Treatment and diagnosis of nail fungus

One ​​of the areas of our work is helping people suffering from nail fungus. This condition is caused by a fungal infection and can cause discomfort. However, thanks to the experience of our specialists and modern treatment methods, we offer effective solutions to restore health.
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Causes and risk factors for nail mycosis

Nails not only decorate us, but also reflect our overall health. Mycosis, also known as onychomycosis, is widespread. Not only does it cause physical discomfort, but it can also signal other health problems. It is important to pay attention to this problem in a timely manner in order to maintain health and prevent the development of the disease. Mycosis affects the plate and sometimes the skin around the nail. Affects people of all ages, but the elderly and those with immune problems are especially vulnerable.

It is important to know the reasons for effective prevention and treatment. The main culprits are various types of fungi. They are found everywhere, but certain conditions can promote their penetration into the plate.

Risk factors include visiting public places with high humidity, such as spas, swimming pools, and fitness clubs. Diseases that weaken the immune system (such as diabetes or cirrhosis of the liver) increase vulnerability to infections. Synthetic shoes and socks that do not allow air to pass through also create a favorable environment for the development of fungi.

Awareness of the causes and risk factors contributes to the prevention of the disease. Attention to personal hygiene reduces the chance of infection.

Causes and risk factors for nail mycosis

Types and stages of development of nail fungus

Main types

Onychomycosis appears in various forms, each of which has its own characteristics. The following types are distinguished:

  • Distal - the most common type, in which the fungus affects the edge, spreading deep under the plate
  • Superficial - characterized by the appearance of white spots and stripes on the surface
  • Proximal - a rare variant in which the fungal infection begins at the base of the nail and spreads to its edge
  • Total dystrophic - the most severe form, in which the plate is completely affected by the fungus and destroyed

Classification according to Arievich

According to the classification proposed by Arievich in 1970, onychomycosis is divided into the following types depending on external manifestations and the degree of damage:

  • Normotrophic - the plate retains its shape, but yellowish or whitish stripes appear
  • Hypertrophic - the nail turns yellow, thickens due to the formation of hyperkeratosis under it, becomes more brittle and may have uneven edges
  • Dystrophic - there is thinning that separates from the nail bed, forming voids

Each of these types and types of onychomycosis requires an individual approach to diagnosis and treatment. It is important to consult a specialist in time at the first signs of the disease in order to prevent its spread and complex damage to the plates.

Recognition

General characteristics include:

  • Color change, which may turn yellow, gray or white
  • Thickening of the plate, its curvature
  • Fragility and fragility
  • Unpleasant smell from under the nail
  • Softness and crumbliness in advanced stages

Fungus on the big toe is especially unpleasant.

In the early stages of the disease, symptoms may be subtle or absent altogether, complicating diagnosis. If you notice any of the above-mentioned signs, it is recommended that you do not put off visiting a dermatologist. Timely treatment increases the likelihood of a full recovery and helps prevent further spread of the infection.

General information about the procedure

Definition and diagnosis of nail fungus

Effective treatment of nail fungus begins with an accurate diagnosis. It is important not only to confirm the presence of the disease, but also to find out its type, which significantly influences the choice of treatment method.

The first stage of diagnosis is an examination by a dermatologist. The doctor examines the appearance of the nails, assessing changes in color and structure, and also pays attention to accompanying symptoms.

To clarify the diagnosis, laboratory tests may be used, such as scraping from the nail plate or the skin around it, and in some cases, a biopsy. This allows you to accurately determine the type of fungus and choose the most appropriate treatment.

In addition, differential diagnosis is carried out to exclude diseases with similar symptoms, for example, psoriasis or eczema.

The process of diagnosing fungal infections requires highly qualified and experienced specialists. When the first suspicious symptoms appear, you must immediately contact a dermatologist to obtain an accurate diagnosis and timely initiation of treatment.

Methods of combating nail fungus

Treatment of fungal nail infections requires an individual approach based on the stage of development of the disease, the type of pathogen, the patient’s health status and other important aspects.

  • Traditional methods involve the use of systemic antimycotics in the form of tablets and external agents (varnishes, creams, sprays), which are applied directly to the affected nails. The duration of such treatment can vary from several months to a year or more, depending on the degree of damage
  • Laser therapy is a modern and effective way to destroy fungus using radiation. This method is characterized by high efficiency, painlessness and the absence of a long recovery period
  • Surgical intervention is used in exceptional cases in severe cases of the disease, when other methods have proven ineffective. This includes removal of the affected nail plate
  • Physiotherapy includes the use of UV irradiation, magnetic therapy, electrophoresis and other procedures aimed at accelerating the healing process and increasing the overall effectiveness of treatment
  • Folk remedies such as tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar can be used as an adjuvant treatment, but their use should be agreed with a doctor, since self-medication may not bring the expected result and may even worsen the condition

If you notice the first signs of a fungal infection, you must immediately seek medical help in order to choose the optimal course of treatment and avoid possible complications.

How to prevent nail fungus

The basis of health is the prevention of fungal infections. Preventing the development of mycosis not only helps to preserve beauty and health, but also eliminates the need for long and inconvenient treatment.

  1. Hygiene is a key element of prevention. It is important to wash your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, and dry them well after water treatments. Use a personal towel that needs to be washed and changed regularly
  2. The choice of shoes plays an important role. Give preference to shoes made from natural materials that provide good ventilation to your feet. This will help prevent the creation of a humid environment favorable for fungal growth
  3. The use of individual slippers in public places with high humidity (swimming pools, saunas, showers) is mandatory to prevent contact with fungal spores
  4. Antimycotic treatment of shoes is an effective way to prevent the growth of fungus, especially relevant for sports shoes
  5. Attention to changes in the condition of the nails and timely contact with a specialist if suspicious symptoms are detected will help avoid the development of the disease

Fungus prevention are simple but important steps everyone can take to keep their feet healthy. Regular care, the right choice of shoes and careful attention to your body will help you avoid many problems and maintain health.

Taking care of your nails after curing the fungus

Returning to healthy nails after defeating mycosis requires careful and long-term care.

Enrich your diet with foods rich in vitamins and minerals to support your immune system and promote healthy nail growth.

Here are a few key points to help speed up the recovery process and minimize the risk of reinfection:

  • Regular check-ups with a dermatologist Keep your nails under control by regularly visiting a specialist to prevent relapses
  • Hygiene and care Keep your nails clean and dry, trim them carefully and use natural-based care products
  • Long-term prevention Do not stop following preventive measures, even after complete recovery. This will help against re-infection

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Marchenko
Elena Viktorovna
Head of the center for podology and mycology, dermatovenerologist, podologist, cosmetologist
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