It’s not hard to see why fungal nail infections are more than just a minor nuisance. After all, not only are they aesthetically unpleasant. But if left unchecked and untreated, they can cause more than just a little embarrassment and shame. But fortunately, not all is doom and gloom. And in spite of the nail discolouration that is generally associated with these types of infections, they are neither severe nor uncommon conditions. In actuality, the vast majority of us have, at one point in our lives, had to deal with this problem. And in this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about nail fungal infections, from effective treatments to preventative tips.
What are fungal nail infections?
As its name suggests, these types of infections are usually found either in the toenails or fingernails. The telltale signs that they are typically associated with are the yellowish discolouration of the affected areas as well as the fragility of the infected nail. And while these types of infections aren’t usually painful, they can start hurting if left untreated.
How can I treat a fungal nail infection?
Because of how common they are, there are a variety of different ways in which you can treat fungal nail infections. From over-the-counter orally-ingested medication and topically applied fungal nail infection cream to natural remedies like garlic and vinegar, you’ll be hard-pressed not to find a treatment that doesn’t work for you.
But keep in mind that it’s always best to seek advice and consultation from medical professionals like dermatologists first before pursuing any treatments. Doing so will not only help you overcome this problem a lot quicker but do so with minimal trouble too.
Are there ways to speed up the recovery process?
Apart from following and completing the treatment prescribed by your dermatologist, you can speed up the recovery process by creating an environment that will impede and obstruct the growth of fungus. From bathing regularly and staying dry to ensuring that your clothing is always clean, making sure that you always have good hygiene can make all the difference in getting rid of the undesirable infection quicker.
What preventative tips can you suggest?
When it comes to nail fungal infections, your best and the only defence is cleanliness. So always make sure that you shower daily, especially after working out or sweating from your regular exercise routine. Try to stay dry too and avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing, as fungus tends to fester in environments that are as humid as they are unsanitary. Also, make sure that any family members that are currently living with you are also treated, as fungal infections can spread rather easily.
Contrary to what some might believe, nail fungal infections aren’t serious conditions. In actuality, they’re as easy to treat as they are to avoid entirely. And by making sure that you always stay clean, not only will you minimise the chances of getting a fungal nail infection but you’ll also be able to treat it faster too in the event that it rears its ugly head.
