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Fungal Nail Infection - Fungal Nail Infection symptom, treatment, causes

Fungal infection of the fingernails is a risk for people whose hands are often in water. Fungal infections of the feet (ATHLETE'SFOOT) can spread to toenails. Affected nails become thickened, opaque, flaky, sometimes brown, and often lifted from the nail bed by debris that has collected underneath. Associated PARONYCHLA (infection around the nail) is common. Diagnosis is confirmed by microscopic examination and culture of nail clippings.

Fungal nail infections (also called onychomycosis) may be treated by applying an antifungal nail lacquer weekly for some months, or by taking antifungal drugs by mouth for many weeks, either continously or I week on, 3 weeks off ('pulse therapy'; until the affected nail has grown out. During treatment and afterwards, to prevent recurrence, nails should be kept as dry as possible by wearing cotton-lined rubber gloves when hands are in water, and open footwear or absorbent socks

Fungal nail infection is an infection of the nails by a fungus. Toenails are more commonly affected than fingernails, and symptoms include cracked, yellow, discolored, streaked, thickened, or spotted nails. It is caused by microscopic organisms called Dermatophytes. Like bacteria , fungi are always present in our environments. They usually only become a problem and cause infections when we are vulnerable (for example, if our immune system is lowered) and they get into our bodies. Dermatophyte infections are spread by walking barefoot in public places (especially warm, damp areas such as swimming pools) and sharing personal items, such as towels and nail clippers. An athlete's foot infection also can spread to the nails, causing a fungal nail infection. An infection with nail fungus may be difficult to treat, and infections may recur. But medications are available to help clear up nail fungus permanently.

Fungal nail infections are painful and unsightly. These infections are more common in adults older than 60 years of age. Around 3 in every 100 people in the UK will have a fungal nail infection at some point. Symptoms of a fungal infection may include brittleness, discoloration, thickening and crumbling of the nail, as well as debris under the nail itself. There are four major types of fungal infections. One type of fungus, dermatophytes, causes about 90% of all fungal nail infections. The most common fungal nail infection is distal subungual onychomycosis. Fungal nail infections are common. Worldwide, 2% to 18% of the population have a fungal nail infection at any given time. Fungal nail infections do not go away without treatment. They are treated with antifungal medications, which are available in topical form (applied directly to the skin) or as pills. The pills are used for more severe infections. In rare cases, the nail can be removed. The condition tends to return, even after successful treatment.

Causes of Fungal Nail Infection

The common Causes of Fungal Nail Infection :

• Sweaty shoes and moist socks can be a contributing factor.
• Individuals with a lower immunity due to Diabetes, H.I.V and patients with poor circulation.
• Most people may have the fungus present on their feet. However, a nail fungus infection may be caused due to the fungus invading the skin. This can be due to injury to the nail, inflammation from a ingrowing toe nail or inappropriate nail cutting.
• There are many types of fungus present in our environment. Most are harmless, however, a group of fungi called dermatophytes can affect the feet. Dermatophytes thrive on warm, moist conditions.

Symptoms of Fungal Nail Infection

Some Symptoms of Fungal Nail Infection :

• Brittleness .
• Thickening or formation of ridges on the nail.
• Loss of luster and shine.
• The nail becomes discolored.
• Distortion of nail shape.
• Crumbling of the nail.
• Changes occur to one or more nails.

Treatment of Fungal Nail Infection

• Creams and ointments are generally not helpful in treating this condition.
• Prescription anti-fungal medicines taken by mouth may help clear the fungus in about 50% of patients. However, such medicines can cause side effects or may interfere with other health medicines the patient is taking.
• Nails grow slowly, so even if treatment is successful, a new, clearer nail may take up to a year to replace the old nail.
• Oral medications .