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.
The use of oral anti-fungal medications has been the norm for a long time. These drugs are effective but are not the preference of many people. This is because of their potential to bring about with side effects. There are a host of over-the-counter medications that are helpful in management of toenail fungi. The fact that fungi infestation occurs deep in nails makes these drugs less effective.
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.
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.
The use of oral anti-fungal medications has been the norm for a long time. These drugs are effective but are not the preference of many people. This is because of their potential to bring about with side effects. There are a host of over-the-counter medications that are helpful in management of toenail fungi. The fact that fungi infestation occurs deep in nails makes these drugs less effective.
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.
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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