A fungal disease of the nails is called onychomycosis and is caused by pathogenic fungi (dermatophytes).
The fungus most commonly affects the nails, less often the skin. Most of all, people who lead a healthy lifestyle are infected with onychomycosis - in swimming pools, saunas, on the beach.
The symptoms of onychomycosis are not to be confused with anything, since the nail becomes cloudy, rough and thickened from shiny and smooth. Yellow, gray, brown spots appear on it, as well as stripes or dents. The skin roll around the nail becomes inflamed and swollen. Nails can peel and crumble, sometimes lagging behind the nail bed.
Treatment of nail fungus
Identifying a fungal disease is easy, but getting rid of it is much more difficult. The treatment process is tedious and requires a lot of time and patience. The first results of therapy appear no earlier than 2 weeks after the start of treatment, and the entire period lasts from 6 to 12 months.
The danger of fungal infection of the nails is that during the disease, immunity decreases, allergic reactions appear, and chronic diseases worsen.
Therapy of fungal diseases is different and depends on the area affected by the fungus and its type. Combination therapy is most often used, when drugs for internal use and local antifungal drugs are combined.
Preparations for local therapy are different, but one of the most effective is antifungal varnish covering the diseased nail. Other local remedies can be applied to the skin.
Measures to prevent fungal infections of the nails
According to statistics, 20% of the world population suffers from fungal diseases, so it is important to take measures for disease prevention and personal protection.
Effective preventive measures include:
- Before visiting public recreation sites, treat feet with an antifungal ointment or other local remedy.
- Treat your feet and hands to a saline solution after a swim in the pool or sauna, or take baths with 72% laundry soap.
- Wear comfortable shoes and monitor sweaty feet so that there are no conditions for the growth and development of a fungal infection.
- Strictly follow the rules and norms of personal hygiene (individual use of shoes, slippers, underwear).
- Do not go barefoot on the beach, wear light shoes.