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.
There may be a scheduled meeting with the podiatrist at the office. Such a session may involve debridement, removal of debris and trimming of affected areas. In so doing, thickness is reduced and discomfort relieved. Other available modes of therapy are oral medications and laser therapy.
A Chattanooga podiatrist gives the assurance that once treated, the infection rarely occurs again. In addition, preventive measures help in preventing re-infection. Toenail infection needs to be addressed as soon as it is noticed.
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.
There may be a scheduled meeting with the podiatrist at the office. Such a session may involve debridement, removal of debris and trimming of affected areas. In so doing, thickness is reduced and discomfort relieved. Other available modes of therapy are oral medications and laser therapy.
A Chattanooga podiatrist gives the assurance that once treated, the infection rarely occurs again. In addition, preventive measures help in preventing re-infection. Toenail infection needs to be addressed as soon as it is noticed.
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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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