Fungal Nail Infection

A fungal Nail Infection (or onychomycosis) is usually caused by fungi that are found in the environment and seldom by candida. Such an infection is not rare as around 14% of the general population might be infected, usually in their toenails. 

Patients with diabetes and weakened immune system are prone to such an infection but equally anyone with a careless hygiene routine e.g. ignoring keeping hands and feet dry, walking barefoot in wet public rooms, sharing tools such as nail clippers, etc., actions that get worse with sweating and age. 

Most patients believe that any  fungal Nail Infection will pass away especially if treated with drugs often advertised on TV and the radio. However, the sad truth is that the therapy depends on the type of fungus that has colonised the infected area. 

What you should check out for 

If you see any white or yellowish spot under the tip of the nail, you should visit your dermatologist immediately. Needless to say that you should also visit your dermatologist in case you observe your nails becoming thick, fragile, or cracked. As the infection spreads, the last stage results into the nail falling off. 

Most of the fungal nail infections are not serious but if they are not treated in time and effectively, the surrounding skin area might be affected too and that is painful and a gate for the entry of more fungi and microbes. 

You need to be patient and meticulous regarding your nail fungal treatment routine to avoid any re-infection. As an average, nail fungus treatment plans last from 4 to 6 months.

Clinical examination is enough regarding most of the nail fungal infection cases but in severe or persisting cases, laboratory testing is necessary to customise the treatment in terms of drugs and frequency of application. If such a procedure is decided, a part of the infected nail is clipped off and sent to a laboratory for microscopy and culture that will confirm the diagnosis and the type of fungus. 

Do not delay the therapy of a fungal nail infection resorting to drugs and methods advertised without visiting a dermatologist. 

Mind your health and follow the effective customised therapy (medication and daily care routines) a dermatologist can advise you for after the right diagnosis.