There Is A Fungus Among Us

Fungal nail infections, otherwise known as onychomycosis, are an unsightly problem for millions of Americans. The dry, discolored, and brittle nails can grow very thick, and can even cause some discomfort in a number of people. The nails can stick to socks, and can be an embarrassing thing to reveal at the beach.

Trychophyton rubrum is the most common type of fungus that is involved in onychomycosis. T. rubrum is a dermatophyte, which means that it can live in the skin and nails. There are other organisms that can be involved in fungal nail infections as well, most of which are dermatophytes.

Onychomycosis is easily picked up from the environment. The spores of the fungus are capable of living anywhere, but are very easily transmitted through damp environments. This may include a public shower, pool, or gym.

The best treatment for onychomycosis, much like many other health problems, is prevention. This includes measures like wearing sandals in the gym shower or around the pool deck. Dry your feet completely before putting socks on, especially in between the toes. Wear socks that will keep your feet dry, and avoid socks made of nylon or other material that will promote sweating.

Fungal nail infections are commonly seen with associated fungal infections of the feet. It is common for a fungal infection of the feet to spread to the nails, but usually not from the nails to the feet. If you have had athlete’s foot before, spraying your feet with Tinactin or another athlete’s foot spray may help prevent the fungal infection from spreading to the nails.

Besides prevention, there are some treatment options if you’ve already got onychomycosis. Topical medications are available both over the counter, as well as through your podiatrist. These can help prevent the spread of the fungus any further, but will usually not be enough to get rid of the infection completely. Oral medications are available, the most popular being Lamisil. Oral medications are only available through prescription.

It is important to treat onychomycosis as well as fungal infections of the foot (also known as athlete’s foot); though it is estimated that only one in six will seek professional treatment. It may not be painful, and it may not seem like a big deal at first, but a prolonged fungal infection of the feet and nails can lead to other problems. If the integrity of the skin is compromised, a secondary bacterial infection may occur. Bacterial infections are more serious than fungal infections, and can lead to systemic illness.

Central Florida Foot & Ankle Center, LLC
101 6th Street N.W.
Winter Haven, FL 33881
Phone: 863-299-4551
http://www.FLFootandAnkle.com