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Fungal nail disease is called onychomycosis and is caused by pathogenic fungi (dermatophytes).
Most often the fungus affects the nails, less often - the skin. People infected with onychomycosis are mainly people who lead a healthy lifestyle - in swimming pools, saunas, on the beach.
Symptoms of onychomycosis cannot be mistaken for anything, as the smooth shiny nail becomes cloudy, rough and thickened. Yellow, gray and brown spots appear on it, as well as scratches or bumps. The skin roller around the nail becomes inflamed and swollen. The nails can peel off and crumble, and sometimes drag behind the nail bed.
Nail fungus treatment
Detecting a fungal disease is easy, but getting rid of it is much more difficult. The treatment process is laborious and requires a lot of time and patience. The first results of treatment appear no earlier than 2 weeks after the start of treatment, and the whole period takes 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.
The treatment 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 agents are combined.
Preparations for local therapy are different, but one of the most effective is antifungal varnish, which covers the diseased nail. Other local remedies can be applied to the skin.
Steps to Prevent Fungal Nail Infections
According to statistics, 20% of the world's population suffers from fungal diseases, so it is important to follow measures for the prevention of diseases and personal protection.
Effective preventative measures include the following:
- Before visiting places of public recreation, treat the feet with antifungal ointment or any local remedy.
- After going to the pool or sauna, treat your feet and hands with saline solution or take baths with 72% laundry soap.
- Wear comfortable shoes and watch for sweaty feet so that conditions are not created for the growth and development of a fungal infection.
- Scrupulously respect the rules and standards of personal hygiene (individual use of shoes, slippers, underwear).
- Do not walk barefoot on the beach, but wear light shoes.