Toenail fungus is a fairly common disease that has an infectious nature. It develops due to fungal organisms: molds, yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida and dermatomycetes.
Scientists claim that there are more than fifty types of fungi that can cause toenail disease. At the same time, you need to understand that the fight against toenail fungus will not be easy, this is due to the characteristics of the disease and its focus.
If we take into account the statistics, about 20 percent of the world population faces this deviation and a similar deformation of the nail.
Causes of fungi
The main reason for the appearance of the fungus is infection with microorganisms of mycotic species. They often become dermatomycetes. A huge number of enzymes help microorganisms to easily penetrate the nail and skin. First of all, they affect the feet and subsequently move to the nails.
The infection itself occurs after contact with the carrier of the disease. It can be not only a person or an animal, but also personal hygiene items, places of large crowds of people, especially common showers, toilets, swimming pools, and so on.
Reference. In addition, the cause of the development of the fungus is excessive sweating (this disease is called hyperhidrosis), metabolic disorders, diabetes of any type, HIV, extra pounds, poor functioning of the immune system, taking certain drugs, antibiotics and contraceptives.
The fungus quickly takes root on the skin and nails of people who abuse sweets, which disrupts the endocrine system.
The mycologist is engaged in the treatment of such a disease, it may also be necessary to visit a dermatologist.
Symptoms of the fungus
3 stages
At different stages of the disease, the symptoms of nail fungus can be completely different:
- In the first stage, also called the initial stage, the symptoms of the disease often do not appear at all. Barely noticeable, almost transparent spots may appear on the nail itself. These streaks or spots can indicate the presence of a fungus, so it's best to see a doctor and start treatment first or disprove your suspicions.
- At the second stage, the natural shine of the nail disappears, later it begins to change color, becomes dull, and more yellow, brown streaks or spots are formed on the nail plate. The top of the nail can change.
- On the third, the disease completely affects the nail and begins to crack and exfoliate, the cuticle can become inflamed, and the fungus can also affect nearby toenails and even the skin.
The second and third stages can be noticed on their own, this no longer requires special tests or diagnostics.
External signs
The external signs of the fungus can be called as follows:
- the nail turns yellow or even brown;
- there are streaks or spots on the plate;
- the nail becomes loose and denser, but at the same time it breaks and exfoliates quickly.
Caution. In some cases, a person cannot comfortably wear closed shoes, suffering from pain and severe itching. Also, symptoms such as burning, tingling, inflamed lesions, dry skin, flaking around the nail, and so on can speak of the fungus.
Treatment and remedies for the fungus
Reference. More recently, nail fungus can only be cured with the help of surgery, when the entire nail plate has been removed. However, in rare cases, such an operation was effective - a new nail may grow already infected.
If the damage to the nail is minor, doctors may prescribe special antifungal drugs and ointments that need to be applied to the affected area. Modern medicine offers improved transparent paints that help to cope with the disease in a short time. If the lesion is in the third stage, the patient may be prescribed an antibiotic in the form of tablets for oral use.
Folk methods and recipes
Many patients cope with this unpleasant disease with the help of traditional medicine. Below we will describe in detail what folk remedies are used to combat foot fungus.
Vinegar
You can use 9 percent acetic acid or an apple solution. Fungal pathogens do not like an acidic environment, and vinegar helps prevent the reproduction of harmful microorganisms.
It can be used as a bath or a compress, and it is best to treat not only the affected area, but the entire foot, shoes and clothing. Acetic therapy is not suitable for those with wounds and cracks on the skin of the legs, as a strong burning sensation will occur during the treatment. The simplest compress: 9 percent vinegar and water, in a ratio of 1 to 8.
vegetable juices
Lubricate the affected area with onion juice, it should be fresh. You can also mix garlic juice with water and medicinal alcohol (1: 1: 1). Another medicinal vegetable is horseradish root, which must first be minced with a meat grinder.
Essential oils
Another effective folk method is various essential oils that can be added to foot baths and applied directly to the nail plate. It can be lavender essential oil, rosemary, tea tree oil and others.
How to quickly cure nail fungus
Some plants can also help in the treatment of fungi. The effect of their use will be immediately evident.
Propolis
Propolis is an effective and fast acting component in the treatment of toenail fungus. At the same time, it not only helps to get rid of harmful microorganisms, but also reduces discomfort, relieves burning and redness. The most effective way is to moisten a cotton ball with a 20% solution and apply it directly to the nail plate itself, put a dry cotton ball on top and bandage your finger. The lotion should be used throughout the day, without removing. Next, remove the softened nail. Repeat the procedure until complete recovery.
celandine
In the summer, celandine will help to cope with the disease. With it you can prepare a healthy mixture: five tablespoons of the plant are poured into 1. 5 liters of boiling water, after which the composition is boiled over low heat for ten minutes. To refrigerate the resulting medicine and to filter. Pour the celandine into a foot bath and soak it for 15 minutes. The procedure must be repeated 2 times a day.
Prevention
- Never use other people's hygiene products, especially pedicure tools.
- Don't wear someone else's shoes.
- Use rubber slippers in places like the swimming pool or sauna.
- Feet after showering should be thoroughly wiped with a towel.
- Track your immune system, weight and blood sugar.
- Never use wet shoes.
- Socks, tights or stockings need to be changed every day.
- Take care of your feet regularly.
Conclusion
Remember that in the initial stages of the disease it is much easier to cure the fungus, so it is necessary to monitor the condition of the nails. If you suspect nail fungus, you should see a doctor right away.