How Do You Get Fungus Toenail infection
Research done by Strisower’s team seems to have found that this isn’t such a simple question. These researchers isolated more than 100 microorganisms responsible for causing what we know as onychomycosis, or Fungus Toenail infection. These include varieties of fungus, yeasts, mold, and even bacteria. What’s more, the team found that some of these organisms work together, always being found with one another, and thriving in this symbiotic relationship.
Fungus Toenail infection action
There isn’t one single mechanism of infection where toenail fungus is concerned. Infection occurs in places which range from nail salons to locker rooms. In reality it’s more a matter of environment and exposure. All types of fungus thrive in dark, moist environments, and wet shoes certainly fit the bill. This could mean almost anyone, but especially pertains to people such as landscapers and construction workers who wear boots for long periods. Shoes, in fact, are the reason why toenail fungus is much more common than fingernail fungus.
The risk of infection also increases with age. This is simply a matter of time–the longer someone has lived, the more years they’ve been exposed to the organisms which cause infection. It’s also commonly known that elderly patients often have weaker immune systems than other groups. States another Washington based podiatrist, Dr. Lee Firestone, over half of people over the age of seventy have nail fungus infections.
- Make sure to thoroughly wash your foot, especially the problem area, each day with soapy water. Take care to keep the foot dry and clean for the remainder of the day.
- Don’t wear ill fitting shoes. Shoes that are both too tight or too loose can further irritate a fungus toenail. High heel shoes are also off limits. If possible, consider wearing sandals until the problem returns to normal.
- Some home remedies are a bit more daring, and usually don’t provide notable relief. Never use an instrument like tweezers, trying to lift up the edge of the nail or dig out under it, it will innoculate the fungus deeper.
What Symptoms an Infected Toenail Fungus Shows?
• You may just notice a white or yellow patch under your nail at first. This spreads over time, turning your entire nail white, yellow, green, or black.
• It’s possible that the nail will swell and become difficult to cut.
• It may begin to curl up or down, or it may begin to separate from the nail bed.
• Your nail will become crumble and brittle. It may break easily when a little force is applied.
• They will turn misshapen as well
• If ignored for longer you may notice swelling, redness and odor from your nail.