Hand Fungus

WHAT nail fungus?

An infection of nail fungus can occur when fungi infect one or more of your nail. A nail fungal infection may begin as a white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail or nail. As the nail fungus spreads deeper into your nail, it can cause the nail to discolor, thicken and develop crumbling edges - an unsightly and potentially painful problem.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS nail fungus

You may have a fungal infection of nails - (also called onychomycosis) - if one or more of your nails are:

* Thickened
* Fragile, brittle or ragged
Deformed *
* Dull, dull, bad weather
* A dark color, caused by construction debris under the nail

CAUSES

Fungi are microscopic organisms that do not need sunlight to survive. Some fungi have beneficial uses, while others cause illness and infection.

fungal nail infections are usually caused by a fungus that belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. But yeasts and molds can also be responsible for nail fungus.

RISK FACTORS

Nail fungus is more common among the elderly for several reasons, including the diversion of blood, more years of exposure to fungi and because nails may grow more slowly and thicken with aging, making them more susceptible to infection. Nail fungus also tends to affect men more than women and people with a family history of this infection. The resistance to fungal infection likely has a genetic component.

COMPLICATIONS

nail fungus can be painful and can cause permanent damage to your nails. They may also lead to other serious infections that can spread beyond your feet if you have a weakened immune system due to medication, diabetes or other conditions.

TREATMENT

Nail fungus can be difficult to treat and repeated infections are common. Over-the-counter-antifungal nail creams and ointments are available, but they are not very effective.

oral medications
To treat nail fungus, your doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medication, such as:

* Itraconazole (Sporanox)
* Fluconazole (Diflucan)
* Terbinafine (Lamisil)

These medications help a new nail grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected part of your nails. In general, you take these medications for six to 12 weeks, but will not see the final result of treatment until the nail completely rejects. It may take four months or more to eliminate an infection. Recurrent infections are possible, especially if you continue to expose your nails to warm, humid conditions.

antifungal drugs can also cause side effects ranging from skin rashes to liver damage. Doctors can not recommend them for people with liver disease or congestive heart failure or those taking certain medications.

PREVENTION

To help prevent and reduce fungal nail infections recurring labor practices and good foot hygiene by following these steps:

* Keep your nails short, clean and dry. Cut nails straight and file areas thickened. Dry your hands and feet, including between the toes after bathing.

* Wear appropriate socks. Synthetic socks that wick moisture to keep your feet dry, cotton or wool socks do (you can also wear synthetic socks under other socks). Change them often, especially if your feet sweat excessively. Remove your shoes from time to time during the day and after exercise. Other footwear with closed-toe shoes.

* Use an antifungal spray or powder. Spray or sprinkle your feet and inside your shoes.

* Wear rubber gloves. This protects hands from overexposure to water. Between uses, turn the rubber gloves inside.