Nail Fungus Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Nail fungus, or also known as the medical term onychomycosis, is a disorder that can occur in both the fingernails and toes.
Generally, this condition begins with the appearance of white or yellowish dots on the fingertips. Over time, the white or yellowish dots of the toenail fungus will cause discoloration, thickening, or peeling on the sides
Not only at one location of the finger, but nail fungus can also occur in several nails simultaneously
Symptom
A person can be considered to have nail fungus if one or more of the fingernails or toenails shows the following symptoms:
- Nail thickening
- Discoloration becomes whiter or brownish yellow
- Brittle, jagged nails and bits of nails that break easily
- Change in the shape of the nails
- The dark color is caused by dirt buildup under the nails
- Sharp smell
- Pain or discomfort, especially when there is pressure on the infected finger
Reason
Nail fungus can be caused by many types of fungi. The type of fungus most often encountered as a cause of nail problems is dermatophytes. In addition, yeast can also cause infection in the nails.
Nail fungus can occur at any age, but is more common in the elderly population. As you get older, your nails become drier and more brittle. This makes it easier for the fungus to enter the nails.
Another factor is reduced blood circulation to the area of the feet or hands and decreased body resistance also plays a role in growing nail fungus.
Some risk factors that can increase the occurrence of nail fungus are:
- Old age, which results in decreased blood circulation and slower nail growth.
- Increased sweat production.
- History of fungal infection of the feet.
- The habit of walking barefoot in areas prone to the spread of fungi such as swimming pools, public baths, and similar places.
- There is an injury to the skin or nails.
- Presence of diabetes problems, circulation disorders, or decreased immune system.
Diagnosis
Determination of the diagnosis of nail fungus is based on medical interviews, direct physical examination, and certain supporting examinations.
Investigations that can be carried out are generally in the form of taking samples of infected nail tissue. The tissue will be further evaluated using a microscope to determine the type of fungus that causes nail problems.
Treatment
Treatment for nail fungus depends on the severity of the infection. Treatment may include the use of antifungal medications, which can be administered orally (taken by mouth) and/or topically (applied directly to the nails).
Generally, the drug is consumed 6–12 weeks. The results of this treatment cannot be seen immediately until the nails grow back. Apart from that, the doctor can also recommend the use of certain nail creams or nail ointments
If the treatment proves ineffective, a nail removal procedure may be performed so that antifungal medication can be administered directly to the infected tissue under the nail.
Prevention
There are several preventive steps that can be taken to prevent nail fungus from occurring, such as the following:
- Wash hands and feet thoroughly every day.
- Keep hands and feet dry.
- Use socks. If socks get damp, take them off immediately or change socks to keep feet dry.
- Use comfortable sandals or shoes to avoid moisture on your feet.
- Avoid exchanging other people’s shoes, socks, nail clippers or nail cleaners.