Athlete's Nails

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the nails caused by dermatophytes (fungi of the genus Trichophyton). This disease is also called epidermophyte onychomycosis.

Causes

The causative agents of epidermophytosis of the nails are dermatophytes - fungi that attack keratin tissue (hair, nails). The most common pathogens are Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Infection occurs from a sick person or animal through direct contact, as well as through household items.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of athlete's foot:

1. change in the color and structure of the nail plate (thickening, peeling, crumbling surface)

2. the nail plate turns yellow, becomes cloudy, and becomes deformed

3. splitting of the nail from the nail bed

4. the nail loses its shine and becomes rough

Diagnosis is carried out using microscopy of a scraping from under the nail, cultured on a medium to isolate the fungus.

Treatment

Treatment for athlete's foot nails includes:

1. taking antifungal drugs by mouth

2. local application of varnishes and solutions

3. in some cases, surgical removal of the affected nails.

Treatment is long-term, from 6 months to 1 year. Preventive measures are important - maintaining personal hygiene rules, disinfecting shoes and household items. When the first signs of the disease appear, you should consult a doctor.

Athlete's nails: symptoms, causes and treatment

Athlete's foot, also known as Athlete's foot or Athlete's foot onychomycosis, is a common fungal disease that affects the fingernails and toenails. This condition causes discomfort, changes in the appearance of the nails and can lead to serious complications if you do not see a doctor and start treatment.

Symptoms of athlete's foot can vary, but usually include the following:

1. Changes in the appearance of nails: Affected nails may become dull, yellowish, or white. They may become brittle, thin, or flaking. In some cases, nails may peel off from the nail plate.

2. Thickening of the nails: A fungal infection can cause the nails to thicken, making them more brittle and less flexible.

3. Separation of the nail from the nail bed: As the infection progresses, the nail may peel off from the nail bed, causing pain and deteriorating appearance.

4. Itching and irritation: Affected nails may cause itching and irritation of the skin around them.

The cause of epidermophytosis of the nails is fungi of the genus Trichophyton and Microsporum, which penetrate the nails through microtraumas or damage to the surface of the nails. Fungal nail infections most often occur in conditions that encourage fungal growth, such as high humidity, warmth, and poor hygiene.

Treatment for athlete's foot usually involves a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. Your doctor may recommend the use of antifungal medications in the form of ointments, creams, solutions, or tablets for internal use. It is important to use the medications regularly and for the recommended period of time to completely eradicate the fungal infection.

In addition to drug treatment, the following recommendations may be helpful:

1. Practice good nail hygiene by washing and drying your nails regularly, avoiding tight shoes, and using personal hygiene products (such as nail files) to prevent the spread of infection.

2. Avoid wearing synthetic socks and shoes: Synthetic material can restrict air circulation and trap moisture, which encourages fungal growth.

3. Maintain dry and cool conditions: Dry your nails thoroughly after washing and use anti-fungal powders or sprays on shoes and nails to reduce moisture and prevent fungal growth.

4. Follow your doctor's instructions: When treating athlete's foot, it is very important to follow your doctor's instructions and complete the full course of treatment, even if the symptoms have disappeared. This will help prevent relapses and completely cure the infection.

If you notice symptoms of athlete's foot, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist or mycologist who specializes in fungal infections. He will conduct an examination, possibly take a sample of the nail tissue for laboratory analysis and prescribe the appropriate treatment depending on the extent of the damage.

In general, athlete's foot is a common fungal disease that requires timely diagnosis and treatment. Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding damp conditions and using antifungal medications correctly will help control this condition and restore healthy nails.