Category: Toenail Fungus

Toenail Onychomycosis infections (TOI) or toenail fungal infections (TFI). These infections can be a nuisance or a major problem in someone’s life. It is about the time required to address it, finding a treatment option that works for you, its psychological and social effects, and how embarrassing and embarrassing it can be.

However, the good news is that the more you understand about TFI and how it can be managed and treated, the easier it will become to treat and find a cure. This guide will provide all the information you need and point you in the right direction to treat your TFI.

Remember that working with your doctor will make a big difference in your ability to address TFI. By learning as much about TFI as possible and how to manage it, you can be an active participant in your own treatment. You must understand that there is no substitute to a medical diagnosis and a treatment plan. We will be referring to the importance of speaking with your family doctor, dermatologist, or podiatrist throughout this article.

What is a toenail infection?

Onychomycosis can be described as a fungal infection that affects the fingernails and toenails. It is a common and treatable condition that can be contagious. Up to half of all nail problems are caused by it. Without treatment, onychomycosis can become progressive. However, early diagnosis, treatment and proper detection can increase your chances of success. This will also prevent any long-term nail damage.

Most often, dermatophytes or fungi are responsible for toenail fungus. The fungus invades the nail from the free edge, and then spreads to the base. Fungal infections can also be caused by this organism. It is possible for fungal infections to spread from skin to nails or vice versa. Toenails are more susceptible to fungal infections than fingers. This is because fungi thrive in warm and moist conditions that are often associated with wearing socks and shoes.

Who are toenail fungal infections?

Everyone is susceptible to fungus, but there are some risk factors that can increase the likelihood of getting infected. Being active can expose you to conditions that make contact with fungus more likely. Fungal infections can also be increased by certain health and genetic factors.

• Seniors 55 and older
• People with reduced blood circulation
• Persons with a history of injury to the nails or infection
• People with a weak immune system (HIV/AIDS and diabetes)

Toenail fungus infections can also be transmitted from one person to the next.

What are the social and psychological effects of toenail-fungus infections?

Toenail fungus infection (TFI) can cause severe pain and complications. TFI treatment can be more complicated than just treating the infection.

TFI can cause emotional distress and have a negative impact on one’s quality life. According to Leger 360, half of Canadians who responded to a survey said they had changed their behavior by not wearing sandals or going barefoot because of the appearance of their toenails. Nearly two-thirds (or more) of respondents with toenail fungus said they felt embarrassed about their condition.

Many people with nail fungus feel very self-conscious about their nails, especially in the summer. Nail fungus can be embarrassing and cause sufferers to quit activities like yoga or swimming to hide their toenails.

Your family physician and dermatologist will be grateful if you are honest and open about your feelings, both physically and emotionally. You will find that your condition is not unique and you are not the only one. They will also be able help you understand why your feelings are valid.

Fungal nail infections can cause mobility and pain problems. It can make it difficult to walk, exercise, or wear closed shoes. It is important to seek treatment immediately if the infection has not spread to other toenails, or others in your vicinity.

Take control of your health and address issues such as TFI that can affect your happiness every day. Your best advocate for your health is you.

What are the causes of toenail fungus?

Tissue infections such as toenail fungus (TFI), can result from the same type of fungi as those that cause athlete’s foot and jock itch. These fungi thrive in warm and moist environments so it is natural that swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower rooms are all common places of exposure.

TFI infections are more common in the feet than in the hands. This is likely due to the warm and moist environment that feet create when wearing socks and shoes, and because we don’t wash our feet as frequently as our hands. Your immune system will be less able to combat the fungi that your feet are exposed to because there is less blood circulation. TFI can also be caused by:

• Minor skin or nail injuries
• Nail defects or diseases
• Long-term exposure to moist conditions
• Use tools that were used on others
• Closed-in footwear that isn’t breathable
• Poor blood circulation, diabetes or a weak immune system are all possible

Are Toenail Fungus Infections Contagious

TFI can be contagious but should not cause panic. To spread fungal infections, you can share nail clippers and nail cosmetics with others. You also have the option to walk barefoot around public swimming pools or locker rooms. Toenail fungus can spread from person to person, between families, and from one toe to the next.

How can you diagnose toenail fungus?

Temporary changes in the appearance of your nails shouldn’t be cause for alarm, as they are a common site for injury. Fungal nail infections are responsible for almost 50% of all nail problems. However, there are other conditions that can also affect nails and may look like a nail infection. These conditions require different treatment.

It is best to see a doctor if the nail appearance changes for more than 2 weeks. Your doctor will most likely:

Do a physical exam.

Sometimes, a simple exam can help diagnose the problem. Your doctor will assess the severity of the infection and look for signs like:

• The affected nail may become discolored
• Nail brittleness
• The nail becomes yellowish and begins to crumble.
• Sub-Nail Debris
• Mild thickening may occur.

Test a sample.

A sample may be taken from under the nail or clipped by your doctor.

