Monday, October 18, 2021

How to get rid of a yeast infection

 How to get rid of a yeast infection

A yeast infection is a common type of fungal infection. It usually affects the genital area, causing pain, itching, and discharge. But how do you treat a yeast infection at home?

Women are more prone to vaginal yeast infections, with 75% experiencing at least one in their lifetime. However, men can also get a genital yeast infection.

A fungus called Candida albicans is the most common cause of these infections. However, other types of fungi can also be responsible.

There are a variety of treatments to fight yeast infections, including many home remedies that you can self-administer. This article explores eight home remedies for yeast infections and helps you find the best treatment for you.

Home remedies

east infections can be treated at home with antifungal creams available in pharmacies and drug stores.

In many cases, yeast infections can be easily and successfully treated at home. This can be done with over-the-counter products or with alternative therapies.

Anecdotal reports suggest that many women find relief using these home treatments.

However, scientific evidence varies as to the effectiveness of these alternative therapies.

1. Over-the-counter treatments
Antifungal treatments in the form of creams or pessaries can be purchased without a prescription to treat yeast infections. You can buy them over the counter and online, or you can find them at:

  • pharmacy
  • drugstores
  • supermarkets

Depending on the product, the treatment could be for external or internal use and treat the infection with:

  • single app
  • 3 day application
  • one week app

Internally applied treatments have been shown to cure more than 80% of vaginal yeast infections. These contain powerful antifungals called azoles.

2. Boric acid
Boric acid vaginal capsules can help women who have a yeast infection. These can be especially helpful for women with recurring infections.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests a 600 mg dose of boric acid in a capsule to be inserted vaginally once a day for 14 days. Before buying any suppository, consult a doctor.

Some research reports that topically applied boric acid, along with the antifungal flucytosine, successfully treats approximately 70% of women with this problem. This study examined women with yeast infections who did not respond to azole-based antifungal treatments.

3. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil has antifungal properties that can kill yeast and fungi.

Tea tree oil has traditionally been used for its antifungal properties. A review of studies on this essential oil confirmed its ability to kill a variety of yeasts and fungi.

In most of the studies reviewed, tea tree oil was tested to treat candida albicans , one of the most common fungi in vaginal infections.

Vaginal suppositories containing tea tree oil have been shown to treat vaginal yeast infections. Some women report relief from adding diluted tea tree oil to a tampon and inserting it into the vagina overnight.

However, many precautions must be taken when using tea tree oil, as it can irritate the skin, and the vaginal walls are particularly sensitive.

Tea tree is an essential oil and as such must be mixed with a base oil. The tampon can be soaked in a mixture of 3 to 5 drops of tea tree oil in 1 ounce of warmed coconut oil. It is important to change your tampon regularly.

Also, there may be people allergic to tea tree oil. Try using the diluted oil on a dime-sized area on your forearm, and if you don't have a reaction in 12 to 24 hours, it may be safe to use it on the genital area, which is more sensitive.

Other research indicates that a component of tea tree oil (terpinen-4-ol) improves the functioning of the common antifungal drug fluconazole. This is in cases of drug-resistant Candida albicans .

4. Probiotic supplements

Some probiotic supplements can offer a natural solution to yeast infection. You can get them at pharmacies and health stores, or online.

Some probiotic supplement brands sell products specially formulated for female reproductive health. These aim to restore the balance of bacteria and fungi in the vagina. The supplements are taken orally or inserted vaginally.

In a 2012 study, women with chronic yeast infections inserted a specially formulated probiotic pill into the vagina. About 87% reported an improvement in their symptoms. The treatment also had a long-term effect on the fungi that caused the infection.

In the study, the women used one pill every night for a week. They then inserted one every three nights for 3 weeks. After this, they used the treatment only once a week continuously as a preventive measure.

Other research suggests that the probiotic lactobacilli may increase the effectiveness of antifungal medications taken by women with vaginal yeast infection.

5. Natural yogurt

Unsweetened and unflavored plain yogurt contains beneficial bacteria called probiotics. These contribute to health and help restore the balance of bacteria and fungi in the body.

