One of the most commonly experienced conditions of the feet is toenail fungus. It is also called onychomycosis and is an infection that is known to grow very slowly. It is brought about by dermatophytes. These are fungi that normally infect nails, hair and also the skin. There is also a possibility that yeast and molds may cause this infection. Luckily, a Chattanooga podiatrist can help in managing the condition.
Most importantly, there is need for people to confirm that indeed they are suffering from the condition. The infections occur under the nails and normally start from areas where nails get trimmed. Some of the time, these infections are seen as discolorations that are white and powdery at the top of nails. This is not surety of toenail fungus infection. Common symptoms of these infections are nails thickening, infected sections getting loose and areas beneath the nails getting discolored.
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.
Oral anti-fungal medicines are mostly used because they are very effective. However, they are not the preferred option for most people because they come with side effects and are expensive. There are many topical over-the-counter medications that may also be used. The level to which these are effective is limited by the fact that the fungi are found very deep in the nails.
The podiatrist may schedule an appointment at his office. This could involve debridement, removing debris or trimming down. This decreases nail thickness and relieves discomfort. Oral medications may be prescribed too. Management can also be done using laser therapy.
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.
Most importantly, there is need for people to confirm that indeed they are suffering from the condition. The infections occur under the nails and normally start from areas where nails get trimmed. Some of the time, these infections are seen as discolorations that are white and powdery at the top of nails. This is not surety of toenail fungus infection. Common symptoms of these infections are nails thickening, infected sections getting loose and areas beneath the nails getting discolored.
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.
Oral anti-fungal medicines are mostly used because they are very effective. However, they are not the preferred option for most people because they come with side effects and are expensive. There are many topical over-the-counter medications that may also be used. The level to which these are effective is limited by the fact that the fungi are found very deep in the nails.
The podiatrist may schedule an appointment at his office. This could involve debridement, removing debris or trimming down. This decreases nail thickness and relieves discomfort. Oral medications may be prescribed too. Management can also be done using laser therapy.
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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