Things You Should Consider About Nail Fungus Treatment
Nail infections can be displayed in different ways. They are fairly common, but some individuals may have a higher risk of getting them. Even though there are a variety of different options for nail fungus treatment, a good idea is to practice prevention methods as these can take a very long time to heal. You may want to contact your doctor to discuss your options, if you feel you may have an infection. It may require a prescription or more aggressive plan.
A discoloration of the nail (which is typically yellow or white) is a common sign of an infection. You may also notice that it becomes either thick or brittle, and may be distorted in shape. Because the culprit is a fungi, the toes are more susceptible to infection because they are often enclosed in shoes. This creates a warm, damp environment that is a perfect breeding ground for these microorganisms.
Poor blood circulation and the thickening of nails that occurs with age, can put elderly adults at a great risk for infection. Individuals that have diabetes or psoriasis may also have a higher risk. Individuals that walk barefoot in public places, such as spas, beaches and swimming pool; as well as, those who often wear poor ventilated socks and shoes, may also see an increased amount of infections occur.
Over the counter, and prescription topical creams and lotions may help with healing the infection. However, some people have found them to not be effective unless used with the addition of an oral anti fungal medication. Your doctor may also recommend filing the nail, so that the ointment can achieve a better penetration.
Anti fungal medications are typically what doctors suggest for oral treatment, as they seem to help fight the infection and promote healthy growth. These are usually taken for a long time, and the time in which a patient can expect results can vary from 4 to 1 year. Some of these treatments do have side effects, so be sure to discuss those possible risks with your doctor before beginning treatment.
There are times that a patient may have a more severe infection that can be very painful. In these cases, doctors can recommend that it be removed. Some doctors have also experimented with photodynamic therapy, or laser treatment, but there is not enough evidence to gauge its effectiveness.
Prevention is always a good idea. It is suggested that you wash your hands often, with antibacterial soap, and keep them dry. Alternating the types of shoes you wear, and avoiding socks and shoes that have little or no ventilation may also help. In addition, when visiting public places where people are often barefoot, you may want to consider a shower shoe.
AS with any medical condition, it is highly recommended that you contact your doctor, if you feel that you may have an infection. There are some side effects; as well as, certain things that need to be considered, such as other unrelated health issues, before choosing a nail fungus treatment. Please keep in mind that none of these infections may take a very long time to heal, and prevention is the key to avoiding recurrences.
A discoloration of the nail (which is typically yellow or white) is a common sign of an infection. You may also notice that it becomes either thick or brittle, and may be distorted in shape. Because the culprit is a fungi, the toes are more susceptible to infection because they are often enclosed in shoes. This creates a warm, damp environment that is a perfect breeding ground for these microorganisms.
Poor blood circulation and the thickening of nails that occurs with age, can put elderly adults at a great risk for infection. Individuals that have diabetes or psoriasis may also have a higher risk. Individuals that walk barefoot in public places, such as spas, beaches and swimming pool; as well as, those who often wear poor ventilated socks and shoes, may also see an increased amount of infections occur.
Over the counter, and prescription topical creams and lotions may help with healing the infection. However, some people have found them to not be effective unless used with the addition of an oral anti fungal medication. Your doctor may also recommend filing the nail, so that the ointment can achieve a better penetration.
Anti fungal medications are typically what doctors suggest for oral treatment, as they seem to help fight the infection and promote healthy growth. These are usually taken for a long time, and the time in which a patient can expect results can vary from 4 to 1 year. Some of these treatments do have side effects, so be sure to discuss those possible risks with your doctor before beginning treatment.
There are times that a patient may have a more severe infection that can be very painful. In these cases, doctors can recommend that it be removed. Some doctors have also experimented with photodynamic therapy, or laser treatment, but there is not enough evidence to gauge its effectiveness.
Prevention is always a good idea. It is suggested that you wash your hands often, with antibacterial soap, and keep them dry. Alternating the types of shoes you wear, and avoiding socks and shoes that have little or no ventilation may also help. In addition, when visiting public places where people are often barefoot, you may want to consider a shower shoe.
AS with any medical condition, it is highly recommended that you contact your doctor, if you feel that you may have an infection. There are some side effects; as well as, certain things that need to be considered, such as other unrelated health issues, before choosing a nail fungus treatment. Please keep in mind that none of these infections may take a very long time to heal, and prevention is the key to avoiding recurrences.
