Toenail fungus is a fairly common disease that is contagious in nature. It is formed by mycotic organisms: molds, yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida and dermatomycetes.
Scientists say there are more than fifty species of fungi that can cause toenail disease. At the same time, you need to understand that the fight against toenail fungus will not be easy, this is due to the features of the disease and its focus.
If we consider the statistics, about 20 percent 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 infection with microorganisms of the mycotic type. Often they turn into dermatomycetes. A large number of enzymes help microorganisms easily penetrate the nail and skin. First 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 only a person or an animal, but also personal hygiene items, places with large crowds of people, especially shared showers, baths, swimming pools, etc.
Relation. Also, the cause of the development of the fungus is excessive sweating (this disease is called hyperhidrosis), metabolic disorders, diabetes of any kind, HIV, extra pounds, poor functioning of the immune system, taking certain drugs, antibiotics and contraceptives.
The fungus quickly takes root on the skin and nails of people who abuse sweets, disrupting the endocrine system.
The mycologist is engaged in the treatment of such a disease, it may also be necessary to visit a dermatologist.
symptoms of the fungus
3 steps
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, the symptoms of the disease often do not appear at all. On the nail itself, barely noticeable, almost transparent spots can appear. These streaks or spots can indicate the presence of a fungus, so it is better to see a doctor and start treatment sooner or refute your suspicions.
- In the second phase, the natural shine of the nail disappears, later it begins to discolor, becomes dull, and more yellow, brown stripes or spots appear on the nail plate. The top part of the nail may change.
- In the third case, the disease affects the nail completely and it begins to break and peel off, the cuticle can become inflamed, and the fungus can also affect neighboring toenails and even the skin.
The second and third stages can be perceived by themselves, this no longer requires special tests or diagnostics.
Outer Signs
External signs of fungus can be designated as follows:
- the nail turns yellow or even brown;
- there are streaks or spots on the plate;
- The nail becomes looser and denser, but at the same time it quickly breaks and peels off.
Attention. In some cases, a person cannot comfortably wear closed shoes and suffers from pain and severe itching. Symptoms such as burning, tingling, inflamed lesions, dry skin, peeling around the nail, etc. can also indicate the fungus.
Treatment and remedies for fungi
Relation. More recently, nail fungus could only be cured with the help of surgery to remove the entire nail plate. However, in rare cases, such an operation was effective: a new nail could grow already infected.
If the nail is only slightly damaged, doctors may prescribe special antifungal medications and ointments to be applied to the affected area. Modern medicine offers improved transparent varnishes that will help to cope with the disease in a short time. If the lesion is in the third stage, the patient may be prescribed an antibiotic in the form of tablets for oral use.
Folk methods and recipes
Many patients cope with this unpleasant disease with the help of traditional medicine. Below we describe in detail what folk remedies are used to combat athlete's foot.
Vinegar
You can use 9 percent acetic acid or applesauce. Fungal pathogens do not like an acidic environment, and vinegar helps prevent the reproduction of harmful microorganisms.
It can be used as a bath or compress, and it is better to treat not only the affected area, but the entire foot, shoes and clothes. Vinegar therapy is not suitable for people with wounds and cracked skin on the legs, as there is a strong burning sensation during the treatment. The simplest compress: vinegar 9 percent and water in a ratio of 1 to 8.
vegetable juices
Lubricate the affected area with onion juice, it should 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 crushed with a meat grinder.
Essential Oils
Another effective folk method is various essential oils that can be added to foot baths and applied directly to the nail plate. It can be essential oil of lavender, rosemary, tea tree oil and others.
How to cure nail fungus fast
Some plants can also help treat fungus. The effect of their use will be felt quickly.
propolis
Propolis is an effective and fast-acting ingredient in treating 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 moisten a cotton swab with a 20% solution and apply it directly to the nail plate itself, put a dry cotton pad on top and bandage your finger. The lotion must be used throughout the day without removing it. After that, remove the softened nail. Repeat the process until full recovery.
celandine
In the 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. Cool and strain the resulting medicine. Put celandine in a foot bath and soak in it for 15 minutes. The process must be repeated twice a day.
prevention
- Never use other people's hygiene products, especially pedicure paraphernalia.
- Don't wear someone else's shoes.
- Use rubber slippers in places like the pool or sauna.
- Feet should be thoroughly wiped with a towel after showering.
- Keep an eye on your immune system, your weight and your blood sugar.
- Never use wet shoes.
- Socks, tights or stockings should be changed daily.
- Take care of your feet regularly.
Conclusion
Remember that in the initial 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 nail fungus, you should see a doctor immediately.