A 2006 research review found that certain types of probiotics can fight some of the fungi that cause vaginal infection. While those who reviewed the research pointed to some problems with several of the studies cited, many people reported relief from:

  • eat yogurt
  • applying yogurt to the vulva around the vagina
  • insert yogurt vaginally

6. Coconut oil
Coconut oil has antifungal properties and has been shown to fight the fungus Candida albicans . Raw organic coconut oil can be applied internally or externally to relieve symptoms.

Warm coconut oil can also be used as a base oil for stronger antifungal essential oils, including tea tree oil or oregano oil.

You can buy coconut oil online. Some products are made specifically for cooking, and not for use on skin, so shop around for products and brands to choose the appropriate product.

7. Garlic
Garlic is known to be an antifungal and antibiotic. However, recent research suggests that eating garlic has no effect on yeast levels in the vagina.

Some women have tried using garlic internally instead of eating it. They claim that placing a clove of garlic threaded with a thread in the vagina at night relieves them of yeast infections. While there is no evidence that this works, it is a low-risk home remedy for yeast infection.

People with sensitive skin may experience burning and even skin damage. Therefore, those who have sensitive skin should not use garlic. If the burning sensation worsens, it is necessary to discontinue use.

A vaginal cream containing garlic and thyme was also found to be as effective as clotrimazole vaginal cream for treating yeast infection.

8. Oil of oregano

Wild oregano oil can slow or stop the growth of fungi.

Most oregano oil is made from common oregano, origanum marjoram , which has no special properties.

However, oregano oil made from wild oregano, origanum vulgare , contains two powerful antifungals: thymol and carvacrol.

Some research has shown that using wild oregano oil stops or inhibits the growth of Candida albicans . Capsules containing oregano oil can be inserted into the vagina at night. Alternatively, it can be applied to a tampon before inserting it. We recommend that you compare different products.

Essential oils should be mixed with base oils before use and should never be applied directly to the skin. You can mix 3-5 drops of oregano essential oil in 1 ounce of sweet almond oil, warmed coconut oil, or olive oil. Soak a tampon in this mixture for a few minutes, then insert and change it every 2 to 4 hours during the day. A medicated tampon should not be left in for more than 6 hours. It's a good idea to do a forearm allergy test before using oregano oil.

When to avoid home remedies
Many home remedies are safe for most people who have yeast infections. However, the following people should not be treated at home:

  • pregnant women
  • anyone who has been exposed to a sexually transmitted infection
  • people with recurrent yeast infection
  • people who are not sure if their symptoms are caused by a yeast infection



Prevention
Vaginal yeast infections are a common problem that can be prevented by taking simple precautions. Between them:

  • wearing loose clothing and cotton underwear
  • avoid skinny jeans and pantyhose, as fungi thrive in hot, humid environments
  • remove wet bathing suit or gym clothes as soon as possible
  • avoiding vaginal sprays, perfumes, and lotions, which can irritate the vagina and cause an imbalance of bacteria and fungi
  • drying the genital area thoroughly after showering or bathing
  • avoiding douching
  • using a water-based lubricant during sex
  • showering after intercourse and oral sex
  • taking probiotics or eating foods rich in probiotics
  • reduce sugar intake, since mushrooms feed on sugar
  • taking antibiotics only when needed, as these upset the balance of bacteria and fungi in the body

consider using other contraceptive methods, as estrogen-based contraceptives can promote fungal growth

Vaginal Candidosis Treatment

 Vaginal Candidosis Treatment

Diagnosis
To diagnose a yeast infection, your doctor can:

  • Asking you questions about your medical history. This could include gathering information about past vaginal infections or sexually transmitted infections.
  • Get a pelvic exam. The doctor examines your external genitalia for signs of infection. The doctor then places an instrument (speculum) in your vagina to hold the walls of the vagina open and examine the vagina and cervix in the lower, narrower part of the uterus.
  • Analysis of vaginal secretions. The doctor may also send a sample of vaginal fluid for tests to determine the type of fungus causing the infection. Identifying the fungus can help your doctor prescribe a more effective treatment for recurrent yeast infections.


Treatment
Treatment of yeast infections depends on the severity and frequency of the infections.

