Nail fungus - Symptoms,causes,Diagnosis and treatment

What is Toenail Fungus ?

Toenail fungus is a fungal infection that affects the toenails and causes changes in the appearance and texture of the nails, such as thickening, yellowing, and separation from the nail bed.

The types of toenail fungus include:

Onychomycosis

Yeast infections

Dermatophyte infections

Candida infections

Nondermatophyte mold infections

Symptoms include:

Thickening of the toenail

Discoloration (yellow or brown)

Brittle or crumbly toenail

Deformation of the toenail

Foul odor

Separation of the toenail from the nail bed.

Causes of toenail fungus or infection.

Moist environment, such as sweaty shoes or socks

Poor hygiene

Foot injuries

Weak immune system

Aging

Diabetes

Circulation issues

Being in a public place barefoot, like a locker room or pool

Using infected nail clippers, pedicure tools, or shoes.

Treatment and cure

The good news is that toenail fungus can be treated effectively with a combination of over-the-counter and prescription treatments. 

Ointments 

The first line of treatment is usually antifungal creams and ointments, which can be applied directly to the affected nail. Some popular over-the-counter options include terbinafine and clotrimazole.

Medication 

If topical treatments are not effective, oral antifungal medication may be prescribed. These medications, such as itraconazole and fluconazole, work by killing the fungal cells and preventing them from growing. However, oral antifungal medication can have side effects, so it is important to talk to a doctor before starting treatment.

Laser Therapy 

Another option for treating toenail fungus is laser therapy, which uses concentrated light energy to kill the fungal cells. This is a non-invasive treatment that has been found to be effective in many cases, although it is more expensive than other treatments.

It is important to note that toenail fungus can take several months to clear up completely, even with treatment. Persistence and patience are key when it comes to treating toenail fungus. If you have concerns or are experiencing symptoms of toenail fungus, it is important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

In addition to medical treatments, there are also some home remedies that can help to manage toenail fungus. Here are the most effective cleaning tips for toenail infections:

Keep feet clean and dry: 

Wash feet daily with soap and water and make sure to dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.

Change socks and shoes regularly:

 Wearing clean, dry socks and shoes every day can help prevent the growth of fungi.

Avoid sharing personal items:

 Don't share nail clippers, pedicure tools, or shoes, as these items can easily spread fungal infections.

Wear breathable shoes:

 Wear shoes made from breathable materials, such as canvas or leather, to keep feet dry and reduce the growth of fungi.

Avoid going barefoot in public places:

 Wear shoes or sandals in communal areas like pools, locker rooms, and showers to prevent fungal infections.

Use an antifungal powder:

 Sprinkle antifungal powder in your shoes and socks to keep your feet dry and reduce the growth of fungi.

Soak feet in vinegar:

 Soaking your feet in a mixture of warm water and vinegar can help kill fungal cells and reduce the risk of infection.

Trim nails regularly:

 Trim your toenails regularly to keep them short and reduce the risk of fungal infections.

Diet 

A balanced diet that includes the following can support overall nail health:

Vitamin C (citrus fruits, bell peppers, tomatoes, etc.)

Vitamin B-complex (whole grains, poultry, beef, etc.)

Zinc (red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, etc.)

Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, mackerel, flaxseeds, etc.)

By following these cleaning tips and also following the healthy diet you can effectively prevent and manage toenail infections and keep your feet healthy and fungus-free.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, toenail fungus is a common and treatable condition that affects the appearance and health of the toenails. With a combination of over-the-counter and prescription treatments, laser therapy, and home remedies, it is possible to effectively manage and treat toenail fungus.