One of the most commonly experienced conditions of the feet is toenail fungus. It is also called onychomycosis and is an infection that is known to grow very slowly. It is brought about by dermatophytes. These are fungi that normally infect nails, hair and also the skin. There is also a possibility that yeast and molds may cause this infection. Luckily, a Chattanooga podiatrist can help in managing the condition.
Most importantly, there is need for people to confirm that indeed they are suffering from the condition. The infections occur under the nails and normally start from areas where nails get trimmed. Some of the time, these infections are seen as discolorations that are white and powdery at the top of nails. This is not surety of toenail fungus infection. Common symptoms of these infections are nails thickening, infected sections getting loose and areas beneath the nails getting discolored.
Perhaps the single most important step is to determine that the condition is indeed toenail fungi infection. The appearance and symptoms may be used in this. There could also be the use of laboratory tests to ascertain the infection.
Oral anti-fungal medicines are mostly used because they are very effective. However, they are not the preferred option for most people because they come with side effects and are expensive. There are many topical over-the-counter medications that may also be used. The level to which these are effective is limited by the fact that the fungi are found very deep in the nails.
One may have an appointment with the podiatrist at his office for even more effective management. This includes debridement, debris removal or trimming down, which are all meant to decrease thickness of affected areas and reduce discomfort. Other options of management are oral therapy and use of lasers.
After toenail fungus is managed by a Chattanooga podiatrist, it is less likely that it will recur. Still, there ought to be preventive measures to prevent re-infection. Early management is preferred as it makes the whole management procedure more effective.
Most importantly, there is need for people to confirm that indeed they are suffering from the condition. The infections occur under the nails and normally start from areas where nails get trimmed. Some of the time, these infections are seen as discolorations that are white and powdery at the top of nails. This is not surety of toenail fungus infection. Common symptoms of these infections are nails thickening, infected sections getting loose and areas beneath the nails getting discolored.
Perhaps the single most important step is to determine that the condition is indeed toenail fungi infection. The appearance and symptoms may be used in this. There could also be the use of laboratory tests to ascertain the infection.
Oral anti-fungal medicines are mostly used because they are very effective. However, they are not the preferred option for most people because they come with side effects and are expensive. There are many topical over-the-counter medications that may also be used. The level to which these are effective is limited by the fact that the fungi are found very deep in the nails.
One may have an appointment with the podiatrist at his office for even more effective management. This includes debridement, debris removal or trimming down, which are all meant to decrease thickness of affected areas and reduce discomfort. Other options of management are oral therapy and use of lasers.
After toenail fungus is managed by a Chattanooga podiatrist, it is less likely that it will recur. Still, there ought to be preventive measures to prevent re-infection. Early management is preferred as it makes the whole management procedure more effective.
About the Author:
Find a summary of the advantages you get when you consult a podiatric physician and more information about an experienced Chattanooga podiatrist at http://www.rebyfootcare.com now.
No comments:
Post a Comment