Among the very common feet infections are toenail fungi. The infection is also known as onychomycosis and acts very slowly on the affected areas. It is caused by fungi known as dermatophytes which affect the skin, nails and hair. Toenail fungus may also be caused by yeasts and molds. Fortunately, a Chattanooga podiatrist can effectively treat the infection.
Most importantly, there is need for people to confirm that indeed they are suffering from the condition. The infections occur under the nails and normally start from areas where nails get trimmed. Some of the time, these infections are seen as discolorations that are white and powdery at the top of nails. This is not surety of toenail fungus infection. Common symptoms of these infections are nails thickening, infected sections getting loose and areas beneath the 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.
One may have an appointment with the podiatrist at his office for even more effective management. This includes debridement, debris removal or trimming down, which are all meant to decrease thickness of affected areas and reduce discomfort. Other options of management are oral therapy and use of lasers.
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, there is need for people to confirm that indeed they are suffering from the condition. The infections occur under the nails and normally start from areas where nails get trimmed. Some of the time, these infections are seen as discolorations that are white and powdery at the top of nails. This is not surety of toenail fungus infection. Common symptoms of these infections are nails thickening, infected sections getting loose and areas beneath the 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.
One may have an appointment with the podiatrist at his office for even more effective management. This includes debridement, debris removal or trimming down, which are all meant to decrease thickness of affected areas and reduce discomfort. Other options of management are oral therapy and use of lasers.
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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