Toenail fungus is among the most experienced conditions of feet. Its other name is onychomycosis and tends to grow slowly. It takes time before showing full symptoms. The condition is caused by dermatophytes, which are fungi. Parts of the body infected by dermatophytes are hair, nails and the skin. Toenail fungi are also able to be caused by yeast and molds. A Chattanooga podiatrist is able to treat the infection effectively.
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.
Over time, oral anti-fungal medicines have been used. They are very effective. However, they may not be an option for most people given that they have potential side effects and are also costly. Numerous over-the-counter topical medications are used for toenail fungus. Nonetheless, since the fungi are found deep in the nail, the effectiveness of this medication is limited.
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.
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.
Over time, oral anti-fungal medicines have been used. They are very effective. However, they may not be an option for most people given that they have potential side effects and are also costly. Numerous over-the-counter topical medications are used for toenail fungus. Nonetheless, since the fungi are found deep in the nail, the effectiveness of this medication is limited.
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.
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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