To be tested in a laboratory. These tests will determine if it is a fungal infection and the type of fungus so the doctor can prescribe the best treatment.

Refer to a specialist.

TFI management may involve a number of healthcare professionals. For further treatment, your family doctor or general practitioner may recommend you see a foot specialist (such a podiatrist or chiropodist or foot care nurse), or a skin- and nail specialist (dermatologist).

Are you suffering from a toenail infection?

TFI is more than a cosmetic issue. It can also be contagious and cause discomfort, pain, mobility problems, and other serious complications.

Toenail fungus can be diagnosed by looking at the appearance of your nails. These are some simple questions that can help you determine if you need to see a doctor.

• Are your nails looking brittle?
• Is the nail shape changing?
• Are the edges of the nails crumbling?
• Is there any debris under the nail?
• Is the nail loose or lifting?
• Is the nail getting thicker?
• Are you noticing white streaks or yellow streaks in your skin?
• Do your nails lack shine and are they dull?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions and notice changes in the appearance of your nails for more than two weeks, you should consult your doctor for a diagnosis and guidance on the best treatment.

Toenail fungus infections can become more difficult to treat if not treated quickly. Toenail fungus infections may spread to other skin conditions if left untreated. They can also cause permanent damage to the nails and possibly lead to paronychia, a skin condition that affects the area around the nails.

What are the best ways to treat toenail fungus?

Prevention

There are many factors that have contributed to an increase in nail fungus, including skin infections, previous injuries, poor circulation, smoking and other medical conditions. However, these infections can be prevented by using the tips below:

• Make sure your feet are dry and clean
• Avoid acrylic nail polish and nail polish (to prevent air from reaching the surface).
• Do not walk barefoot in public pools, locker rooms, and showers.
• Regularly change your socks and shoes
• Clip nails short and straight across
• Shoes made from breathable materials and socks should be well-fitting
• Use disinfectant to clean clippers and other instruments that are used for nail treatment

Treatment

There are many ways to treat toenail fungal infections. TFI is often treated with a combination or a variety of medications. It is worth taking the time to understand your options.

This guide will give you an overview of all the treatments that are available and group them into the following categories.

• Topical Treatments
• Oral or systemic treatments
• Laser and physical treatments

Oral and topical treatment options

The three main categories of toenail fungus treatment that doctors have prescribed or administered are TOPICAL TREATMENT (or ORAL TREATMENT), and PHYSICAL TREAMENT (or both).

Evidence suggests that using a combination treatment may improve the effectiveness of the treatment and reduce the likelihood of recurrence. To increase your chances of finding a cure, your doctor might recommend both oral and topical treatment.

This chart lists the available topical and oral prescription treatments for toenail fungal infections. It also includes key criteria that you may find important.

[TABLE]

* No studies have been conducted

There are many other over-the-counter, non-prescription, and natural health products that you can purchase. This brochure only contains information about prescription drugs available in Canada.

Although fungal infections are difficult to treat, there are many treatment options to help you get rid of your toenail-fungus infection (TFI). The type of treatment you choose depends on your condition, the severity of your infection, and the advice of your doctor. You can benefit from a candid discussion with your doctor about the best course of action.

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments can be applied directly to the nails affected and have a local effect. This means that they are effective against the fungi and nail bed. Topical treatments have one major drawback: they must penetrate the tough nail plates in order to fully treat the infection. Newer topical treatments are designed to penetrate the nail.

Safety: Topical treatments do not interact with any other medications as they are not absorbed in large amounts. The side effects of topical treatments are less likely to cause severe side effects and are typically limited to the area they are applied.

Topical nail fungus treatments are Jublia (efinaconazole), and Penlac (ciclopirox).

Jublia is available in Canada from 2014 and contains efinaconazole (10%) in a clear solution that can be applied topically. Jublia is a prescription medication that’s applied topically to the toenail to treat an onychomycosis (fungal infection) caused by certain fungal species.

Side effects include reddening, itching, burning, or stinging around the toenail.

There have never been studies on drug interactions.

Penlac (ciclopirox topal solution, 8 % w/w), is available as a nail varnish. Penlac, a prescription medication that treats mild to moderate nail fungal disease in Canada, is now available. It comes with a treatment plan that includes frequent removal of infected nails.

Common side effects include skin reddening around the nails, nail disorders like shape change, irritation and ingrown toenails and discoloration, application spot reaction, burning sensation, dry and itchy skin.

Drug Interactions: No studies have been conducted.

Oral or systemic treatments

Oral treatments have a systemic impact, which means that the medication is carried to the nail bed by the bloodstream without having to penetrate the hardened nail plate. Oral treatments are often required for severe fungal nail infections.

Safety: Oral antifungal medication can interact with other medications and cause liver damage.

There are two product options: Lamisil (terbinafine), and Sporanox, (itraconazole).

Since 1993, Lamisil (terbinafine), has been available in Canada. The 250mg tablet is an oral antifungal medication. Lamisil, a prescription medication used to treat fungal infections in the nails (toes and fingers), is available from a doctor.