For mild to moderate symptoms and infrequent episodes, your doctor may recommend the following:

  • Brief vaginal therapy. Taking an antifungal medicine for three to seven days usually relieves a vaginal yeast infection. Antifungal medications, which are available in creams, ointments, tablets, and suppositories, include miconazole (Monistat 3) and terconazole. Some of these drugs are available without a prescription and some are available only by prescription.
  • Single dose oral medications. Your doctor may prescribe a single oral dose of fluconazole (Diflucan). Oral medications are not recommended if you are pregnant. To control more severe symptoms, you can take two single doses three days apart.
  • See your doctor again if treatment doesn't resolve your symptoms or if symptoms return within two months.


If your symptoms are severe, or if you have frequent yeast infections, your doctor may recommend the following:

  • Long-term vaginal therapy. Your doctor may prescribe an antifungal medication that is taken daily for up to two weeks, followed by once a week for six months.
  • Oral medications in multiple doses. Your doctor may prescribe two or three doses of an antifungal medication to take by mouth instead of vaginal therapy. However, this therapy is not recommended for pregnant women.
  • Azole resistant therapy. Your doctor may recommend boric acid, a capsule that is inserted into the vagina. This medication can be fatal if taken by mouth and used only to treat candida fungus that is resistant to common antifungal agents.


Alternative medicine
No complementary treatment has been shown to treat vaginal yeast infections. Some complementary and alternative therapies can alleviate symptoms when combined with doctor's care.

Talk to your doctor about alternative vaginal yeast infection treatments that may be safe for you.

Preparation for the consultation
If you've been treated for a yeast infection in the past, your doctor may not need to examine you and prescribe treatment over the phone. Otherwise, you may need to see a general practitioner or gynecologist.

What you can do

  • Make a list of any symptoms you've had and for how long.
  • Take note of essential information , including other illnesses you have and the medications and supplements you take.
  • Avoid using tampons or douches before your appointment.
  • Make a list of questions to ask your doctor.
  • Questions to ask your doctor
  • Do I need to take medication?
  • Are there special instructions for taking the medications?
  • Is there an OTC product that treats my condition?
  • What can I do if my symptoms return after treatment?
  • How can I prevent candida infections?
  • What are the signs and symptoms to watch for?


During your consultation, do not hesitate to ask all the questions that occur to you.

What to expect from your doctor
Your doctor will likely ask you a number of questions, including the following:

  • What other vaginal symptoms have you had? How long have you had symptoms?
  • Do you notice a strong vaginal odor?
  • Have you ever been treated for a vaginal infection?
  • Have you tried over-the-counter products to treat the disease?
  • Have you taken antibiotics recently?
  • Do you have an active sex life?
  • You are pregnant?
  • Do you use scented soap or bubble bath?
  • Do you douche or use feminine hygiene spray?


Sunday, October 17, 2021

Laser treatment of skin and nail mycosis

 Laser treatment of skin and nail mycosis
Treatment of mycosis of the skin and nails with the Nd: Yag laser is an innovative and increasingly popular method of fighting this troublesome disease . Contrary to traditional methods (ointments, varnishes), pharmacological oral treatment or invasive surgical procedures - it allows you to get rid of the problem quickly and, above all, effectively and non-invasively.

Treatment of onychomycosis with a laser is painless, does not damage the nail plate and has no side effects . Most often, four treatments are enough to initiate the regeneration process of a new, healthy nail.


Ringworm cannot be taken lightly, treatment is necessary . This is not just an aesthetic defect. If left untreated, ringworm can spread to subsequent nails, spread to larger and larger areas of the skin, and even cause secondary bacterial infections. A sick person is a source of infection for others.

The causes of mycosis

  • - mechanical injuries of the nail, e.g. too tight footwear
  • - excessive sweating of the feet, improper hygiene
  • - practicing certain sports
  • - diabetes and other endocrine disorders
  • - psoriasis
  • - allergic diseases
  • - immunity disorders
  • - genetic predisposition
  • - chronic venous and ischemic limb disease
  • - improperly performed procedures in beauty salons (manicure, pedicure)
  • - you can get infected in many places, such as swimming pools, saunas, spas, in the shower (the infection is favored by a humid environment)
  • - sharing gloves or shoes with an infected person.


