One of the most common infectious diseases is nail fungus. This pathology has a second name - onychomycosis. Its pathogens are classified into three main categories: yeasts, molds and dermatomycetes. Most often, damage to the nail plate on the legs is caused by the third group. Many factors affect the entry of foreign microorganisms under the nail. Fungal infection is classified according to the cause and form of manifestation. In order for it not to spoil your life for a long time, it is necessary to start treating it on time and correctly. Therapy includes special antifungal drugs (ointments, creams, tablets, medicinal solutions, varnishes). It is important to determine which remedies will work for you, so that treatment is not unnecessary.
The reasons
Before starting to fight the fungus, it is necessary to establish the cause that triggered its development. Consider the main factors affecting the penetration of microorganisms deep into the nail:
- mechanical damage to the plate;
- contact with personal hygiene items of an infected person;
- increased sweating;
- use uncomfortable shoes;
- constant contact with chemical and degreasing agents that destroy the structure of the nail;
- ignore the rules of personal hygiene;
- occupations associated with high pollution, air humidity;
- a sharp deterioration in immunity.
The secondary reasons that nail fungus can start to develop are:
- aging of the skin;
- violation of the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
- allergic reaction;
- failure of the adrenal glands;
- hormonal disturbances (long-term use of oral contraceptives, pregnancy);
- bad habits;
- regular consumption of alcoholic beverages.
People living with HIV, diabetes, obesity and other diseases that negatively affect the body's defenses are at risk. In addition, those who visit beauty salons that do not disinfect tools are likely to develop such a nuisance. Saunas, baths, swimming pools and other places of mass gathering are a favorable habitat for fungal infections.
Please note that drug treatment will not be enough if you do not eliminate the underlying cause that triggered the development of the fungus first. Therefore, first of all, consult a mycologist. The doctor will direct you to the necessary tests and examinations.
Symptoms
The manifestations of each type of fungus are different. Let's see the main symptoms first:
- at the initial stage, the structure of the nail plate is destroyed and its color changes;
- a painful nail leaves the skin and soon falls out;
- there is dryness, itching, an unpleasant smell in the foot and toes;
- some areas of the skin peel;
- dysbiosis develops (the patient feels weak, drowsy, loses appetite).
The correct selection of the drug depends on the shape of the fungus. Consider the symptomatology of each type of pathology.
In addition, the fungus is classified according to the degree of development, which also determines the choice of individual treatment:
- The initial (normotrophic) form is characterized by a change in the color of the plaque, the formation of spots on it.
- The second stage (hypertrophic) brings discomfort. It manifests itself in the form of deformation of the nail (fragility, tuberosity).
- The third (atrophic) form involves complete atrophy of the plaque (detached from the bed). This step is neglected, it is quite difficult to deal with.
It is recommended to consult a doctor, since amateur performances can bring not only unnecessary results, but also negative results.
Treatment
Are you suffering from a dreaded problem like nail fungus? Tired of the itchy and unpleasant odor on your feet? Have you spent a lot of time and money, and an unpleasant disease still quickly affects your nails? It is repairable! The selection of effective drugs is based on the analysis of a large amount of information and surveys of people who have already gone through an unpleasant stage in the fight against the fungus.
Pills
As stated earlier, it is of paramount importance to determine the type of pathogen and the stage of development of the pathology. An additional measure is to eliminate the risk of an allergic reaction of the body to the pills.
Treatment should not only be local, the impact from the inside is necessary, since the result of incomplete treatment will be zero. To reduce the negative effect of the drug, you need to drink more fluids. Since these drugs are toxic, the first requirement is a lean diet (excluding yeast-fermented dairy products, fatty foods). It is recommended that you take a blood test every three months to keep your body under control.
Local preparations
These funds are used in combination with tablets. Before using them, it is necessary to carry out a procedure for cleaning the affected areas. For that:
- Wash your feet with an antibacterial product;
- Take a bath (dilute two tablets of antimicrobial agent in five liters of boiled water). The duration of the procedure is fifteen minutes;
- Remove particles from peeled nails and dry your feet.
After performing such a procedure, you can use the drug (several times a day).
They quickly eliminate itching, discomfort and unpleasant odors. Already after the first application you can feel significant relief. Essential oils act as a complementary care. Prevention includes improving the immune system. To prevent the development of fungal nail infections, it is recommended to use personal hygiene products, wear slippers in saunas and swimming pools, wear comfortable shoes and keep the feet dry.
To treat nail fungus, see a mycologist first (preferably within the first two weeks). The use of drugs is an obligatory method of eliminating this disease. Remember, prompt treatment is the key to a quick recovery without complications.