Nail fungus: understand what it is, how to prevent and treat it

Nail fungus is an infection that makes the nail yellow, thick and deformed. It does not usually cause pain or discomfort, but its appearance is quite characteristic.

Dermatologist Cíntia Pessin explains that mycosis of the nail is the way we call the nail infection caused by fungi, onychomycosis. She understands better what is mycosis of the nail, how to prevent and treat this type of infection.

Symptoms

• nail thickening
• Nail fragility, which makes it brittle
• Distortions in the shape of the nail
• Loss of shine, leaving it dull
• darkening of the nail
• Detachment of the nail from the skin

The main symptoms of mycosis of the nail, according to Cíntia, are the change in nail color (which becomes more opaque or yellowish), thickening and detachment of the nail plate.

forms of contagion

Cíntia explains that mycosis of the nail can be transmitted through contact with contaminated instruments (such as nail clippers, files and even nail polish) or by microtraumas in the nails that favor the proliferation of fungi.

• Sharing materials: manicurists and beauty salons should use disposable and sterilized materials to avoid contagion.
• Walking barefoot: walking barefoot in swimming pools or public restrooms, for example, can facilitate contagion.
• Tight shoes: the constant aggression of shoes with the toenail can also cause ringworm.

Staying with wet feet and in contact with shared environments is one of the most common ways for the appearance of mycosis of the nail.

Types of nail fungus

• Distal subungual onychomycosis: it is the most common form of mycosis and is characterized by infection of the nail tip, extending posteriorly towards the cuticle.
• Proximal subungual onychomycosis: it is similar to the distal one, but its progression is opposite, starting close to the cuticle and extending towards the tip of the nail.
• Superficial white onychomycosis: the most common form of mycosis in children, it is characterized by white spots on the nail, usually close to the cuticle, but which can spread throughout the nail.

There are different types of toenail mycosis and different species of fungi that cause this disease. “The most frequent form of onychomycosis is the distal lateral one (that is, the initial change occurs in the most distal part and on one of the sides of the nail) and the fungus that most causes nail mycoses is Trichophyton rubrum”, teaches Cíntia.

Risk factors

Frequent trauma (caused by the use of tight shoes, physical activity with a lot of impact, such as soccer and running), frequent use of the same shoes or socks and keeping the feet wet are some of them, according to Cíntia. In addition, some diseases, such as diabetes, also favor the emergence of onychomycosis. Age is also a risk factor: people over 50 tend to have more nail fungus.

• Diabetes: Diabetes favors the emergence of mycoses in the nails.
• HIV: due to low immunity, HIV is also a risk factor.
• Age: Nail fungus is more common in people over 50.
• Immune Problems: People with compromised immune systems are more likely to have nail fungus.
• Circulation Problems: Lack of circulation can affect nail fungus.
• Trauma: caused by tight shoes or high-impact sports favor the emergence of mycoses.

treatment for ringworm

The treatment indicated will depend on the degree of involvement and the number of affected nails. “Treatment can be topical (use of antifungal solutions or nail polish) or systemic (oral use of antifungal agents)”, cites Cíntia.

One of the most common remedies in this case has been Fluconazole. Cíntia emphasizes that it is one of the oral treatment options, but it is not always the most appropriate. “When well indicated (mainly for alterations by fungi of the genus Candida), it has good efficacy. As the treatment may be needed for a few months, it can be a bit costly.” The ideal is never to use antifungals (either topical or systemic) without medical supervision.

Home remedies for nail fungus

• Clove oil: apply 2 to 3 drops to the affected nail at least 2 times a day. Clove has antifungal and healing action.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Likewise, apple cider vinegar is also an excellent antifungal and can be applied directly to the nail.
• Hydrogen peroxide: It has antiseptic properties. Soak the affected nail in a solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water in the same proportions for about 30 minutes.
• Garlic: Garlic is great for being antimicrobial and antifungal. Place 1 clove of garlic inside a bottle of chlorhexidine or Merthiolate and pass the mixture 3 times a day.
• Mint: Scalding your feet with mint tea helps fight ringworm. Soak your feet in the tea for 20 minutes.

Some homemade substances can help prevent fungal contamination. Vinegar, for example, is a substance proven to be effective as an adjunct in the treatment of initial nail mycoses, according to Cíntia.

Prevention of nail fungus

The methods for preventing nail fungus are effective and extremely simple: keep your feet dry, do not reuse socks without washing them, do not use the same shoes on consecutive days, avoid sharing nail tools (such as files and clippers). “You should also give preference to wearing shoes with socks (preferably cotton) and let the shoes air out for 24 hours after use.”

• Wear flip-flops in shared environments, such as swimming pools and public restrooms.
• Dry your feet and body well before getting dressed.
• Avoid using greasy creams.
• Do not use ointments without medical advice.
• Do not share manicure and pedicure materials.
• Do not wear shoes without socks and do not use the same shoes on consecutive days.

Although nail fungus is a simple infection, it needs treatment when diagnosed. Always seek the advice of a dermatologist, who will be able to prescribe the best treatment for you.