Symptoms of onychomycosis

  • - change in the color of the nail (yellowish, slightly brown, greenish)
  • - thickening and elevation of the plate
  • - jagged edges, brittleness and weakening of the nail plate
  • - pain in the nails causing discomfort when walking or working with your hands.


Mechanism of action
The treatment of laser removal of onychomycosis is based on irradiating the plate with a laser beam. The laser waves are bactericidal and fungicidal, and stimulate the immune processes of the nail.

The light beam illuminates the entire affected nails, also acting on the nail shaft and matrix. The device does not touch the surface of the nail, but it is moved about 1-2 cm above the plate. The laser light penetrates the nail plate, eliminating the fungi underneath it. It does not damage the nail itself or the skin surrounding it.

Number and frequency of treatments
The therapy is performed in a series: usually 2-3 treatments at intervals of approx. 14 days, another 3-5 treatments every approx. 30 days.

Advantages of the method

  • - a few short treatments allow you to get rid of the problem, after the therapy, the process of full reconstruction of the nail plate and new nail regrowth begins
  • - the therapy is painless and contactless, without additional regeneration or healing time,
  • - allows new nails to grow without side effects.


Effects
Treatment effects are not immediate. Laser therapy enables the gradual reconstruction and regrowth of healthy nails. The final effect is related to the cycle of complete regrowth of the nail, which is 5-6 months for fingernails and 12-18 months for toenails. After this period, we can enjoy healthy, bright, simple and aesthetically pleasing nails.

Laser treatment of mycosis

 Laser treatment of mycosis

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT ABOUT?
Onychomycosis is one of the most common dermatological problems, affecting a large proportion of the population. Treatment of onychomycosis consists in irradiating both the nail and the surrounding space with the FOTONA laser beam. The treatment can be used both in the area of ​​the entire foot or hand, as well as in places where single fungal lesions occur.

The treatment is fully effective and ensures getting rid of the infection causing the symptoms of mycosis. Before starting a series of treatments, it is worth diagnosing the type of nail disease. For this purpose, a mycological examination is performed, thanks to which it is possible to confirm the assumption about the factor causing the nail change. In the course of laser therapy, pharmacological treatment in the form of antibiotics is additionally implemented. Its task is to fully eliminate the pathogen from the body. Treatments are performed in a series of 4 laser irradiation sessions at intervals of 3-4 days, and then treatments are performed to consolidate the achieved effects of therapy - 1 per month for a period of 3-4 consecutive months.

FOR WHOM?
The treatment is intended for people who have problems with mycosis of the nail surface. Early treatment gives much better results.

BENEFITS
The treatment is an action on a nail that is still alive. In the case of surgical removal of the nail, the patient is exposed to pain, moreover, it is not certain that the nail will grow back, because its matrix may be irreversibly damaged during the procedure. Thus, when using laser treatment, there is no risk of nail loss, only its regrowth is expected within the standard period of several months of treatment.

WITH WHAT TO COMBINE THE TREATMENT?

It is recommended to prepare the nail plates in the form of filing them on the surface, which facilitates the penetration of laser rays into the plate, where fungal spores have already reached. The nail preparation procedure can be performed by a specialist - a podiatrist.

Laser treatment of onychomycosis

 Laser treatment of onychomycosis

Onychomycosis (nail thrush) is one of the most commonly diagnosed diseases of the feet. It used to be a rarity, but now the number of cases of this disease is increasing dramatically. According to the podiatrytoday.com website, approximately 2-3% of the population experiences this problem, and this percentage increases with age, reaching the level of 15% in people aged 40 to 60 years.

According to the website mushroom, about 20% of Poles suffer from mycosis - diagnosed or not. This problem is often underestimated because it does not cause pain for a long time (until the plaque is chipped and the skin is more sensitive). The fungus attacks the skin and nails, and if left untreated, it spreads to the next fingers, causing the plate to deform, itching and burning. In order to be able to implement the appropriate method of treatment , it is first necessary to know the type of fungi that have attacked the patient. To do this, go to a dermatologist who will perform a culture. In the case of yeast infection, the test results can be known after 7 days, and in the case of an infection caused by dermatophytes, it is necessary to wait 3 weeks.

