The nail plate, not affected by any diseases, has a smooth, shiny surface.When nail fungus appears, the initial phase is characterized by the fact that the plaque gradually becomes dull and the skin of the fingers and toes peels and itches.
First symptoms
Changes in the color and structure of the nail are not the only symptoms of a fungus.
At the initial stage, the nail plate may remain the same even though the infection has already occurred.
The main symptoms indicating the disease appear on the skin near the nails.Obvious signs of the initial stage of the fungus are peeling, burning and itching.The skin of the interdigital folds is much more delicate than that of the feet, so these areas are more susceptible to disease.
If you do not pay attention to the first signs of nail fungus, the disease will begin to progress.The infection will affect adjacent areas, blisters and sores will appear.Without treatment, the symptoms will not disappear and if proper treatment is not started immediately, the fungus will cover larger areas after a while.
Signs of fungus include:
- change in nail structure,
- thickening of areas of the epidermis,
- burning sensation,
- cracks in the skin between the fingers,
- fragility of the nails.
Anyone who comes into contact with the infection is at risk of contracting the fungus.Nail fungus spores enter the skin through open wounds, but even if there are no visible wounds, the infection can enter the body through microcracks on the feet.Outwardly, the skin can appear perfectly healthy, but at the same time have microscopic damage.Such cracks occur due to wearing shoes that are uncomfortable and tighter than necessary.Microcracks can also be caused by sand getting between your fingers.
Fungal infections often affect those with the following problems:
- excess weight,
- increased sweating,
- chronic diseases that reduce immunity.
Any factor that affects susceptibility to disease affects the possibility of infection.In order not to become infected with the fungus or to cure it faster, you need to stop smoking and drinking alcohol, as well as have your internal organs diagnosed, thereby eliminating the possibility of inflammatory processes.
Treatment and diagnosis
First of all, nail fungus affects the skin of the fingers and feet, because it is much more delicate than the nail plate.The infection spreads quickly and, penetrating through microcracks in the fingers, covers neighboring areas.The initial stage of nail fungus is characterized by itching and discomfort.In the first days after infection, the skin and nails may not show external changes, and only if the disease is not diagnosed in time and treatment is not started, the pathological process will become noticeable to the naked eye.
Nail fungus is a very contagious disease.Microorganisms live in humid environments, and infection often occurs in public places.As soon as a carrier appears in a bath or sauna, all subsequent visitors risk contracting the infection.The disease is contagious from its beginnings, when the carrier himself does not yet realize that he is sick.Increased caution should be exercised not only in baths and saunas, but also at home if any of the family members have suspicious symptoms.Shared towels, slippers, manicure tools, and even a poorly cleaned bathtub can cause infection.
Itching, cracks on the feet that heal poorly, and peeling skin are signs that indicate a fungal infection.At the initial stage, mycosis is treated much faster than after the appearance of more serious symptoms.
In no case should you self-medicate, as incorrectly chosen treatment can provoke the progression of fungal growth, then a secondary infection may occur and allergies may develop.
To obtain a correct diagnosis, a specialist examines the nail and, if a fungus is suspected, performs scraping.The resulting material is sent for microscopic examination.This is usually enough to make a correct diagnosis, but in some cases a culture test may be necessary.This allows you to get the most accurate picture of the disease, determine the type of bacteria and choose the right medication.At the initial stage, gentle treatment methods are used: varnishes and special antimycotic ointments for the skin.