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.
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.
The podiatrist may schedule an appointment at his office. This could involve debridement, removing debris or trimming down. This decreases nail thickness and relieves discomfort. Oral medications may be prescribed too. Management can also be done using laser therapy.
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.
The podiatrist may schedule an appointment at his office. This could involve debridement, removing debris or trimming down. This decreases nail thickness and relieves discomfort. Oral medications may be prescribed too. Management can also be done using laser therapy.
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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