One of the most commonly experienced conditions
of the feet is toenail fungus. It is also called onychomycosis and is an
infection that is known to grow very slowly. It is brought about by
dermatophytes. These are fungi that normally infect nails, hair and also
the skin. There is also a possibility that yeast and molds may cause
this infection. Luckily, a Chattanooga podiatrist can help in managing
the condition.
Most importantly, one ought to determine if they are suffering from the condition as early as possible. The infections take place under nails and tend to begin from where the nails are trimmed. Less often than not, the infections appear as whitish discolorations which are powdery. These are found at the top part of the nails. Common symptoms of the infection are thickening of nails, infected parts getting loose and areas beneath nails getting discolored.
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.
There may be a scheduled meeting with the podiatrist at the office. Such a session may involve debridement, removal of debris and trimming of affected areas. In so doing, thickness is reduced and discomfort relieved. Other available modes of therapy are oral medications and laser therapy.
After toenail fungus is managed by a Chattanooga podiatrist, it is less likely that it will recur. Still, there ought to be preventive measures to prevent re-infection. Early management is preferred as it makes the whole management procedure more effective.
Most importantly, one ought to determine if they are suffering from the condition as early as possible. The infections take place under nails and tend to begin from where the nails are trimmed. Less often than not, the infections appear as whitish discolorations which are powdery. These are found at the top part of the nails. Common symptoms of the infection are thickening of nails, infected parts getting loose and areas beneath nails getting discolored.
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.
There may be a scheduled meeting with the podiatrist at the office. Such a session may involve debridement, removal of debris and trimming of affected areas. In so doing, thickness is reduced and discomfort relieved. Other available modes of therapy are oral medications and laser therapy.
After toenail fungus is managed by a Chattanooga podiatrist, it is less likely that it will recur. Still, there ought to be preventive measures to prevent re-infection. Early management is preferred as it makes the whole management procedure more effective.
By Judie Vivien Pullido
About the Author:
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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