Toenail Fungus Information
SIGNS OF TOENAIL FUNGUS
At the first sign of
toenail fungus, sufferers are
already in pain. Tenderness in the toenail or an unpleasant odor are
symptoms of this nail-infecting nuisance. If left untreated, toenail
fungus can quickly become a serious problem leading to permanent nail
damage, spreading the fungi to other nails or an additional infection. A
white or yellow spot found on the tip of the nail may indicate the
presence of toenail fungus, as can a discoloration or thickening of the
nail. The discoloration comes from bacteria that is forming underneath
the nail and is very difficult to overlook. Many sufferers will attempt
to conceal the infection with nail polish, but this is not advisable as
these products can often trap the bacteria and cause it to worsen.
Toenail fungus can often be diagnosed as brittle or crumbling nails.
Of all known nail disorders, nail fungus is responsible for half.
Because it can often be difficult to treat, the best way to effectively
fight toenail fungus is to detect is early and begin a treatment regimen
that works to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection. Nails that
are distorted in shape or seem to be dull and lusterless are also common
signs of toenail fungus.
A qualified medical doctor will be able to properly diagnose toenail
fungus by first examining the area and scraping a portion of the debris
under the nails for further studies. Once taken, the sample will be
examined by the physician or a laboratory technician, under a microscope
or similar equipment in order to make a final determination. If the
results show toenail fungus is present, the physician will typically
prescribe an anti-fungal cream or other medication for immediate
treatment.
The best way to avoid having to watch for signs of toenail fungus is to
take preventative steps in order to make sure you are not allowing
yourself to be in an environment that may increase the chances of
contracting the bacteria. One such way is to keep both the fingernails
and toenails clean and short. This will eliminate extra room for
bacteria to form and worsen. In addition, keeping the nails dry after
hand-washing, showers and swimming will also help to prevent toenail
fungus. It’s also important to remember that when visiting a nail salon,
the customer must make sure that the salon is properly disinfecting
their equipment. Because these same utensils are used to treat the nails
of various individuals, it is possible to spread bacteria if the salon
products are not properly cleaned.
