Causes and risk factors
Nail fungus is caused due to dermatophytes or non dermatophytes. e.g. Fungi and candid. A strong family history can be associated. Wearing wet socks or shoes, damage or injury to the nail, heavy perspiration on palms and foot and walking bare foot near swimming areas or closets, predispose fungal infection of the nail. Certain diseases like diabetes and varicose vein increases the risk factor.
Symptoms
The patient usually comes up with complaints of thickening and discoloration of nails. The nails become white or black or yellow in color. Pain on walking or pressures is experienced. The shine and luster of the nails is lost. They become fragile and easily break off. In most of the people it may become a psychological disturbance for cosmetic reasons. Nail fungus if neglected can lead to infection in other areas. It can cause rash formation and itching.
Investigations
The diagnosis is done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and physical examination carried out by the dermatologist.PAS Stain test is done. In this the scraping of the nails are taken and microscopically examined for demonstration of the fungus.
Treatment
Treatment consists of administration of anti fungal medications, either oral administration or anti fungal ointments is prescribed. Anti fungal nail polish is found to be very effective. In severe cases and cases concerned of cosmetic purpose surgical intervention is recommended. In this laser treatment where radiations are used to destroy the affected part is done. Maintenance of good personal hygiene, use of footwear round the pool areas, use of clean towels and clothes and avoidance of using wet socks and shoes are certain measures to be adopted.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the disease. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
