Fungal toenail disease (onychocomycosis) is caused by dermatophyte fungi and microsporia.In a study on leg diseases carried out in 2003, 16 European countries recognized it as the most common.
The fungus can affect the free edge of the nail, the sides, the back fold and the entire nail plate.Depending on the severity of the disease, onychocomycosis is distinguished:
- normotrophic;
- hypertrophic;
- atrophic.
Changes in the color and structure of the nail can be minor or significant, up to its complete destruction.
The pharmaceutical industry produces effective treatments for toenail fungus.These are tablets, varnishes, sprays, ointments and solutions.Along with this, traditional medicine recipes are used, which have accumulated extensive experience in the treatment of mycoses.
With all the variety of medicines and folk remedies, it is not possible to start self-medication.After diagnosis, a consultant mycologist or dermatologist will recommend the best way to treat toenail fungus.In approximately 50% of cases, patients experience non-fungal deformation of the nail plate.
What you need to know before starting anti-fungal treatment.
The main route of transmission of the infection is contact.Fungal spores reproduce well in warm, humid environments.Therefore, you can become infected with onychomycosis:
- through the patient's personal belongings (shoes, towels, socks);
- in baths, saunas, swimming pools, beaches, wherever people go barefoot;
- in pedicure rooms where sanitary and hygienic requirements are not met.
The reason why the infection penetrates directly into human cells is a decrease in local and general immunity.These are:
- chronic diseases: diabetes, blood diseases, gastrointestinal tract;
- nail injuries, foot abrasions;
- past viral illnesses;
- taking antibiotics, corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs;
- HIV, immunodeficiency.
A fungal infection, having passed through the "open door", begins active life.Aggravate the course of the disease:
- hyperhidrosis of the feet - increased sweating;
- constant wearing of tight shoes made of low-quality materials;
- lack of personal hygiene.
Before starting treatment and choosing a remedy for nail fungus, it is necessary to analyze the causes of the disease.Joint therapy and elimination of factors that provoke the development of onychocomycosis can be of great help.This disease is known for its frequent relapses.
Examinations before starting treatment for toenail fungus.
At the appointment, a dermatologist examines the infected area, determines changes in the color and structure of the nails and the nature of the lesion.Takes tissue samples to analyze by scraping them with a special instrument.
The type of pathogen is determined by microscopy or inoculation into a nutrient medium.The sample is treated with a special compound and examined under a microscope.The analysis lasts from 15 minutes to a day.When sowing, a piece of infected tissue is placed so that it germinates under favorable conditions for 25-30 days.
The external manifestations of onychochomycosis are similar to the symptoms of other diseases: psoriasis, keratoderma, onychodystrophy and lichen planus.Laboratory diagnosis determines:
- presence of fungi;
- its type;
- quantitative characteristics of the infection;
- Drug sensitivity.
Urine and blood tests are prescribed to identify the stage of the disease, infection of internal organs and possible side effects of medications.After treatment, the tests are repeated.
PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests show high accuracy in determining the pathogen.This type of research determines the type of fungus in case of mild external manifestations of the disease, helps to select an effective and effective drug and accelerate recovery.
Preparatory procedure for treatment.
In order for the treatment to provide benefits and maximum effect, it is necessary to prepare the nails for drug treatment.To do this, the affected areas of the nail plates are cleaned and removed mechanically or with keratolytic dressings.
Mechanical processing is carried out with tweezers or files.The patches soften the affected areas of the nail in a painless and non-traumatic way.After this, they are removed with scissors or a dull scalpel.
Bifonazole is used as a keratolytic agent to remove affected nails.The ointment included in the kit is applied to the nail plate and covered with a bandage or plaster.After a day, the soft areas are cleaned and the procedure is repeated until the affected areas are completely eliminated.At the same time, treatment with local antifungals is started.
Important.Good preparation of the nail plates allows drugs to quickly penetrate the nails and destroy the mycelium of the fungus.
Medications and treatment
All medications for the systemic treatment of fungal nail diseases should be taken strictly as prescribed by the doctor and according to the instructions.Antifungals often have side effects, age restrictions, and contraindications.You have to take them into account.
Modern drugs for the treatment of toenail fungus are available in the form of tablets, ointments, varnishes, gels, solutions and sprays.The most effective result is achieved with the combined use of oral and local medications.
The following effective drugs have been used successfully:
Tablet medications: terbinafine, fluconazole, itraconazole, griseofulvin, ketoconazole.The active ingredients have high activity against pathogenic fungal species.The recommended dosage is indicated in the instructions for the medication.The course of treatment depends on the severity of the disease, usually 1.5 to 18 months.The use of pulse therapy is effective: taking a high dose of the drug at short intervals with a break of 3 weeks.
Ointments, creams: naftifine hydrochloride, terbinafine, clotrimazole.The active components of the preparations have fungistatic and fungicidal properties, that is, they stop the growth and reproduction of fungi and destroy the mycelium.The products are applied to clean and dry nail plates 2-3 times a day.Good results are obtained when combined with tablet medications.
Gels, solutions, serums: terbinafine, etc.The antifungal component accumulates in keratinized cells and kills the fungus and its spores.
Antifungal nail polishes
One of the best treatments for toenail fungus is antifungal varnish.It covers the surface with a thin airtight film, blocking oxygen access to the affected area.
The active components of the drug penetrate deep into the tissues, accumulate and destroy the pathogen.The coating is durable and does not collapse.Some varnishes can be applied as decorative.This is an additional advantage if the treatment is carried out in summer.
Varnishes have a good therapeutic effect;contain active ingredients: terbinafine, amorolfine, cyclopirox.Apply to clean, dry nail 1-2 times a week for 1 to 12 months.They have contraindications.
Popular remedies for home fungal treatments.
Home remedies are good for cleaning and disinfecting nails with onychomycosis.With regular use, fungal threads and spores are destroyed.
By combining traditional recipes and drug therapy, effective results can be achieved.
One of the dangerous remedies for nail fungus is vinegar.It is used in the form of baths, rubs and ointments based on glycerin.
Regular rubbing with iodine and celandine juice kills the causative agents of onychomycosis.
Baths with baking soda, tea tree oil or lavender have an anti-inflammatory effect and are very soothing.
Compresses made from onion pulp or garlic with vegetable oil fight fungal nail infections well.
Birch tar, a product of the distillation of birch resin, is known for its powerful antifungal effect.
Important.Home remedies for the treatment of nail fungus may have contraindications.You should consult your doctor before using them.
How to avoid the need for treatment.
To avoid getting a fungal infection and the need for treatment, it is necessary to follow preventive measures:
- avoid contact with other people's personal belongings;
- wear shoes in baths, saunas, showers and beaches;
- strengthen the immune system, lead a healthy lifestyle;
- not develop chronic diseases;
- Choose comfortable, high-quality shoes.
If symptoms of onychomycosis are detected, do not self-medicate.It is necessary to visit a doctor, undergo an examination and undergo treatment with effective remedies against toenail fungus.