Side effects include headaches, nausea, mild abdominal pains, heartburn, diarrhea and swelling or bloating.

Lamisil tablets may cause liver problems in rare instances. In very rare cases, liver problems can lead to liver failure or death. If you experience jaundice (yellowness or swelling of the skin or eyes), stop taking Lamisil tablets.

Drug interactions: These are just a few of the drugs that can interact with Lamisil. This is not an exhaustive list.

• Some antibiotics
• Some antidepressants include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonine receptor inhibitors, including classes 1A, 1B, and 1C, and monoamine oxidase inhibits Type B and desipramine.
• Antiarrhythmics are medicines that treat irregular heart rhythms. These include propafenone (amiodarone), and amiodarone (amiodarone).
• High blood pressure medications such as beta-blockers like metroprolol, are some of the medicines that can be used.
• Theophylline is used to treat asthmatic bronchospasm.
• There are some medicines that can be used to treat the symptoms of cough, such as dextromethorphan.
• The drug cyclosporine is used to suppress the immune system and prevent rejection of transplants
• St. John’s Wort [Hypericum Perforatum], an herbal medicine that is used to treat depression

Sporanox (itraconazole), an oral antifungal medication, is available in 100mg capsules. Sporanox(r) is a prescription medication that treats fungal infections of nails. It has been available in Canada since 1993.

Side effects include skin rash, liver and high triglyceride tests, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, vomiting, stomach pain, constipation, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach pain, stomach swelling, generalized swelling and unpleasant taste.

Side effects are possible, though uncommon:

• Liver toxicity
• Cardiac toxicities

Drug interactions: Sporanox(r), capsules can interact with a wide range of drugs. If you’re taking any of these medications, Sporanox capsules should not be taken.

• Methadone, quinidine and dofetilide can cause dangerous or even fatal abnormal heartbeats.
• HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, such as simvastatin or lovastatin, can lead to potentially severe breakdown of muscle tissue
• Midazolam (oral) and triazolam (oral), which can worsen or prolong drowsiness
• Ergot alkaloids, such as dihydroergotamine (ergonovine), ergotamine (ergonovine), and methylergonovine, could cause a severe or even fatal decrease in blood flow to the brain, and/or limbs (ischemia).
• Eletripan, a migraine drug, can cause serious side effects.
• High blood pressure or crushing chest pain (angina) can be treated with nisoldipine, eplerenone, and felodipine.
• Irinotecan is an anti-cancer drug
• Lurasidone is an antipsychotic drug
• Colchine is a medication to treat gout when it’s administered to patients with liver or kidney impairment.

Laser and physical treatments

Laser treatment

The potential treatment of fungal infections may be possible with lasers, photodynamic therapy and diode light. This is a new area. The treatment of fungal infections with light therapies is done in a hospital. They can be quite expensive. Medical evidence indicates that laser therapy alone is not effective for treating fungal nail infections. Talk to your doctor about whether this is the best option for you.

Physical treatment

Sometimes, it may be necessary to remove the entire nail or a portion of it. It is possible to perform the procedure in your doctor’s office. The process is painless and relatively quick. Physical therapy by itself will not remove the fungus from the nail or kill it. This is done so that you can apply topical treatments directly to the affected nail or nail bed.

What can I expect from treatment?

It can be difficult to treat toenail fungus. It is important to have patience and realistic expectations about the treatment. Talk to your pharmacist and doctor about the best way to approach the outcome.

Your treatment’s duration and side effects. Unrealistic expectations can lead to dissatisfaction or poor compliance. This could increase the chance of recurrence or the risk that the infection will be transmitted to others.

Treatment Length

The appearance of the nail that has been damaged will not change until it grows out and is replaced with a new one. Toenails can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months to grow out and then be replaced with a healthy one. Topical treatments can be used for up to a year, while oral treatments may take several months to restore normal nail growth.

It may take some time for you to notice any difference if you start taking TFI medication. Follow the instructions of your doctor and let him/her be aware if there are any concerns or questions about the results.

Treatment Results

Although fungal nail infections are not always curable, recurrences are not uncommon. Your physician can monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

How do I get rid of my toenail-fungus infection?

This article should have answered most of your questions regarding toenail fungal infections (TFI). It will also help you understand your condition better and make it easier to talk to your doctor.

You’ll likely start with your family doctor, or a general practitioner. However, you might be referred to a specialist in foot care (podiatrists, chiropodists, foot care nurses) or skincare (dermatologist). These are some tips to help you prepare for your appointment.

• Note down all symptoms that are not related to your nail condition. This may influence your doctor’s treatment options.
• Note down important personal information. Certain conditions like diabetes, cancer, HIV/AIDS, and psoriasis may make you more susceptible to infection, or can even prevent you from receiving treatment.
• Take a list of all the medications, vitamins, creams, and supplements that you are currently taking or have used previously. Be as detailed as possible.
• If possible, bring a friend or family member along. It can sometimes be difficult to absorb all of the information given to you at an appointment. You might forget something or someone who is there to help you.
• Write down any questions you want to ask your doctor.

