Most individuals do not pay heed to problems like toenail fungus. Generally, we take it for granted; thinking it to be a harmless fungus, and it will cure after some time. Soon, you realize the problem is not as simple as you imagined.
In this situation, you will probably try various remedies and ask for suggestions from others. However, you will soon discover, nothing is working and the condition is worsening by the day. Hopefully, this article will be an eye-opener, and you can pay a timely visit to a doctor for getting treatment.
The main causes of toenail fungus
It is time to reflect on how did the problem occur at the first place? It must have begun when you first saw a little yellowing in the toenail and gradually it progresses to a widespread fungus. Multiple causes can attribute causing such toenail fungus.
Some of the factors are diabetes, environmental factors, poor circulation, keeping the feet wet for too long, and many more. Nevertheless, toenail fungus can spread quickly. Read on, as we list the possible symptoms below. If you witness any one of these symptoms, do not hesitate booking an appointment with a doctor. Ideally, you should start searching top Torrance podiatrist near me as soon as possible.
Some symptoms of toenail fungus
The toenail might become fragile and ragged. In most cases, the edges of the toenails will crumb.
If you observe unnatural thickening of the toenail, it is an obvious sign of fungal infection.
During the growing period of the nails, you might observe the shape to distort and it becoming thicker than normal.
The original color of the toenail will no longer be visible, instead it will turn darker. The dark color is owing to the dirt accumulation on the toenails.
The primary signs of a toenail fungus are when the nails emit bad odor.
Toenails can also change colors randomly like white-yellow or yellow-brown.
You can either experience any one or a combination of the above symptoms. You are welcome trying home remedies. Additionally, it is worth trying applying anti-fungal ointments, specially designed creams for nails, and oral medications. You can also cut the toenail periodically and clean the accumulated dirt.
You would be better off, if you can try some preventive measures to avoid the onset of a toenail fungus, and these are as follows:
While trimming the nails, follow the right pattern. The best way to cut it would be straight across. Make sure, you do not leave the underside of the nail unattended.
Maintain a good hygiene, as soon as you touch the feet, wash your hands thoroughly.
If you need to wear socks for the most of the day, opt for sweat-absorbent varieties. Damp or wet feet can trigger toenail fungus, and it is the main cause for most individuals.
Sometimes, when you need to walk barefoot on wet grounds, pools, try using specific products like shower shoes, cover-toed sneakers, and sandals.
The bottom line, keep the feet dry as much as possible.
When visiting a toenail fungus foot doctor becomes indispensable?
Despite trying over-the-counter medications and all the home remedies possible, if the condition shows no signs of improvement, consider seeking professional help. Watch out for the red flags that make it obligatory seeking medical help. The symptoms to watch out for are as follows:
The toenail fungus leads to swelling of the toe and it turns red with discoloration. Simultaneously, it becomes tender, and you feel extreme pain when you touch the nails.
The toes might feel hotter than the rest of your body.
The infected toenail starts emitting pus. It can come out from the adjoining areas of the toe also.
If you observe red steaks around the toe affected with fungus.
The toenail fungus leads to unbearable pain, and the infection gradually spreads to the skin.
The role of the toenail fungus foot doctor
The doctor upon examining the condition will prepare a line of treatment. Primarily, they will aim for relieving the painful condition and take steps to restrict the spread of the infection. Oral prescriptions should be the best way to overcome this irritating problem.
In some cases, they can recommend anti-fungal nail polish. These are specially designed nail polishes that can get rid of the stubborn fungus. Furthermore, you can apply certain strength nail creams on the infected area. It will clean the accumulated dirt, and safeguard the toenails from further damage.
In the unfortunate event where the fungal infection reaches a stage that cannot be cured with medications, doctors have to resort to surgical interventions. Doctors will remove the infected nail surgically and recommend ointments for the nail bed.
If you are dealing with toenail fungus right now, please do not become hyper learning this. Such extreme cases occur rarely. Mostly, the problem should be gone for good with the help of oral medications and application of anti-fungal creams. Be assured, surgery is the last thing the doctors would recommend unless the problem has no other solution.
So, that is it. You should now be able to assess the seriousness of toenail fungus, and when you should look for medical intervention.