Nail Fungus

The condition of nail fungus infection can be initially identified with its classic symptoms of a discolored nail. This infective condition is commonly known as onychomycosis which affects both the toenail and fingernails. The culprit of this infection is usually a fungal microscopic organism that thrives in a warm, moist and dark environment known as dermatophytes although yeasts can also initiate the nail infection to occur.

Nail fungus infection affect toenails more than the fingernail. This may be primarily due to frequent exposure of the toenails to warm and moist conditions as when the foot is wearing socks and shoes. The nail usually presents a white or yellow spots which eventually progressed to a discolored nail of brown or black. The nail often becomes brittle or thickened. To a more progressive nail fungal infection, the nail may be separated from the nail bed and this condition can be so painful that a person cannot tolerate wearing shoes with difficulty in walking.

Treating nail fungus may be difficult once it is on its progressive condition. Topical medicines prescribed for treating nail fungus infection is often less beneficial. This is because the fungus that causes nail infections usually is embedded deep into the nails which are basically hard for any topical creams and ointment to reach.

Oral antifungal medications are more preferable when making an attempt of treating nail fungus infection. There are three common oral medications prescribed which are effective in treating infection by nail fungus namely Diflucan, Sporanox and Lamisil. These oral medications aid in the growth of new nails without any thriving fungus. Taken 6 to 12 weeks the result usually becomes obvious for up to 4 months when new nails have grown and the infection has been fully eliminated.

Treating nail fungus will not provide a complete remission from infection as recurrent infection can possibly occur when the affected nail continues to become exposed in moist environment. Treating nail fungus with antifungal medication is used with extreme caution to people with liver disease because of the side effects that can possibly occur such as skin rashes and liver damage.

Other possible ways of treating nail fungus is the prescription of an antifungal nail polish. This can be painted over the nails and the surrounding skins. But this treatment is not proven to provide better cure and fast relief from infection by nail fungus. Topical medication is not as effective as oral medications however they are often used in conjunction to oral medications used for treating nail fungus.

The most effective way of treating nail fungus is early detection and treatment. This means protecting nails from getting moist by keeping the nails dry. Once the infection is discovered it is empirical to seek medical help immediately as the infection can spread to other nails.

Tags: health, treatment, nails, skin, fungus, nail fungus, symptoms