You can rest assured that your doctor will be able find the right treatment plan for you if you have made an appointment to discuss a possible TFI.

What are the most important questions I should ask my doctor?

A list of questions can help you maximize your time with your doctor. Toenail fungus infections (TFI), are a few of the most common questions you can ask.

• What could be causing my symptoms?
• Is it normal for my TFI to have an impact on my self-confidence, and overall happiness?
• Which diagnostic tests are necessary?
• What are my treatment options
• What next if the first treatment fails?
• What will the treatment do for my physical symptoms and signs?
• What treatment will I need for the long-term?
• What side effects might be possible with the medication you recommend?
• How can you track my response to treatment?
• These are my other conditions. What can I do to manage them all?
• Are there any restrictions that I must follow?
• Do I need to see a specialist? (If applicable)
• Which websites or resources do you recommend for more information?

Ask your doctor any questions about your condition.

These are some helpful resources

These are some other resources you might find useful in your search for information about toenail fungus (toenail infection) or skin care resources.

• Canadian Nail Fungus Resource: www.nailfungus.ca
• Skin Care Guide: www.skincareguide.ca
• Canadian Dermatology Association: www.dermatology.ca
• Canadian Skin Patient Alliance (CSPA), www.canadianskin.ca
• Toenail Fungus Infections Program e-newsletter Register at Nailfungus.ca

Questions frequently asked

Who gets nail fungus

Toenail fungus can be contracted by anyone. Toenail fungus is more common in children than it is in adults. As we age, our immune systems weaken and blood circulation decreases, making the body more vulnerable to fungal infections. Patients who have had a nail injury or suffer from diabetes or psoriasis, are more at risk.

How can you prevent nail fungus from happening?

Fungi can be found everywhere. While it’s impossible to eliminate all possibilities of infection, there are steps you can take to lower your risk.

• Do not share your nail tools, such as nail clippers and nail brushes.
• Shoes that are too tight or restrict airflow should be avoided
• Slippers and flip flops are not recommended in high-risk areas such as communal showers, public swimming pools, spas, saunas, or other public spaces.
• Particularly after playing sports, wash your hands and feet frequently.
• Diabetes or psoriasis? Take extra caution
• Make sure your feet are dry and clean

Is it possible to catch nail fungus in others?

Yes, it is possible to get the infection from other people. You can spread the fungal infection by sharing nail clippers and nail cosmetics. Public swimming pools are another common spot for fungal infections.

Why is it that I keep getting fungal infections, while others don’t seem to have them?

While there are many reasons for this, it is most likely that you are more vulnerable to fungal infections. You may also be more susceptible to fungal infections due to your genetic susceptibility, weaker immune system, or being exposed to public places like gyms and swimming pools. Athletes often come in contact with conditions that make fungal infections more likely. Patients with diabetes, psoriasis or weak immune systems are more susceptible to nail infections.

If it isn’t painful, can I ignore nail fungus?

You should see a doctor if you suspect you may have a nail infection. While serious complications from nail fungus infections can be rare, they should be treated immediately to prevent permanent damage to the nails and spread to other toenails. It is best to treat an infection as soon as possible to avoid complications that can make it more difficult to treat.

Why doesn’t the immune system kill the fungal infection?

Although your immune system will often kill the fungus, it is not always perfect. Because there is less blood circulation, the toenails are often a common place for infection. It is therefore more difficult to detect infection.

What are the potential complications of nail fungus

Nail infections can progress slowly and will be more difficult to treat. Patients with HIV/AIDS/treatments that weaken the immune system or who are on immunosuppressant medication have very rare serious complications. If the infection worsens, it can make it difficult to walk or use shoes.

What are the effectiveness of nail fungus treatments

Although most of the prescribed treatments work, it can take time to treat nail infections. A new, healthy nail that is free of fungus, will replace the damaged one. Nail fungus won’t go away until it heals. It can take up to 18 months for the toenails, even if medication is effective, to clear. Nail fungus infections have a high recurrence rate. Recurrent nail fungus infections could indicate that you are at risk for developing nail infections.

Is it a good idea to keep your fingernails trimmed?

Yes. It can make it easier for fungus and bacteria to hide under nails. However, it is equally important to dry the nails. Toenails are especially vulnerable to moisture.

What can I do to prevent fungal nail infections coming back?

Your doctor will recommend that you follow the prescribed treatment. Once the infection has been cured, your nail must be clear. To keep your feet dry and clean, change your socks often. Shoes that were worn when the nail infection occurred should be thrown out or sterilized. You should also treat Athlete’s foot to prevent it from spreading to your nails. To minimize the chance of getting fungi in your skin, avoid wearing sandals or flip-flops to public pools and gym showers.

To treat my toenail and nail fungus, who should I go to?

