A fungal disease of the toenails - onychocomycosis - is caused by dermatophyte fungi and microsporia.In a 2003 study of leg disorders, 16 European countries recognized them as the most common.
The fungus can affect the free edge of the nail, the sides, the back fold and the entire nail plate.Depending on the severity of the disease, a distinction is made between onychocomycosis:
- normotropic;
- hypertrophic;
- atrophic.
Changes in the color and structure of the nail can be minor or significant, up to complete destruction.
The pharmaceutical industry produces effective treatments for toenail fungus.These are tablets, varnishes, sprays, ointments and solutions.Recipes from conventional medicine that have gained extensive experience in the treatment of mycoses are used.
With all the variety of medications and home remedies, you can't start with self-medication.Once diagnosed, a consultant mycologist or dermatologist will recommend the best method to treat toenail fungus.In about 50% of cases there is a non-fungal deformation of the nail plate.
What you need to know before starting fungal treatment
The main route of transmission of an infection is contact.Fungal spores reproduce well in warm, moist environments.Therefore, you can become infected with onychomycosis:
- through the patient's personal belongings – shoes, towels, socks;
- in bathhouses, saunas, swimming pools, on the beach – wherever people go barefoot;
- in pedicure rooms where sanitary and hygienic requirements are not met.
The reason that the infection penetrates directly into human cells is a decrease in local and general immunity.These are:
- chronic diseases – diabetes, blood diseases, gastrointestinal tract;
- nail injuries, foot abrasions;
- previous viral illnesses;
- taking antibiotics, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants;
- HIV, immune deficiency.
A fungal infection that has penetrated the “open gate” begins an active life.Aggravate the course of the disease:
- Hyperhidrosis of the feet – increased sweating;
- constant wearing of tight shoes made of poor quality materials;
- Lack of personal hygiene.
Before starting treatment and choosing a remedy for nail fungus, you need to analyze the causes of the disease.Joint therapy and elimination of factors provoking the development of onychocomycosis can really help.This disease is known for frequent relapses.
Examinations before starting treatment for toenail fungus
At the appointment, a dermatologist examines the infected area, notes changes in the color and structure of the nails, as well as the type of lesion.He takes tissue samples for analysis by scraping with a special instrument.
The type of pathogen is determined by microscopy or inoculation into a nutrient medium.The sample is treated with a special compound and examined under a microscope.The analysis takes between 15 minutes and a day.Sowing involves allowing a piece of infected tissue to germinate under favorable conditions for 25 to 30 days.
The external manifestations of onychocomycosis are similar to the symptoms of other diseases: psoriasis, keratoderma, onychodystrophy and lichen planus.Laboratory diagnostics determine:
- presence of fungi;
- his type;
- quantitative characteristics of infection;
- Sensitivity to medications.
Urine and blood tests are prescribed to determine the stage of the disease, infection of internal organs and possible side effects of medications.After treatment, the tests are repeated.
PCR tests (polymerase chain reaction) show a high level of accuracy in determining the pathogen.This type of research determines the type of fungus in mild external manifestations of the disease, helps choose an effective drug and speeds up recovery.
Preparatory procedure for treatment
In order for the treatment to bring benefits and maximum effect, you need to prepare your nails for treatment with medication.For this purpose, the affected areas of the nail plates are cleaned and removed mechanically or with keratolytic plasters.
Mechanical processing is carried out with pliers or files.The patches soften the affected areas of the nail painlessly and non-traumatically.They are then removed with scissors or a blunt scalpel.
Bifonazole is used as a keratolytic to remove affected nails.The ointment included in the set is applied to the nail plate and covered with a bandage or adhesive plaster.After a day, the softened areas are cleaned and the process is repeated until the affected areas are completely removed.At the same time, treatment with local antifungal drugs is started.
Important.By properly preparing the nail plates, medications can quickly penetrate deep into the nails and destroy the fungal mycelium.
Medication and treatment
All medications for the systemic treatment of nail fungal diseases should be taken strictly as prescribed by a doctor and according to the instructions.Antifungal drugs often have side effects, age restrictions and contraindications.They must be taken into account.
Modern drugs for the treatment of toenail fungus are available in the form of tablets, ointments, varnishes, gels, solutions and sprays.The most effective result is achieved through the combined use of oral and local medications.
The following effective drugs have been successfully used:
Medications in tablet form – terbinafine, fluconazole, itraconazole, griseofulvin, ketoconazole.The active ingredients are highly effective against pathogenic fungal species.The recommended dosage is indicated in the instructions for use of the drug.The course of treatment depends on the severity of the disease and usually lasts 1.5 to 18 months.The use of pulse therapy is effective - taking a high dose of medication at short intervals with a break of 3 weeks.
Ointments, creams – naftifine hydrochloride, terbinafine, clotrimazole.The active ingredients in the preparations have fungistatic and fungicidal properties, i.e.h.they stop the growth and reproduction of fungi and destroy the mycelium.The products are applied to clean and dried nail plates 2-3 times a day.Good results are achieved in combination with medications in tablet form.
Gels, solutions, serums – terbinafine, etc. The antifungal component accumulates in keratinized cells and kills the fungus and its spores.
Antifungal nail polishes
One of the best remedies for toenail fungus is antifungal polish.It covers the surface with a thin, airtight film, blocking the access of oxygen to the affected area.
The active ingredients of the drug penetrate deep into the tissue, accumulate and destroy the pathogen.The coating is durable and does not collapse.Some varnishes can be applied decoratively.This is an added advantage if the treatment is done in summer.
Varnishes have a good therapeutic effect;They contain active ingredients – terbinafine, amorolfine, ciclopirox.Apply to a clean, dry nail 1 to 2 times per week for 1 to 12 months.They have contraindications.
Folk remedies for treating fungus at home
Home remedies are good for cleaning and disinfecting nails for onychomycosis.With regular use, fungal threads and spores are destroyed.
Combining traditional recipes and drug therapy allows you to achieve effective results.
One of the dangerous remedies for nail fungus is vinegar.Used in the form of baths, rubs and glycerin-based ointments.
Regular rubbing with iodine and celandine juice kills the pathogens that cause onychomycosis.
They have an anti-inflammatory effect and are very soothing baths with baking soda, tea tree oil or lavender.
Compresses made from onion or garlic pulp with vegetable oil fight fungal nail infections well.
Birch tar, a product of the distillation of birch resin, is known for its strong antifungal effects.
Important.Folk remedies for the treatment of nail fungus may have contraindications.You should consult your doctor before use.
How to avoid the need for treatment
To avoid a fungal infection and the need for treatment, you must take preventive measures:
- Avoid contact with other people's personal belongings.
- Wear shoes in bathhouses, saunas, showers and on the beach.
- strengthen the immune system, lead a healthy lifestyle;
- do not develop chronic diseases;
- Choose high-quality and comfortable shoes.
If symptoms of onychomycosis are detected, do not self-medicate.It is necessary to see a doctor, undergo an examination and undergo treatment with effective remedies for toenail fungus.