disease
Definition, Causes and Symptoms of Nail Fungus
About 10 million Germans have nail fungus . Especially in the cold season you can easily get infected with nail fungus. All nail fungus types form spores. These microscopic seeds can survive for months in textiles (for example carpeting, socks), shoes and boots. Nail fungus spores can invade the skin on contact. For germination they need moisture and heat. Especially in winter, the conditions for nail fungus are ideal, especially in waterproof shoes or boots . Because they are hardly or not breathable. The skin moisture creates together with the body heat a microclimate, in which nail fungus develop well and can trigger a persistent nail fungus infection (medical: onychomycosis).
Signs: First, the nail affected with nail fungus loses its shine. Then it usually discolors from the front edge (most common infection site). Depending on the nail fungus type, the spots are white, yellowish, gray, greyish brown or black. The nail thickens, can later become brittle, detach from the nail bed. Because the body tries to kill the nail fungus by inflammation, it often comes to redness, swelling and itching on the toe, about half of those affected feel pain. If the nail fungus inflammation is open, bacteria (streptococci) can aggravate it.
Treatment of nail fungus
Nail fungus must be treated immediately. The best way to go to the dermatologist. He may prescribe various remedies for the treatment of nail fungus. Frequently, the mushroom sites have to be dissolved with a special ointment (for example with urea). Or they are filed off. Then a special varnish with a fungicidal substance (antimycotic) can work better. In severe nail fungus infestation (for example, three toenails or more), a so-called systemic therapy may be necessary: It takes in addition tablets with an antimycotic. The treatment usually takes three to six months. To help you can dab infected nails in the morning and in the evening with vinegar (not on the skin).
Prevention and self-help of nail fungus
In order to prevent nail fungus, bath slippers and bathrobes should be worn in bathrooms and saunas, and slippers in hotel rooms. Always thoroughly dry toes and toe gaps and wear breathable winter shoes that should not be too tight. Wool socks absorb a lot of moisture and should be changed daily. It's also helpful to keep your feet dry with foot powder. In normal nail care, it is important to avoid skin injuries, as they can penetrate nail fungus spores easily. Since you can get nail fungus infections over the stockings again and again, you should wash socks with antifungal detergent (there are drugstores and pharmacies, for example, for 30 degrees), as this kills the toenail fungus spores.