Who is at risk of onychomycosis?
In the past, many doctors considered onychomycosis as a cosmetic defect that should be monitored but not treated. Modern research has shown that this is a wrong approach, especially since 75% of people affected by onychomycosis also have psychosocial disorders. Such people avoid using public showers, visits to the swimming pool, and they do not buy open-toed shoes.

Inhibitions caused by shame can affect the intimate life and contact with loved ones, as well as prevent a visit to a specialist. The myth that mycosis is caused by a lack of proper hygiene may also be a barrier to visiting a doctor. Meanwhile, this is only one of several factors that can trigger a fungal infection.

According to the experts of the portal ogrzybicypatulci.pl, the risk group includes mainly:

  • young people
  • people leading a stressful lifestyle
  • people taking certain types of drugs
  • lovers of sweet, carbonated drinks, coffee and cigarettes


Laser therapy as a method of treating onychomycosis
Among the methods of treating mycosis, there are pharmacology and conservative methods involving the use of antifungal preparations. The laser therapy with the use of a neodymium-yag laser is also very popular among patients . The laser treatment is an alternative to therapy with antifungal varnishes or orally administered preparations. During a session with the use of a laser, the fungal infection is removed without the risk of side effects, and the therapy itself consists in irradiating the nail plate and surrounding tissues with the laser beam.

As can be found at sterishoe.com, in 2012 a group of researchers in Alberta thoroughly analyzed all available work on laser treatment of nail yeast disease. Among the documents examined there was an analysis of 42 cases in which 100% efficacy of therapy was demonstrated after 12 months, as well as a paper in which it was proved that 85% of patients felt improvement after 4 laser treatments, carried out within 6 months. The analyzed cases allowed scientists to conclude that onychomycosis laser therapy  is the most effective treatment method currently available on the market.

The course of laser treatment of onychomycosis
Treatment of onychomycosis with a laser requires several preparations. The patient should decontaminate the footwear, do not sunbathe for 4 weeks before the procedure, and a week before visiting the doctor, it is recommended to discontinue medications such as anticoagulants, steroids and photosensitizers. You can start using them 14 days after the laser treatment. On the day of the procedure , alcohol is not allowed, and all cosmetics should be washed off the surface on which the procedure will be carried out.

The laser treatment of onychomycosis involves irradiating the plate - the laser head does not touch the surface, but moves above it at a height of about 1-2 cm. Appropriately adjusted system parameters have a thermal effect on fungal hyphae, leading to their destruction. The procedure takes about 10-20 minutes and does not require anesthesia. The therapy is usually divided into stages, repeated approximately every 6 weeks. If the regrowth of the nail plate shows no signs of fungal activity, another treatment is not necessary. Usually, the results of treating toenails are visible after 3 months due to the slow growth of the plaque.

Post-treatment recommendations
After the therapy, it is not recommended to use hot baths and saunas for about 2 weeks. Special antifungal creams should be used twice a day for 3 months . If the toenails are infected with mycosis, the product should be applied to the surface of the plates and to the skin up to the ankles to eliminate the risk of reinfection. All previously used socks should be discarded as they contain fungi. It is recommended to wear shoes with bare toes whenever possible. The same towels as other family members should not be used.

How to cure nail fungus and how much does it cost

 How to cure nail fungus and how much does it cost

I have been treating toenail fungus for five years - the disease goes away and then comes back again.

During this time, I have already tried, probably, all types of folk remedies, several times I went to the doctor. In the article I will tell you what nail fungus is, why it occurs, why it is dangerous and how to get rid of it.

There will be photos in the article - they are not the most pleasant. But forewarned means armed, because most often the fungus can be suspected by the appearance of the nails.

See a doctor
Our articles are written with a passion for evidence-based medicine. We refer to reputable sources and go for comments from reputable doctors. But remember: the responsibility for your health lies with you and your doctor. We do not write prescriptions, we make recommendations. It is up to you to rely on our point of view or not.

What is nail fungus
Officially, this disease is called onychomycosis - a fungal infection of the nail. In 60-70% of cases, it is caused by special dermatophyte fungi; infection from molds and yeasts is less common. To live, reproduce and grow, dermatophytes need a protein called keratin. That is why these fungi live in the nail plates, hair and the stratum corneum - where keratin is produced.

