Last week, we discussed the symptoms and treatment of Athlete's Foot. This week, we consider a similar condition, infection of the nails. In medical jargon, this is known as onychomycosis.
Nail infections can occur in either the toe or finger nails. However, fungi prefer places that are dark and damp, so toenails are far more likely. As we age, our ability to fight infections diminishes, so nail fungus is more common in the elderly.
Symptoms of fungal infections include:
- Nails that are yellow, white, or brown
- Nails are losing their shape and/or cracking
- Nails lift up off the toe in some cases
Prevention is similar to Athlete's Foot. In short, keep your feet dry and avoid other wet areas where other people are walking bare foot.
Symptoms of fungal nails are similar to other skin conditions, including psoriasis, so your podiatrist might take a sample from the toe to confirm the diagnosis. Once you are certain it is a fungal infection, it can be treated with oral antifungals. Your podiatrist might also prescribe a topical cream, but this may or may not prove effective if the fungus is under the nail. In either case, plan to be using the drugs over several months.
Recently, a new treatment involving lasers has been approved. It is relatively pain free and kills all organisms in one visit. Furthermore, you will not have the side effects you might have by taking the drugs (usually in the liver or kidney). Unfortunately, this procedure is considered aesthetic by insurance companies, and you will have to bear the cost.
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