Nail fungus is also known as onychomycosis is part of nail diseases potentially affecting both genders but it is more prevalent in males and people pose a high risk of developing nail fungus as they aged. There are different types of fungus that cause nail infections such as dermatophytes yeasts e.g; Candida albicans or molds. Treatment of onychomycosis is very depending on the severity of the infection. The doctor usually prescribes a topical antifungal cream for a mild infections such as fingernail fungus which is easier to treat than toenail fungus while oral treatment is given to treat severe infections. Liberally, a combination of both oral and systemic treatment is often is the best choice. You can ask soalan about antifungal medicines and there are many specialists who are keen to answer your question.
There are multiple factors that may contribute to fungal nail infection. Those are the list group of people who has a high chance of getting nail fungus infection:
- People who had nail injuries
- Diabetes patients
- Poor blood circulation
- Immunocompromised
- People who have hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating
- People with psoriasis disease
- Regular use of artificial nails
- Cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy
Nail fungus is not highly contagious but in some cases, it can be easily transmitted from one person to another person. There was a research indicating nail infections were easily spread by close contact among the family members. You also may have a high chance of getting an athlete foot and tool fungus infections if you share the same tools such as wearing the same slippers, shoes or socks. Moist areas are hospitable to fungi such as swimming pool decks, public showers, ATM machines, and the locker room at your gym or college. Therefore, it is always advisable to avoid sharing tools to prevent the risk of getting nail fungus. Although nail fungus can be eradicated by various treatments including antifungal therapy such using a laser devices, photodynamic therapy, iontophoresis, and ultrasound. However, this methods are still under studies and hence the efficiency and effectiveness is unprecedented.
People who developed nail fungus may have the possibility of reinfection and recurrence particularly among patients with a genetic predisposition to onychomycosis, people who are immunocompromised, and diabetic patients are more likely to experience relapse. Nail fungus also easily spread to other part of the body. For example if the fungus is affecting one of your fingernails, the other fingernails surrounding it are also more has a chance to get infected as well.
Nail thickening, discoloration, white spots, or streaks on the surface of the nail are often a sign of fungal infections. Nail fungus will not go away on its own if it is left untreated. In fact, tt may cause serious health problems if the infection goes into the bloodstream, lymph nodes, and eventually may destroy the nails.Therefore you need to take preventative measures while treating the nail fungus. Here are few tips on how you can keep your fingernails and toenails free from fungus:
- Avoid exposing your nails to moist and damp area
- Always sanitize and wash your hands with soap
- Keep your nails clean, trimmed, and buffer all the time
- Dry your hand and feet well all the time
- Avoid walking barefoot in public areas
- stay away from nail polish, nail lacquer, or fake nails.
You may visit a manicure or pedicure to treat your nail but make sure the place is reputable, hygienic and sanitize their tools on a regular basis. All the following guidelines may help you to reduce the reinfections and give your nails the time to breathe and naturally heal without sealing into the cuticles.
