Among the very common feet infections are toenail fungi. The infection is also known as onychomycosis and acts very slowly on the affected areas. It is caused by fungi known as dermatophytes which affect the skin, nails and hair. Toenail fungus may also be caused by yeasts and molds. Fortunately, a Chattanooga podiatrist can effectively treat the infection.
Most importantly, one ought to determine if they are suffering from the condition as early as possible. The infections take place under nails and tend to begin from where the nails are trimmed. Less often than not, the infections appear as whitish discolorations which are powdery. These are found at the top part of the nails. Common symptoms of the infection are thickening of nails, infected parts getting loose and areas beneath nails getting discolored.
On visiting a podiatrist, the existence of the infection is determined both by its appearance and its general appearance. If there is still no surety whether it is toenail fungus, laboratory tests are conducted from samples taken from affected areas. This gives definite conclusion. Given that the fungus affects not only nails but skin underneath, management can be a challenge.
The use of oral anti-fungal medications has been the norm for a long time. These drugs are effective but are not the preference of many people. This is because of their potential to bring about with side effects. There are a host of over-the-counter medications that are helpful in management of toenail fungi. The fact that fungi infestation occurs deep in nails makes these drugs less effective.
There may be a scheduled meeting with the podiatrist at the office. Such a session may involve debridement, removal of debris and trimming of affected areas. In so doing, thickness is reduced and discomfort relieved. Other available modes of therapy are oral medications and laser therapy.
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, one ought to determine if they are suffering from the condition as early as possible. The infections take place under nails and tend to begin from where the nails are trimmed. Less often than not, the infections appear as whitish discolorations which are powdery. These are found at the top part of the nails. Common symptoms of the infection are thickening of nails, infected parts getting loose and areas beneath nails getting discolored.
On visiting a podiatrist, the existence of the infection is determined both by its appearance and its general appearance. If there is still no surety whether it is toenail fungus, laboratory tests are conducted from samples taken from affected areas. This gives definite conclusion. Given that the fungus affects not only nails but skin underneath, management can be a challenge.
The use of oral anti-fungal medications has been the norm for a long time. These drugs are effective but are not the preference of many people. This is because of their potential to bring about with side effects. There are a host of over-the-counter medications that are helpful in management of toenail fungi. The fact that fungi infestation occurs deep in nails makes these drugs less effective.
There may be a scheduled meeting with the podiatrist at the office. Such a session may involve debridement, removal of debris and trimming of affected areas. In so doing, thickness is reduced and discomfort relieved. Other available modes of therapy are oral medications and laser therapy.
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