Your podiatrist, dermatologist, and family physician are the best medical professionals to give you the diagnosis, counseling, and treatment that you need. They are also current on the latest onychomycosis research. Your access depends on how severe your condition is.

You may be referred by healthcare services to a dermatologist who specializes on conditions of the skin, hair, and nails. Your podiatrist is trained to treat conditions that affect the feet.

There are many symptoms that can be seen in most cases of fungus infection. However, you will soon recognize the symptoms of onychomycosis. Unnatural thickness and a yellowish-brown color are the most obvious signs of an infected nail.

As the infection worsens, a malodorous layer of dirt builds up, and eventually the nail will become brittle and dry. To find the best toenail fungus treatment, it is crucial to seek a specialist’s opinion and diagnosis as soon as you notice any of these symptoms.

Your occupation, footwear, and foot habits will all be considered by the doctor. To ensure that you have toenail fungus and not psoriasis (which could cause the same symptoms),

A lab test will examine your nails for fungi. To determine if you have this severe fungus, I recommend you visit your doctor. The fungus doesn’t heal on its own, but it can stay for quite some time before the nail begins to fall off. In most cases, the fungus can also infect the nail that is just growing.

Attention! This type of fungus is anaerobic. This means they thrive in environments with less oxygen. It is part of the dermatophytes fungi family. This group also causes jock itch, ringworm, and psoriasis.

These fungi thrive when there is moisture and can get under our nails if we don’t take care of them. The fungus appears as a white or grayish spore.

It forms a yellowish-colored spot underneath the nail. The keratin compound is then broken down and the discoloration spreads. You will soon feel pain and your nails will become brittle. Sometimes the infection can spread to other areas and cause bleeding.

You aren’t diabetic if you aren’t. Diabetes sufferers have difficulty treating nail fungi due to their weak immune systems. Mild infections can cause more damage.

Patients with leukemia will also experience this. There is no cure that will make your nails fungus-free forever. They will recur most of the time, especially if hygiene rules are not followed.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Toenail Fungus

Unless the nail becomes too thick, fungal nail infection can cause pain. Fungal nail infections are usually treated cosmetically and not for any physical pain.

• Fungal nail infections can cause thickening of the nails, which may make it difficult to stand, walk, or exercise. This is not something you want!
• As the disease progresses, paresthesia (a sensation that causes tingling, prickling, or creeping on your skin) can occur. It is usually caused by an injury or irritation to a nerve.
• These are not as serious as the potential loss of self-esteem and embarrassment.

Fungal nail infections can be divided into different subtypes based on the location and form of the infection.

How To Recognize Nail Fungus Infection

Distal lateral subungual onychomycosis is characterized by a thickened nail plate with a cloudy appearance (opaque), thickening and hardening of the nail bed beneath (nailbed hyperkeratosis), and the nail separating from the bed below (onycholysis). Discolored nails can appear in a range of white to brown. The nail’s edge can become brittle or eroded.

The Endonyx Onychomycosis (EO) nail plate is milky white. However, unlike DLSO, it does not separate from the bed. Subungual (or the area below the nail) doesn’t thicken or harden (no hyperkeratosis). Normal nail thickness and nail surface are normal in this case. Pathology shows a contrast between the large number of fungal filaments (filaments that make up the fungus) in the nail plate and the absence of such in the nail bed.

White superficial onychomycosis symptoms are typically limited to the toes.On the outside of the nail plate, small white spots or powdery-looking areas appear. The nail becomes flaky and rough.

Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis is characterized by white streaking, streaking or discoloration near the nail fold. It can also occur in the deeper layers of the nails. The nail plate turns white near the cuticle but remains normal at the ends.

Total Dystrophic Onychomycosis is a condition where the nails become thickened and opaque. The entire nail plate as well as the matrix are affected.

Candida albicans (yeast infection) can affect the nails and cause additional symptoms. Candidal infection can occur in the fingernails and toenails, but it may also affect the surrounding tissue. Erythematous means when the nail crease becomes inflamed. Onycholysis is when the plate separates or gets tangled with its bed.

Chronic mucocutaneous disease, a condition that affects the skin and mucous membranes, causes the nail bed to thicken and harden (nailbed hyperkeratosis). The nails can become infected, and the fingers or toes may appear rounded at the ends.

7 Conditions That Are Not Nail Fungus Infection

If you are unsure of which type of affection it is, I am happy to help. You should also know that nail fungus can be confused with other conditions. You don’t want to be treated for another infection.