Onychomycosis: Epidemiology, clinical features, and diagnosis  - article on Uptodate

Usually, the fungus begins to develop from the side of the cut of the nail. The tip of the nail gradually changes color: it becomes yellowish, light brown or milky. If left untreated, the infection spreads towards the cuticle. The fungus can also start from the lateral surface of the nail.

There is also white superficial onychomycosis. Outwardly, it looks like white or dull spots on the surface of the nail. It spreads from the center to the edges, if the disease is not treated, it can cover the entire nail plate.

Occasionally, proximal onychomycosis occurs - it affects the nail in the cuticle and root area. This usually happens in people with weakened immunity.

When the nail is completely destroyed due to the fungus, this condition is called general dystrophic onychomycosis. Outwardly, the nail looks terrible: it is thick, ribbed and an unpleasant dark color.

Nail fungus is not skin fungus
Fungus of nails should not be confused with fungus of the skin or "fungus of the feet", even if they are looking for it on the Internet under these requests.

Doctors call nail fungus onychomycosis, this word is derived from the Greek όνυχο - "nail" and μύκης - "mushroom". In the vast majority of cases, it affects the toenails. Fungi on the skin are called dermatomycosis - they settle not only on the feet, but also on other parts of the body.

These diseases are caused by similar pathogens, but they have different symptoms and different treatments. In this article, we will talk specifically about nail fungus.

Causes of occurrence
Nail fungus is a very common disease. Onychomycosis accounts for 50-60% of all nail problems. I do not know where I picked up the fungus myself, but here are the ways doctors give it.

Contact with contaminated surfaces. The causative agents of the fungus are very fond of dampness, and therefore live well in humid rooms - baths or swimming pools. Sometimes, as a bonus, the fungus is brought from beauty salons after a manicure or pedicure: just one micro-cut and poorly processed tools are enough - and that's it, the disease is right there. You can also get fungus if you put shoes on your bare feet after a sick person.

What to do?
Should beauty salon employees have medical records?

Intrafamilial infection. The fungus is highly contagious. If one of the household members is sick , the rest of the family can also become infected with onychomycosis. The risks are increased if you use the same slippers, a common washcloth or bath mat. However, the fungus can even be transmitted through carpets, which is why it is so important for a person with diseased nails to follow the rules of hygiene.

Poor hygiene. If a person does not wash his feet well, does not cut his nails on time, rarely changes socks, it will be easier for him to pick up the fungus.

Tight shoes. This is another factor that increases the risk of the disease. When we wear tight shoes, the blood supply in the foot and nail roots is disrupted. Onychodystrophy may develop - a condition that looks like nail fungus and is often associated with it.

Shoes that won't let you down: 6 more proven Russian brands
Certain professions. Fungus of nails is much more common in people of some professions - housekeepers, cooks, cleaners, car wash workers. They often come into contact with damp surfaces, wear rubber shoes and rubber gloves, and use chemicals that soften the nail plate. And the fungus is very fond of all this and actively grows in such conditions.

Comorbidities increase the risk of infection because they weaken the immune system. Fungus is more common in people who suffer from varicose veins, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease or malignant neoplasms. Smokers and obese people are also at risk. Excessive sweating - hyperhidrosis - also promotes the growth of fungi.

Typically, the fungus occurs in people 30 and older, especially the elderly. Children get sick less often and respond better to local treatment: they have a thinner nail plate, and the nail itself grows faster. It turns out that with a shorter exposure to the drug, the effect in children comes faster.

Onychomycosis: Managemen  - Article on Uptodate. Section Dermatophyte Onychomycosis

Is it possible to get a fungus in the pool

Toenail fungus is really easy to get in humid rooms and places where there are a lot of people. This is due to the fact that the nail plates quickly soften, plus in such an environment the fungi themselves actively multiply.

To protect yourself, you must definitely wear shoes, thoroughly wash your feet and disinfect them - there are often baths or taps with special solutions before entering the pool hall. It is important to use only your own towels and never wear someone else's shoes.

