sensitivity of all essential oils!If there are no restrictions in this area, tea tree oil compresses may be sufficient.
Another wonderful folk remedy for toenail fungus is wild parsley tincture.which is able to penetrate to a sufficient depth into the affected tissue, which is necessary in our case.Unfortunately, you cannot buy it at the pharmacy.Therefore, if possible, prepare this plant yourself.It must be crushed and compacted tightly in a glass container.Fill to the top with vodka and leave for 5-7 days in a warm, dark place.Dip a cotton swab in this dye, apply it to the sore spot, covering it with a piece of cellophane from a cotton swab soaked in dye, as well as plastic wrap.Bandage this structure on the affected area, for example during the night (if it is not possible to do it at another time).Of course, you can't do this with just one procedure, but the effect is simply amazing!
At any stage of toenail fungus, take vitamins (not only pharmacy ones, but also natural ones!).They strengthen the immune system, which means they help fight onychomycosis.
Toenail fungus is dangerous!
In the early stages of toenail fungus, our immune system is able to fight the infection at the site of its invasion.But sometimes the forces are unequal!And then, not a single “famous” ointment can solve the problem on its own.The fungi release toxins that our lymphatic flow successfully distributes well beyond the visible lesion.
So, if possible, don’t delay in consulting your doctor!Especially after a failed attempt to get rid of foot fungus yourself.This indicates that treatment should be comprehensive, including both specific antifungal agents and drugs that regulate the functions of the immune system.Not counting the treatment of primary diseases, if applicable.
Prevention of foot fungus involves maintaining personal hygiene (especially in public places - at the pool, on the beach), as well as wearing comfortable shoes made from natural materials and regularly airing them.