Toenail fungus is one of the most common fungal infections of the human beings. It can colonize one or more toenails, causing an infection.
There are several fungal species that will grow on or in the toenail, including the same species which cause fungal infections elsewhere on the body.
The fungal infection of the toenail is known as Onychomycosis. It is a chronic condition and it can be extremely difficult to treat. Normally, weeks or months are required to clear up even with extremely aggressive medication. People are prone to toenail fungus in a variety of places including moist/warm environments, locker rooms, gymnasiums, and public pools. They can also develop onychomycosis as a result of wearing shoes which do not allow the feet to breathe.
Also, walking barefoot may lead to toenail fungal infection. Sharing shoes with others who have fungal infections can also cause the infection to spread. Once the nail is infected by fungus, the nail gets thickens and will turn into white, yellow, or grayish. A sharp ridge in the nail and the nail becomes brittle or crumbly are the other textural changes that can be commonly seen. Sometimes onychomycosis can cause the loss of a toenail, which can be very painful. If it is not treated properly, it may affect the residual fungus.
As a step to treat the toenail fungal infection, antifungal medications can be applied directly to the toenail. Also, avoid using old closed toed shoes and socks. Using open toed shoes which allow plenty of light and air to circulate around the toenail is recommended.
By wearing shoes in public places like spas, swimming pools, locker rooms and public showers, people can avoid the risk of picking up toenail fungus. The best shoes to wear are those that allow plenty of air and moisture exchange. Also, make sure that their shoes fit properly.
It is perfectly safe to wear closed toed shoes. It is a good idea to always use fresh socks, and to change socks when they get dirty or moist. Using 100% wool, cotton, or silk socks are the best to wear as they absorb moisture from your feet (from sweating) and provide good ventilation. Keeping the feet clean and dry will also help reduce the risk of developing a fungal infection.
Public Health Forums offers great information on Toenail Fungus. Know about Onychomycosis Treatment, Laser Treatment Fungus etc online from our website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_J_Pearson
The Foot and Associated Problems of Pain and Discomfort
Overview
•About 75% of people in the United States have foot pain at some time in their lives.
•Most foot pain is caused by shoes that do not fit properly or that force the feet into unnatural shapes (such as pointed-toe, high-heeled shoes).
•Foot pain generally starts in one of three places: the toes, the forefoot, or the hindfoot.
•Nearly all causes of foot pain can be grouped under one of the following:
•Ill-fitting shoes
•Certain medical conditions
•High-impact exercise
Treatment
•The acronym RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation -- the four basic elements of immediate treatment for an injured foot.
•Orthonyxia, a newer surgical technique that implants a small metal brace into the top of the nail, may be as effective as traditional surgical techniques for preventing ingrown toenails from recurring.
•The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) suggests shoe inserts, medications, and stretching as a first line of therapy for heel pain.
Prevention
The American Podiatric Medical Association offers the following tips for preventing foot pain:
•Don't ignore foot pain -- it's not normal.
•Inspect feet regularly.
•Wash feet regularly, especially between the toes, and dry them completely.
•Trim toenails straight across, but not too short.
•Make sure shoes fit properly.
•Wear the right shoe for specific activities (such as running shoes for running).
•Don't wear the same pair of shoes every day.
•Avoid walking barefoot, which increases the risk for injury and infection.
•It is critical that people with diabetes see a podiatric physician at least once a year for a checkup.
In future postings I will offer a discussion of specific foot ailments.
•About 75% of people in the United States have foot pain at some time in their lives.
•Most foot pain is caused by shoes that do not fit properly or that force the feet into unnatural shapes (such as pointed-toe, high-heeled shoes).
•Foot pain generally starts in one of three places: the toes, the forefoot, or the hindfoot.
•Nearly all causes of foot pain can be grouped under one of the following:
•Ill-fitting shoes
•Certain medical conditions
•High-impact exercise
Treatment
•The acronym RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation -- the four basic elements of immediate treatment for an injured foot.
•Orthonyxia, a newer surgical technique that implants a small metal brace into the top of the nail, may be as effective as traditional surgical techniques for preventing ingrown toenails from recurring.
•The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) suggests shoe inserts, medications, and stretching as a first line of therapy for heel pain.
Prevention
The American Podiatric Medical Association offers the following tips for preventing foot pain:
•Don't ignore foot pain -- it's not normal.
•Inspect feet regularly.
•Wash feet regularly, especially between the toes, and dry them completely.
•Trim toenails straight across, but not too short.
•Make sure shoes fit properly.
•Wear the right shoe for specific activities (such as running shoes for running).
•Don't wear the same pair of shoes every day.
•Avoid walking barefoot, which increases the risk for injury and infection.
•It is critical that people with diabetes see a podiatric physician at least once a year for a checkup.
In future postings I will offer a discussion of specific foot ailments.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
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