Why the fungus is dangerous
Fungus of nails does not just spoil the appearance of the feet, it is a real disease that is dangerous to the body. If left untreated, the fungus on one nail will spread to the rest of the nails that are still healthy. In some people, a fungal infection can cause allergies  - the fungus itself becomes the allergen.

Dermatophyte fungi feed on keratin, so there is not enough of it for nail growth. Because of this, they become brittle, crumble and exfoliate. Over time, "keratin debris" will begin to accumulate between the nail and the nail bed - it is formed when keratin is destroyed due to the influence of fungi on it. From this, the nail becomes thicker and grows crookedly. Despite the fact that the nail is thick, it is still very fragile - it will catch on clothes and easily break.

Sometimes, with nail fungus, the feet begin to sweat more than usual - this leads to an unpleasant odor, so you have to change socks several times a day.

If the infected nail is left untreated for a long time, it will begin to separate from the nail bed. First , it just hurts. Secondly , a semblance of a wound will appear at the site of the removed nail, a moist warm environment will appear - just the kind that dermatophytes love. In it, they will grow even faster.

And neglected nail fungus is expensive to treat. Most likely, the person will have to buy medications and change all shoes after treatment is complete. If at the initial stages of onychomycosis it can be disinfected with the help of special disinfecting solutions, then after recovering from a neglected disease, all old shoes will have to be thrown away so as not to become infected again.

The fungus significantly reduces the quality of life. I was physically uncomfortable: my legs were sweating, my nails were thick, crumbled and broke. Even in the summer I had to walk in closed shoes so as not to frighten others. In addition, the fungus severely limited activity: I could not really play sports and go to the pool. I read that some people have such a feeling of shame, which sometimes even rolls into severe depression. Fortunately, I didn't get to that.

Folk remedies for the treatment of nail fungus

 Folk remedies for the treatment of nail fungus

In the summer we travel a lot, visit public beaches, visit swimming pools and showers. Sometimes we are even carried on long voyages to the seas, where, willy-nilly, we have to use public beaches or toilets. All these are places of increased accumulation of infections, where you can often catch nail fungus. Its treatment is far from an easy process, but do not despair - you can still get rid of the fungus on the nails!

Nail fungus is a common condition that usually starts with a small spot under the tip of the nail. It comes in both white and yellow. Contrary to popular belief, the fungus occurs both on the legs and on the hands. If it is not noticed in time, the fungal infection begins to spread deeper. Over time, the fungus can lead to discoloration, thickening and crumbling of the nail plate. This can affect several adjacent nails, even if only one was initially infected.

When the condition is mild and does not bother you, you may not need serious treatment. If you have severe pain caused by nail fungus, popular care tips and various medications can help you. Be attentive to your feet, because even with successful treatment, nail fungus often returns. Another popular name for the fungus is onychomycosis (on-ih-koh-my-KOH-sis). And the condition when the fungus affects the area between the toes and the skin of the feet is called mycosis of the foot (tinea pedis).

Even if you have never encountered nail fungus and have no idea what it looks like, then you will never miss this unbearable itch. It will not be superfluous to apply some kind of recipe for infection for prevention, so that the process does not take the stage of running. So, many people recommend using vinegar to disinfect the area where the fungus is likely to get. The main symptoms of nail and foot fungus are:

  • Itching in the area of ​​infection;
  • Changed color of the nail plate;
  • Splitting and fragility of the nail;
  • Painful sensations on the foot.


Effective treatment should be started at the very first symptoms of nail fungus; special creams and ointments with antifungal action will help you. The essence of professional remedies for getting rid of fungal infections on the feet is that they not only eliminate the symptoms, but also destroy the very source of infection.

A fungal infection can develop in people of any age, but is more common in older people. With age, the nail can become brittle and dry. The resulting cracks on the nails allow fungi to penetrate inside. Other factors, such as decreased blood circulation in the legs, a weakened immune system, can also play a significant role in increasing the likelihood of infection.

A fungal infection on the feet can start from the athlete's foot (foot fungus) and then spread from one toe to the other. At the same time, it is unlikely to become infected with a fungus from someone, you are more likely to pick it up in a public place, in contact with the environment.