Toenail fungus is among the most experienced conditions of feet. Its other name is onychomycosis and tends to grow slowly. It takes time before showing full symptoms. The condition is caused by dermatophytes, which are fungi. Parts of the body infected by dermatophytes are hair, nails and the skin. Toenail fungi are also able to be caused by yeast and molds. A Chattanooga podiatrist is able to treat the infection effectively.
The first thing is to determine if one is suffering from the condition. Infections by fungi occur under the nails and start at the end where nails get trimmed. At times, the infection may be seen as white discolorations that are powdery at the top part of nails. The most common observations with toenail fungi infection are thickening of nails, loosening of infected parts and discoloration beneath the nail.
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.
Oral anti-fungal medicines are mostly used because they are very effective. However, they are not the preferred option for most people because they come with side effects and are expensive. There are many topical over-the-counter medications that may also be used. The level to which these are effective is limited by the fact that the fungi are found very deep in the nails.
One may have an appointment with the podiatrist at his office for even more effective management. This includes debridement, debris removal or trimming down, which are all meant to decrease thickness of affected areas and reduce discomfort. Other options of management are oral therapy and use of lasers.
After being controlled by a Chattanooga podiatrist, it is not likely that the problem will recur at any given time. Nonetheless, preventive pleasures ought to be taken to prevent re-infection. Symptoms should be reported as soon as they are seen.
The first thing is to determine if one is suffering from the condition. Infections by fungi occur under the nails and start at the end where nails get trimmed. At times, the infection may be seen as white discolorations that are powdery at the top part of nails. The most common observations with toenail fungi infection are thickening of nails, loosening of infected parts and discoloration beneath the nail.
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.
Oral anti-fungal medicines are mostly used because they are very effective. However, they are not the preferred option for most people because they come with side effects and are expensive. There are many topical over-the-counter medications that may also be used. The level to which these are effective is limited by the fact that the fungi are found very deep in the nails.
One may have an appointment with the podiatrist at his office for even more effective management. This includes debridement, debris removal or trimming down, which are all meant to decrease thickness of affected areas and reduce discomfort. Other options of management are oral therapy and use of lasers.
After being controlled by a Chattanooga podiatrist, it is not likely that the problem will recur at any given time. Nonetheless, preventive pleasures ought to be taken to prevent re-infection. Symptoms should be reported as soon as they are seen.
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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.
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