Nail fungus: onychomycosis

Nail fungus: what it is, causes and symptoms

Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is an infection of the nail system by fungi.
If not treated in time, fungi can lead to total nail dystrophy (permanent abnormality of nail growth) and consequently the emergence of new complications.

Of course, the cause of onychomycosis is fungal infection: these are often fungi that live in contact with the affected person without creating problems, but in certain situations (such as a drop in immune defenses) can replicate uncontrollably leading to infection.
There are also certain risk factors that can facilitate the onset of onychomycosis, such as living in damp places where fungi proliferate.
The main symptom of onychomycosis is the discoloration of the nail, which in most cases tends to change its color from white to yellowish.

ungi can be located on the nails at the superficial, proximal sub-ungual or distal sub-ungual
level, as much as on the skin of the foot (dermatomycosis).
The most common is INTERDIGITAL TINEA PEDIS, or ATHLETE’S FOOT, between the third and fourth toes or between the fourth and fifth toes: it is characterized by skin maceration and fissures. Symptoms can start from simple redness to an itchy sensation.

Nail fungus: prevention and treatment

Podiatric treatment consists of a twofold action:

  • cutting of the nail plate contaminated by the fungus (which will be examined through a nail culture that will specify the type of mycosis) and removal of the material produced by the fungus during infection;
  • application of localized anti-fungal medications to combat the fungus depending on the type of infection.

In order to prevent nail fungus, it is important to maintain proper nail hygiene and keep them short, clean and dry.

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