What causes a fungal nail infection?
August 31, 2009
A dermatophyte foot fungus causes a fungal infection. This infection causes onychomycosis which is commonly known as athlete’s foot or foot fungus. The infection turns the toenails or fingernails into a different colour, tears the nail and releases a bad smell. This is accompanied by irritation in the infected area. Wearing shoes and walking could result in serious pain.
The infection spreads from the skin of the toe and enters deep inside the nail bed. This results in an infection which causes irritation and pain.
The infection is common in adults with more than 90 per cent of cases seen in older people. On the other hand, the infection is rare in children with only 2.6 per cent of the cases seen in children below 18 years of age.
Treatment:
1) Oral pills are prescribed as a treatment against such an infection. Anti-nail Fungus-Rx with a wide spectrum of antifungal extracts can be effective in healing the infection.
2) Sprays, powders and gels are available for external application over the infected area. These work very well but are only effective for as long as you keep using them.
3) Home remedies could also be helpful at times and in comparison to creams and pills, they are less expensive.
The infection spreads in wet and moist areas such as bathrooms, swimming pools, changing rooms, etc. Anyone encountering such symptoms should consult a dermatologist immediately. It is essential to keep high standards of personal hygiene. One should wash their hands and feet with an anti-fungal soap applicant to avoid any infections.