1. Lines and ridges: these are normal and considered normal. They can become more severe during pregnancy. If you bite your nails often, it can cause a large groove in the middle of the nail.
2. Senile nails: As we age, our nails become stiffer and more brittle. Avoid this by keeping your nails clean and not soaking them in water.
3. A hematoma is a bloody area under the nail that can cause red or black nails. This usually occurs when you accidentally hit your nail on the wrong side. You can trim the discolored area as you trim your nails. However, if there is a dark spot under your nails that has not been traumatized, it may be a sign of melanoma.
4. Pseudomonas bacteria can cause green nails. This occurs when the nail is partially separated from its nail bed. It is best to trim the nails every four weeks. If you don’t want to clean the nail, you can polish the nail and wait for two to three months. Avoid soaking your nails in water. Always dry them after bathing.
5. Pitted nails can be a sign of psoriasis or other skin conditions that affect the nail matrix. This is the area just below the nail. This is where the nail grows. Psoriasis can cause nails to turn tan.
6. Paronychia is a condition that causes swelling and reddening of the skin around nails. This refers to an infection of the cuticle (the bottom of the nail). It is often caused by bacteria if the infection is severe (emerges quickly). Although it may be treated with warm baths, a doctor is required to drain the infection. Chronic paronychia is when the cuticle becomes inflamed and irritated over time. You should be careful as yeast can sometimes infect areas around the affected skin. The first step in treating the skin is to keep it dry and away from water. Hydrocortisone, a steroid cream, can sometimes be used to treat the problem. If the problem persists, a physician should be consulted.
7. Chronic nail trauma can lead to damage that looks like fungal nails. This can be caused by repetitive activities such as starting and stopping, kicks, and other athletic endeavors. This kind of trauma can also happen with certain jobs or tight-fitting footwear.

Sources:

• Paronychia (Nail Infection): What Is It, Symptoms, Causes And Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15327-nail-infection-paronychia.
• Pseudomonas Fingernail Infection Successfully Treated With… : AIDS. (n.d.). LWW. https://journals.lww.com/aidsonline/fulltext/2010/04240/pseudomonas_fingernail_infection_successfully.29.aspx.
• Chronic Mucocutaneous Candidiasis: Background, Pathophysiology, Etiology. (2021, June 9). Chronic Mucocutaneous Candidiasis: Background, Pathophysiology, Etiology. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1091928-overview.
• Candida Albicans – Wikipedia. (2021, December 8). Candida albicans – Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candida_albicans.
• Onychomycosis (Nail Infection) « Ada. (n.d.). Ada. https://ada.com/conditions/onychomycosis-fungal-nail-infection/.
• Onychomycosis (Nail Infection) « Ada. (n.d.). Ada. https://ada.com/conditions/onychomycosis-fungal-nail-infection/.
• Piraccini, B. M., & Tosti, A. (2004, June 1). White Superficial Onychomycosis. White Superficial Onychomycosis: Epidemiological, Clinical, and Pathological Study of 79 Patients | Dermatology | JAMA Dermatology | JAMA Network. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/480625.
• “Endonyx” Onychomycosis: a New Modality Of Nail Invasion By Dermatophytes – PubMed. (1999, January 1). PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10086860/.
• Distal Subungual Onychomycosis – an Overview | ScienceDirect Topics. (n.d.). Distal Subungual Onychomycosis – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/distal-subungual-onychomycosis.

Attention! This information is critical to the success of the toenail fungus treatment. Fungus and its spores can be found all around us, and even inside our bodies. There are colonies of Candida albicans as well as other types of fungus that help us to digest food and perform our daily functions. Nature’s greatest decomposers are fungus and mold. Some of them are found in the intestines as well as other parts of the body. The immune system does a great job controlling fungal growth. It does have its ups and downs.

Your lifestyle choices can either help or hinder your body’s ability to function properly. The same principle applies to fungus both on the skin and inside the body. The infection can develop faster if you live in stressful situations or are affected by other factors.

Important: Keep an eye on your case

You must be vigilant about your case. Your environment can affect the body’s chemistry. Your defense mechanisms will trigger a “fight-or-flight” response if you feel threatened or scared. Your body will make substances in a matter of seconds that will help you overcome the threat. Your bloodstream will be flooded with more hormones, proteins, and other substances.

Although this is an extreme example, it does illustrate the point. Your body’s chemistry can change based on what you eat or think. Medical doctors are limited by their education. MDs don’t take nutrition classes, if any. It seemed that memorizing drug concentrations and dosages was more important. The MD and Big Pharma giants would be less happy if people could eat well.

You can also make it so that everyone is able to prescribe side effects that are treated by other products. This is not the main concern. You should remember that nutrition is crucial for these infections. It is possible to greatly speed up the healing process by changing your lifestyle and eating better. We’ll be discussing some of the most common types of nail fungus later.

As you will see, the severity of an infection can vary greatly from one person to another. A combination of some of these factors can cause an infection. There are many ways that fungus can grow, and many types. The infinite complexity and personalization that fungus can grow is just one example of the endless possibilities.

You’ll be able to see the relationship between your body and the different nail fungi, and it will become difficult to fix.

It’s no wonder that western medicine, which relies on the standardization of one product for mass consumption to treat illness, is not effective. Your battle is yours and only yours.

While there are many people out there who would be happy to help you, in the end you decide. You’ll live with what you produce.

These guidelines should be followed.

