Nail fungus is a fairly common disease that has an infectious nature. It develops due to mycotic organisms: mold, yeast fungi of the genus Candida and dermatomycetes.
Scientists say that there are more than fifty types of fungi that can cause toenail disease. At the same time, you should understand that the fight against nail fungus will not be easy, due to the characteristics of the disease and its focal point.
If we take statistics into account, about 20% of the world's population faces this deviation and a similar deformation of the nail.
Causes of fungi
The main reason for the appearance of the fungus is the infection by microorganisms of the mycotic species. They often become dermatomycetes. A large number of enzymes help microorganisms to easily penetrate the nail and skin. Firstly, they affect the feet and then move to the nails.
The infection itself occurs after contact with the carrier of the disease. It can be not just a person or an animal, but also personal hygiene items, places of large gathering of people, especially common showers, bathtubs, 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, malfunctioning of the immune system, use of certain medications, antibiotics and contraceptives.
The fungus quickly takes root in the skin and nails of people who abuse sweets, which disrupts the endocrine system.
The mycologist is involved in the treatment of such a disease, it may also be necessary to visit a dermatologist.
fungus symptoms
3 stages
At different stages of the disease, the symptoms of nail fungus can be completely different:
- In the first stage, which is also called the early stage, symptoms of the disease usually do not appear. Almost imperceptible, almost transparent stains can appear on the nail itself. These streaks or spots could indicate the presence of a fungus, so it's best to see a doctor and start treatment sooner, or disprove your suspicions.
- In the second stage, the natural shine of the nail disappears, then it starts to change color, it becomes dull and more yellow, streaks or brown spots form on the nail plate. The top of the nail may change.
- In the third, the disease completely affects the nail and it starts to break and exfoliate, the cuticle can become inflamed and the fungus can also affect the neighboring nails and even the skin.
The second and third stages can be noticed on their own, this does not require further tests or special diagnoses.
external signals
External signs of fungi can be called as follows:
- the nail turns yellow or even brown;
- there are streaks or stains on the plate;
- the nail becomes loose and denser, but at the same time it breaks and exfoliates quickly.
Heads up. In some cases, a person cannot wear closed shoes comfortably, suffering from severe pain and itching. Also, symptoms like burning, tingling, inflamed lesions, dry skin, peeling around the nail and so on can speak of the fungus.
Fungal treatment and remedies
Reference. More recently, nail fungus could only be cured with the help of surgery, when the entire nail plate was removed. However, in rare cases, such an operation was effective: a new nail can grow already infected.
If the damage to the nail is minor, doctors may prescribe antifungal medications and special ointments that should be applied to the affected area. Modern medicine offers improved clear varnishes that help to deal with the disease in a short time. If the lesion is in the third stage, the patient may be given an antibiotic in the form of oral tablets.
Popular methods and recipes
Many patients deal with this unpleasant disease with the help of traditional medicine. Below, we will describe in detail which folk remedies are used to fight foot fungus.
Vinegar
You can use 9% acetic acid or apple solution. Fungal pathogens do not like an acidic environment, and vinegar helps prevent harmful microorganisms from breeding.
It can be used as a bath or compress, and it is best to treat not just the affected area, but the entire foot, shoes, and clothing. Acetic therapy is not suitable for those who have wounds and cracks in the skin of their legs, as a strong burning sensation will occur during treatment. The simplest compress: 9% vinegar and water, in a ratio of 1 to 8.
vegetable juices
Lubricate the affected area with onion juice, it must 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.
Essencial oils
Another popular effective method is various essential oils that can be added to foot baths as well as applied directly to the nail plate. It can be lavender essential oil, rosemary, tea tree oil and others.
How to cure nail fungus fast
Some plants can also help treat 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 get rid of harmful microorganisms, but also reduces discomfort, relieves burning and redness. The most effective way is to wet a cotton swab with a 20% solution and apply it directly to the nail itself, place a dry cotton 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 boiled over low heat for ten minutes. Refrigerate the resulting medicine 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 flip-flops in places like a swimming pool or sauna.
- Feet after bathing should be carefully wiped with a towel.
- Track your immune system, weight and blood sugar.
- Never wear wet shoes.
- Socks, tights or socks must be changed every day.
- Take care of your feet regularly.
Conclusion
Remember that in the early 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, see a doctor immediately.