Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects your fingernails or toenails. While it seems like a novel condition, it’s actually more common than you think. It affects millions of people every year, particularly affecting people that are older.
What Causes Onychomycosis?
Many things can cause this condition. A fungal infection usually occurs because pathogens get under your nails and result in the growth of the infection. Many people report that the infection had started with some kind of nail injury.
The injury can range from splitting nails, overdoing the filing of nails to blunt trauma that results in swelling of the area. However, other health issues can cause onychomycosis, as well. It can be a side effect of yeast infections, thyroid problems, poor hygiene, or an allergy.
Common Symptoms of Onychomycosis
You may be wondering if you have onychomycosis or another condition. To make sure that you diagnose your issue properly, here are some symptoms you should look out for:
– The nails start deforming or thickening dramatically
– The nails will start to get darker and become yellow
– The shape of your nails will start to distort
– It will look like your nails are becoming brittle and chalked
– You will be able to smell a bad odour coming from the fungal infection
In rare cases, the fungal infection can start making its way out of the nail and spread to your toes and feet. This develops into what’s called athlete’s food. You want to avoid it getting this far by making sure you treat the condition as soon as possible.
It Can Cause Complications
It’s important to treat the condition right away because it can get worse. First, the nail fungus can start to get painful as it gets worse. Second, it can cause permanent damage to your nails, and you may need some kind of nail repair. Finally, it can start infecting your skin.
How is Onychomycosis Treated?
The most effective way to treat this condition is to get a prescription from your doctor. Your doctor will prescribe you an antifungal medication that addresses systematically. In addition, you may be prescribed ointments that you can apply to the affected area.
If you find that the cause of the onychomycosis is from pre-existing health issues, you will need to address these issues and treat the fungal infection at the same time. You’ll need to work with your doctor to figure out why you’ve become infected if regular treatment does not work.
Post Care is Important as Well
One of the most annoying parts of dealing with onychomycosis is the fact that it can come back again. For some people, it becomes a recurring issue due to various health problems. You need to take care of your nails properly after treatment to keep your nails healthy. Here are some things you should do:
– Make sure you wash your hands and feet regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria
– Avoid clipping your nails too short. You also want to disinfect the nail clippers every time you use them
– If you have issues with your feet, change socks two or three times a day
– Choose shoes that are breathable and comfortable. Strain and pressure can make the condition worse
– Continue using topical ointments for a couple of days after the fungal infection has gone away
– Look for a nail repair solution if your nails have become damaged due to the infection
Onychomycosis is an annoying condition to deal with and can keep coming back. You want to make sure you treat it right away and do everything to prevent reoccurrence. And if it is stubborn, work with your doctor as there may be other health issues that may be causing it.