Acidity

The pH of a substance or the power of Hydrogen ions in an acidic solution determines its acidity and alkalinity. This measurement is on a continuum, from acidic to alkaline. It uses a scale of 1 to 14. The neutral point, which is located at 7°C, is the middle. The scale may not be applicable to alkaline or extremely acidic substances. Water has a pH around 7. The pH of water is usually 7.

It is what your body does when you give it food that matters the most. You get an alkaline result if you consume lemon juice. To release their electro-magnetic energies, alkaline minerals need to be able to react with acid. This is the only way the body can use it. Different types of yeasts and fungus can grow at pH levels between 2-8. It all depends on what type of fungus you are talking about. Candida albicans, for example, is a common type of fungus and can be found in the body.

It thrives in an environment that is less acidic. Once it begins growing, it works towards making the environment as alkaline and healthy as possible.

Many fungus species don’t like acidic environments. This is true for all life forms that live in neutral or slightly alkaline environments.

All treatments discussed in this article aim to raise the acidity in infected areas. This will depend on what type of fungus is being developed and how your body responds to it. I am able to identify the best treatment for certain types of fungus.

However, I do use tests and sometimes have to collaborate with labs to analyze tissue samples. It is important to monitor and understand your infection. It is important to know the pH of your environment. There are many synergetic environments in your body that work together to create harmony and perfect balance. When this balance is disturbed, disease can occur. To grow nail fungus, you need to have the right environment and be exposed to the spores in the appropriate amount. Your body will lose the battle if it is not properly balanced. The infection will then start to grow. This is directly affected by your lifestyle choices. Your immune system will begin to decline if you eat the wrong foods and live in unhealthy environments.

Wearing out. You become less resilient to all types of threats if you don’t get the right nutrition. It is possible to get a form of fungi even while being treated with antibiotics. They kill many targets, just like their name. They also kill many good cells, which can weaken your immune system. They act as a trigger. They can cause some harm to your body which triggers an even more powerful response that will likely eliminate the problem completely. It is risky. Many people don’t know how antibiotics work. Although they can be effective for some people, many others are more likely to become ill from them. Your body develops a tolerance to these drugs. There are many antibiotics that can kill. Some antibiotics cover a greater range of symptoms, while others have a more specific focus. You will probably develop tolerance to one that has a wider range of applications. Your body will be tolerant to it.

It will make you less responsive to it. It may be necessary to take higher doses. This can lead to severe side effects. It is possible that you will never fully recover. Tolerance doesn’t just cover the antibiotic you are currently using. It covers many other drugs as well. Simply put, you are attacking yourself by taking antibiotics. Your body will become less responsive to medical treatment. All subsequent treatments will be less effective because of this. If you truly want to understand your problem, this is a crucial step.

All over the globe, people are cursed by having to deal with toenail fungus.

Toenail fungus can be embarrassing, so finding the best toenail fungus treatment is important. This painful and ugly-looking fungus can affect 3% to 5%, or 12 million Americans.

Toenail fungus can develop over time if your nails are not properly cared for. It has been shown that toenail fungus affects between 3% and 12% of the world’s population.

According to some studies, this number could mean that as many as 150 million people have been affected by serious fungal infections worldwide. This condition usually affects adults, and the likelihood of contracting it increases with age. Did you know that 25% of adults will develop nail fungus before the age of 40?

The statistics get worse as you age. Senior citizens are at a 50% risk of developing toe nail fungus. Toe nail fungus can be more common than hand nail fungal disease. This is because fungi thrive in warm, dark places, and your feet provide a fertile environment for them.

A dermatology study conducted in the U.S. found that nearly half of all patients who visited a clinic for treatment were suffering from fungus-related problems. It’s not surprising, is it? But, don’t get discouraged. Although many drugs and ointments have failed in the past, I can assure you that your case will succeed.

Statistics show that seniors, people with diabetes, poor blood circulation, and other health conditions are more susceptible to nail fungus than others. They also tend to walk barefoot in infected locker rooms and sweat heavily around their feet.

Researchers found that fungal infections can be more common in certain individuals than in others. However, this is not true for everyone. You should avoid walking barefoot in damp places and wearing heavy work boots.

The chances of contracting the disease over time increase dramatically.

These infections can also be spread to those who work in places where their hands are frequently wet, such as a dishwasher at a restaurant or a housecleaner.

You should be aware of the prevention methods you have to prevent toe nail fungus if you fall into one of the high-risk groups. People over the age of 50 are more likely to become infected than those under the age of 40.

If you live in an environment that encourages you to wear sweaty shoes or puts you in close contact with people who are infected, you could be at risk of contracting the disease.

However, once you have an infection, it is important to know that you aren’t the only one. This is a common problem in America and all over the world. However, it can be treated.

Doctors can often see the frustration of patients when they return for treatment. Therefore, patients must not only treat the infection but also stop the cycle of re-infection.

