Nail fungus
Causes, symptoms, and treatment at the Pied Confort podiatric clinic
Nail fungus is a common problem that can affect anyone, at any age, and cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. It is a fungal infection of the nail, and if left untreated, it can cause serious effects to your foot health, including nail deformity.
To better understand the causes:
A nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is an infection of the nail plate (where your new nails are produced) by certain types of fungi. Often painless, contagious and can spread to other nails and skin. Easily observable signs, specifically in advanced cases. A degradation of the nail, a more and more important detachment, a thickening, a friability, unpleasant odors among others. Nail fungus is most often the cause of these signs and symptoms.
The entrance to fungal infections is created by the lifting of the nail. Cross-contamination via a pedicure using unsterilized instruments or contaminated nail polish, or simply walking barefoot in public places should also be considered.
The infection can progress and infect the entire nail. Once the root is affected, it will be more difficult to treat the nail by causing permanent damage. In at-risk populations, such as diabetics, athlete's foot can become infected with bacteria causing significant infections.
To better understand the treatment :
Your podiatrist will take a medical history and perform a physical examination of your foot and nail. If he or she suspects that you have nail fungus, he or she may take a sample of the nail for testing.
Depending on the severity of the infection and your specific needs, we use a combination of treatments to treat nail fungus. Treatment includes topical or oral antifungal medications, or a combination of both. Surgery may be considered to treat severe or advanced cases of nail fungus.
1. Depending on the severity of the infection and your specific needs, we use a combination of treatments to treat nail fungus. Treatment includes topical or oral antifungal medications, or a combination of both. Surgery may be considered to treat severe or advanced cases of nail fungus.
2. Oral treatment using antifungal pills.
At Pied Confort Podiatric Clinic, our team is committed to helping you understand and treat nail fungus. Our podiatrist is trained to provide you with the diagnosis, and treatment options so that you can return to a comfortable, healthy and active life.
