Nail fungus is a fungal infection of the nail that can affect both fingernails and toenails. It usually begins as an area of white or yellow discoloration on the tip or side edge of the nail and spreads from there. Common symptoms include thickened nails, itching, painful toes/fingers when walking or wearing certain footwear may also occur. In severe cases it can cause separation between parts of the nail plate and even lead to complete loss of the affected part(s). Treatment options range from topical antifungal medication to oral medications in more serious cases. Preventative measures such as avoiding tight shoes, keeping feet dry by changing socks frequently (esp w Failing this good hygiene practices) are important for preventing future infections. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan carefully—fungal infections often go away completely if treated properly but they have high chance of recurrence without proper care over long time periods
Preventation of nail fungus
Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection of the nail bed. It can cause discoloration, thickening of nails and splitting or separation from the nail bed. To reduce your chances of getting nail fungus:
•Keep toenails trimmed short and filed round so no sharp edges remain.
•Clean feet every day with soap and water after playing sports or walking long distances.
•Wear flip-flops in locker rooms and public showers to protect your feet from any contagious fungi present.
•Take antibiotics prescribed by a doctor if you have diabetes mellitus since it increases susceptibility for fungal infections in general—not just those affecting the nails
•Alternatively use over the counter antifungal creams if you do not want to take antibiotics regularly
•Change socks daily especially when participating in activities where wetness builds up; when possible powder foot central zone between toes for added protection against damp areas that provide ideal conditions for development of nearly all types of soil based organisms including dermatophytes (fungi).
•Air-dry shoes at room temperature instead using heaters which will only increase moisture levels inside them further leading to increased possibilities such spreading contagious ringworm infestations over time due lack good ventilation systems found these environments making sustained contact easier than ever before!
Treatment of nail fungus
The most commonly prescribed medications used to treat nail fungus are antifungal pills like terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox). These works by causing damage inside fungal cells so they can no longer reproduce properly over time destroying them completely even if you stop taking them too earlyother Over The Counter OTC topicals containing clotrimazole such as Lotrimin AF cream applied twice daily may be effective but not typically strong enough for severe cases. Prescription topical solutions such as amorolfine lacquer Penlac has been found successful in curing milder infections without need for oral medication however must be applied weekly up until problem fully resolved . Alternatively laser treatment also available at certain clinics use high powered light beam heat energy eliminate infected area including all remaining spores beneath nails stating process immediately after procedure finished ensuring faster recovery times lessen chance reoccurrences will occur overall solution duration varying between 10 – 12 sessions collected 6 week intervals depending patient’s health needs case basis. As last option surgery used cut out severely damaged portion potentially clear away root infection contact doctor determine best approach given situation sure take part necessary feet hygiene practices keep from reinfecting yourself others going forward healthy gorgeous looking again soon!