Itchy, scaling skin between your toes is the first sign of toenail fungal disease. This type of infection can be prevented by:

• Avoid nail injuries, as this can increase your risk of getting a nail infection.
• Flip-flops are not recommended for public areas (e.g., community bathing/shower rooms, locker rooms).
• Do not share towels.
• You might consider replacing your old shoes, as they could have fungal spores.

Toenail Fungus in Medical Terms

Onychomycosis, a common nail disorder, is also known as toenail fungal disease or mycotic nail. This condition is caused by a variety of fungi and can cause severe nail damage. The fungus will spread and eventually cause a thickening of the toenails, which can lead to yellowing and crumbling.

Toenail fungus is more common in damp and dark environments. This means that people who wear tight shoes and those who apply multiple coats of nail polish (which trap moisture and encourage growth) are more likely to get it.

The reason is that the fungus thrives on the toenail protein called keratin once it has formed.

Onychomycosis is the most common nail condition. It causes approximately half of all conditions. Onychomycosis may affect the fingernails as well as the toenails, but the most common targets are the toenails.

These organisms thrive in closed shoes and plastic shoes, which makes them easier to infect the toenails and feet. These infections are common in people who have had their hands exposed to water for a long time.

Double gloves are a solution. They should be made of cotton on the inside and vinyl or latex on the outside. If they come into contact with water, it will cause them to become infected.

Facts about onychomycosis

1. Up to 30% of all skin conditions can be attributed to onychomycosis.
2. Nail fungal infections may affect up to 5% of the population, 20% of people over 60, and 50% of those over 70.
3. In 14% of cases, conventional treatment for fungal infections is effective.
4. This is the most common Dermatophyte toenail fungal infection.
5. Dermatophytes are one of the most prevalent sources of fungal infections in humans. Each year, they affect millions of people and cost $800 million to treat.
6. Toenail fungus is more common in men than it is in women.
7. The risk of infection increases when you work in moist areas.
8. Poor circulation, age, diabetes, nail thickening, and excessive sweating are all risk factors.
9. Onychomycosis is a condition that affects one third of diabetics.
10. Nail infection is more common in smokers and those with psoriasis.
11. Scientists don’t yet know if there is a genetic susceptibility to nail fungus in some people.

It is frustrating to see that millions of Americans with this condition think it is not serious and doesn’t require immediate treatment. Although it may not be a serious problem yet, the fact that the fungus can spread from one person to another and is contagious should be alarming enough. There are many remedies, but none is guaranteed.

The most effective drug, Lamisil, is linked to many liver problems. It is not surprising that so many people will choose to ignore the issue and cover their tracks. It is unlikely that young, healthy adults will notice any problems immediately if they ignore them. As the fungus grows, however, you will notice more problems over time.

It can cause the nail to become thicker and appear like a giant’s from the tip of it to the cuticle. Your entire life will be affected by pain and inflammation. Many people can’t admit to their illness, and it is shameful. It is not a state you should be following, but it is one I recommend.

You already know that you have made a huge decision to make a change in your life. Now you are reading about how to get rid of this terrible disease. It can be quite overwhelming to realize that this organism could spread if you don’t treat it.

It won’t spread beyond their feet for most people. However, it can spread to the fingers and other areas (hands, back, and legs) in some people. The longer you wait, the more difficult it is to treat!

Sources:

• Side Effects Of Lamisil (Terbinafine), Warnings, Uses. (n.d.). RxList. https://www.rxlist.com/lamisil-side-effects-drug-center.htm.
• Fungi On the Skin: Dermatophytes And Malassezia. (2014, August 1). PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4109575/.
• Onychomycosis – an Overview | ScienceDirect Topics. (n.d.). Onychomycosis – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/onychomycosis.
• Westerberg|Michael J. Voyack, D. P., Westerberg, D. P., & Voyack, M. J. (n.d.). Onychomycosis: Current Trends In Diagnosis And Treatment – American Family Physician. Onychomycosis: Current Trends in Diagnosis and Treatment – American Family Physician. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/1201/p762.html.
• Is Diabetes Causing My Yellow Nails?. (n.d.). Is Diabetes Causing My Yellow Nails?. https://www.healthline.com/health/is-diabetes-causing-my-yellow-nails#diabetes-and-nails.
• @. (n.d.). Toenail Fungus (Onychomycosis): Causes & Symptoms. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11303-toenail-fungus.
• You Are Being Redirected…. (n.d.). You are being redirected…. https://www.themedicalcity.com/news/nail-fungus.
• Global And Multi-National Prevalence Of Fungal Diseases—Estimate Precision. (2017, December 1). PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5753159/.
• More Than Half Of All Americans Are Symptomatic Of Highly Contagious Nail Fungus And Infection, But Unaware Of It, New Survey Reports. (n.d.). Infection Control Today. https://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/view/more-half-all-americans-are-symptomatic-highly-contagious-nail-fungus-and-infection.
• Nail Fungus: Overview – InformedHealth.org – NCBI Bookshelf. (2018, June 14). Nail fungus: Overview – InformedHealth.org – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279547/.