Treatment and Prevention Information of Nail Fungus

Sep 8
13:39

2010

Juliet Cohen

Juliet Cohen

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Nail fungus is caused by tiny organisms that infect the fingernails and toenails. This condition is caused by any one of many types of fungi (similar to the organisms that cause mold in your bathroom) that grow in the moist warm environment in your shoes. These fungi generally belong to a group of fungi called dermatophytes.

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Nail Fungus also known as Onychomycosis. Fungal nail infection is an infection of the nails by a fungus. Nail fungus is very common worldwide. It is rare in children but the frequency increases as you age,Treatment and Prevention Information of Nail Fungus  Articles with an evaluated 48% of people in the United States having at least one toe affected by the time they are 70 years of age.

As they grow they invade and feed on the protein that makes up the hard surface of the toenails. The fungus thrives in places that are warm, moist and dark. This is the reason why many who wear shoes constantly in warmer climates have toenail fungus infections. Wearing tight-fitting shoes and layers of polish in the nails increases the risk of developing this. It can also be spread person to person in public areas such as locker rooms and showers. People who frequent public swimming pools, gyms, or shower rooms and people who perspire a great deal commonly have mold-like infections.

Having a chronic condition such as diabetes that influences your circulation or HIV also increases your risk. The big toe and the little toe are the nails that are most likely to be affected. The most of the fungal skin infections can be treated with a topical medication. Prescription nail fungus treatments involve Sporanox, Lamisil, Griseofulvin and Penlac. Many nail disorders result from poor nail care, so developing good nail habits can help. Keep nails clean and dry. This helps prevent bacteria and other infectious organisms from collecting under the nail. While getting nail fungus is very common, a little prevention can go a long way.

There are a few tips will greatly decrease the chances of getting finger nail or toenail fungus. Wearing comfortable well fitting shoes and clean hosiery every day, alllowing your shoes to dry thouroughly between wearings. Cut nails straight across, rounding them slightly at the tips for maximum strength. Regularly disinfect nail clippers and any other pedicure tools. Avoid applying layers of nail polish. Good general health and hygiene help to prevent fungal infections. Wash and dry the hands thoroughly after contact with any fungal infection. If you have athlete's foot or jock it, treat it immediately. Otherwise it may spread to other areas of the body.

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