Toenail fungus is a fairly common disease that has an infectious nature. It develops due to fungal organisms: mold, yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida and dermatomycetes.
Scientists say that there are more than fifty types of fungus 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 focal point.
If we take into account the statistics, then about 20 percent of the world's population is faced with this deviation and a similar deformation of the nail.
fungal causes
The main reason for the appearance of the fungus is infection with microorganisms of the fungal species. They often develop into dermatomycetes. A large number of enzymes help microorganisms to easily penetrate the nails and skin. First of all, they affect the feet, and then they 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 with large crowds of people, especially common showers, bathrooms, swimming pools, etc.
Reference. Also, the cause of the development of the fungus is excessive sweating (this disease is called hyperhidrosis), metabolic disorders, diabetes of any kind, HIV, extra pounds, malfunctions of the immune system, taking certain medications, antibiotics and contraceptives.
The fungus quickly takes root in the skin and nails of people who abuse sweets, disrupting 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 early 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 may indicate the presence of a fungus, so it is best to consult a doctor and start treatment sooner, or disprove your suspicions.
- In the second stage, the natural shine of the nail disappears, then it begins to change color, becomes dull, and more yellow and brown streaks or spots form on the nail surface. The top of the nail can change.
- In the third, the disease completely affects the nail and begins to break and exfoliate, the cuticle can become inflamed, and the fungus can also affect neighboring nails 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
External signs of fungus can be called as follows:
- the nail turns yellow or even brown;
- there are streaks or stains on the plate;
- the nail loosens and becomes denser, but at the same time quickly breaks and exfoliates.
Attention. In some cases, a person cannot comfortably wear closed shoes, suffers from pain and severe itching. Also, symptoms like burning, tingling, inflamed lesions, dry skin, peeling around the nail, etc. they can talk about the fungus.
Treatment and remedies for fungus.
Reference. More recently, nail fungus could only be cured with the help of surgery, when the entire surface of the nail was removed. However, in rare cases, such an operation was effective - a new nail could grow already infected.
If the damage to the nail is minor, doctors may prescribe special antifungal medications and ointments to be applied to the affected area. Modern medicine offers improved transparent varnishes 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.
Popular methods and recipes.
Many patients cope with this unpleasant disease with the help of traditional medicine. Next, we will describe in detail what folk remedies are used to combat foot fungus.
Vinegar
You can use 9 percent acetic acid or 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 compress, and it is better to treat not only the affected area, but the entire foot, shoes and clothes. Acetic therapy is not suitable for those who have wounds and cracks in the skin of the legs, as a strong burning sensation will occur during 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 chopped using a meat grinder.
Essential oils
Another effective folk method is various essential oils that can be added to foot baths, as well as applied directly to the nail plate. It can be essential oil of lavender, rosemary, tea tree oil and others.
How to cure nail fungus fast
Some plants can also help in the treatment of fungus. The effect of its use will be quickly noticeable.
Propolis
Propolis is an effective and fast-acting component in the treatment of toenail fungus. At the same time, it not only helps to eliminate harmful microorganisms, but also reduces discomfort, relieves burning and redness. The most effective way is to moisten a cotton swab with a 20% solution and apply it directly to the nail surface, place a dry cotton ball on top and bandage the finger. The lotion should be used throughout the day, without removing. After that, remove the softened nail. Repeat the procedure until complete recovery.
Celandine
In 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 simmered for ten minutes. Refrigerate the resulting drug and strain. Pour celandine into a foot bath and soak in 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.
- Wear rubber slippers in places like the pool or sauna.
- Feet after shower should be thoroughly wiped with a towel.
- Keep track of your immune system, weight, and blood sugar.
- Never wear wet shoes.
- Socks, tights, or stockings should be changed every day.
- Take regular care of your feet.
conclusion
Remember that in the initial stages of the disease it is much easier to cure the fungus, so you need to monitor the condition of your nails. If you suspect a nail fungus, you should immediately see a doctor.