Fungal infection is a particularly common condition in the toenails (as compared to finger nails) due to the less than ideal environment the toes are exposed to. Wearing tight-fitting, moist shoes predisposes one to fungal infection. When infected, toenails are harder to treat than fingernails because they have a slower growth and are subjected to more pressure. If struggling with this condition, there are some facts regarding fungal and ingrown nail treatment Grand Prairie residents may find useful.
The underlying factor in nail infection is damage to the overlying skin exposing deeper structures to the outside non-sterile environment. This is illustrated in the fact that most victims have a history of wearing shoes that do not properly fit them. In the long run, the feet develop infection secondary to peeling off of the skin due to too much friction. People living with uncontrolled diabetes are particularly more susceptible.
Wearing an inappropriate shoe size is also a major culprit in the occurrence of ingrown nails. The method used in the trimming of nails is very important in promoting healthy growth. It is recommended that one trims off only the overgrown bits without going into the skin. In addition, trimming them straight is good way of making them grow well.
One of the common ways in which onychomycosis presents is the nails getting discoloured. Their normal consistency may also be altered (they become softer and more brittle). Other common pointers to infection include tenderness, swelling and oozing of pus. With this typical presentation, it is easy to make a diagnosis without having to do further tests. Lab investigations are only necessary to know the particular microorganism behind the condition.
Management of onychocryptosis includes proper trimming of nails and allowing them to grow out before they are trimmed. One can also soak the feet or hands in warm water combined with some vinegar for about fifteen minutes every day. Alternatively, although controversial, cotton soaked in alcohol can be placed at the corner of an ingrown nail. Drugs against inflammation are beneficial in case the area is severely inflamed. Antibiotics are also crucial for infected ingrown nails (paronychia) because of the high likelihood of co-infection with bacteria.
Another home remedy that has been shown to have satisfactory results is soaking the toes or fingers in a solution of warm water and vinegar for about fifteen minutes every single day until you achieve desired results. Alternatively, one can soak cotton wool in alcohol and position it at the corner of the ingrown nail. Medication against inflammation can also be used as part of supportive therapy.
One of the complications of ingrown nails is infection of surrounding tissues. If untreated, it can result in nail dystrophy (wasting away) and skin and bone infection (cellulitis and osteomyelitis respectively). Antibiotics should be given if there is an accompanying bacterial infection. Otherwise, topical and oral antifungal agents are used. An example of a common antifungal with good response is terbinafine.
It is important to state that prevention is far better than cure. People who are at high risk of injury should be given priority. These include poorly controlled diabetic patients, morbidly obese patients and people who engage in sports. Simple measures such as keeping your feet free from moisture should not be overlooked. Education on proper nail care goes a long a way in preventing serious soft tissue infections.
The underlying factor in nail infection is damage to the overlying skin exposing deeper structures to the outside non-sterile environment. This is illustrated in the fact that most victims have a history of wearing shoes that do not properly fit them. In the long run, the feet develop infection secondary to peeling off of the skin due to too much friction. People living with uncontrolled diabetes are particularly more susceptible.
Wearing an inappropriate shoe size is also a major culprit in the occurrence of ingrown nails. The method used in the trimming of nails is very important in promoting healthy growth. It is recommended that one trims off only the overgrown bits without going into the skin. In addition, trimming them straight is good way of making them grow well.
One of the common ways in which onychomycosis presents is the nails getting discoloured. Their normal consistency may also be altered (they become softer and more brittle). Other common pointers to infection include tenderness, swelling and oozing of pus. With this typical presentation, it is easy to make a diagnosis without having to do further tests. Lab investigations are only necessary to know the particular microorganism behind the condition.
Management of onychocryptosis includes proper trimming of nails and allowing them to grow out before they are trimmed. One can also soak the feet or hands in warm water combined with some vinegar for about fifteen minutes every day. Alternatively, although controversial, cotton soaked in alcohol can be placed at the corner of an ingrown nail. Drugs against inflammation are beneficial in case the area is severely inflamed. Antibiotics are also crucial for infected ingrown nails (paronychia) because of the high likelihood of co-infection with bacteria.
Another home remedy that has been shown to have satisfactory results is soaking the toes or fingers in a solution of warm water and vinegar for about fifteen minutes every single day until you achieve desired results. Alternatively, one can soak cotton wool in alcohol and position it at the corner of the ingrown nail. Medication against inflammation can also be used as part of supportive therapy.
One of the complications of ingrown nails is infection of surrounding tissues. If untreated, it can result in nail dystrophy (wasting away) and skin and bone infection (cellulitis and osteomyelitis respectively). Antibiotics should be given if there is an accompanying bacterial infection. Otherwise, topical and oral antifungal agents are used. An example of a common antifungal with good response is terbinafine.
It is important to state that prevention is far better than cure. People who are at high risk of injury should be given priority. These include poorly controlled diabetic patients, morbidly obese patients and people who engage in sports. Simple measures such as keeping your feet free from moisture should not be overlooked. Education on proper nail care goes a long a way in preventing serious soft tissue infections.
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