Onychomycosis is a condition where the nail becomes infested with fungi. Often referred to simply as nail fungus, this problem is widespread and is believed to be the cause behind atleast 50% of all nail abnormalities. It can infect both you finger and toe nails but it is much more common to attract it on your feets than on your hands.
A thicker than normal nail with a cloude or yellow appearance is usually signs on an infested nail. Sometimes the nail becomes rough and crumbly, and separation form the nail bed can occur. In mild to moderate cases, the ailment is not associated with any pain or discomfort.
It is hard to cure to to being embedded in the nail and treating toe nail fungus usually requires long term nail fungus treatment. Do not be surprised if the process takes up to a year or more, especially when the big toe is affected since this large nail needs a lot of time to regenerate.
A majority of all toenail fungus treatment products are topical or systematic, but more and more products are introduced to the market that are a combination of the two. Some of the most used products are itraconazole, terbinafine, ciclopirox and amorolfine. Another way of treating toe nail fungus is by using laser.
Nail fungus problems are caused by a wide range of culprits, including candida, dermatophytes and so called non-dermatophytic moulds. In temperate parts of the world dermatophytes are the main perpetrators, while people living in tropical and subtropical conditions are more commonly affected by non-dermatophytic moulds and candida.
Deramtophytes feeds on keratinized rich materials and is therefore commonly found in hair, skin and nails. They usually dont penetrate the nonliving cornified layers of the skin since the immune system keeps them at bay and prevent them from entering living tissue. However if you have a weakened immune system, e.g. due to some medications or health issues, can allow fungus to attack living cells as well. They can be transmitted in a number of ways and can spread both by direct contact with an infected individual or or indirect due to contact with shedded skin, nails or hair particles. They can for instance spread through locker room floors, towels, bed linens, clothing, combs and brushes, and furniture. Shoe rental. e.g. for bowling, poses a risk unless the shoes are sterilized.
Tags: foot health, fungus, Health, nail fungus, toe fungus, toe nail, toe nail fungus, toenails