Not everyone knows what toenail fungus looks like.In this regard, not all patients understand when to consult a doctor.If you notice signs of nail fungus, you should also determine at what stage the disease is, and then immediately contact a specialist.
Symptoms of the disease
The first symptoms of fungus on the feet or hands are usually not noticeable.It is most often a small lesion of the nail.The side edges of the plaque, as well as the free edge, begin to acquire a yellowish color.The presence of the disease can also be recognized by the lack of transparency of the nail at the base.
Sometimes you may see a gap between the backrest and the bed itself.The reasons for its formation are the accumulation of fungal pathogens, as well as a number of other microbes.These types of lesions are called distal-lateral fungal form.
In addition, hand or foot fungus is complemented by hyperkeratosis located under the nails.This name implies the phenomenon where the nail begins to react to the presence of a fungus by keratinizing the bed itself.The deeper the fungus penetrates into the plaque, the thicker the fingernails or toenails become.
The final stage of this form is the defeat of the entire nail.Also, the matrix begins to be involved in the process - this is the place where the nail begins to grow.Lamellar dystrophy occurs.
Additionally, the symptoms of the fungus intensify.Damage to the nail begins with small white spots.Over time, the types of these spots become more diverse and extensive.Additionally, these symptoms can be recognized by the loose and rough nail plate.It is easily exposed by scraping.However, this shape is not found on the hands.This is relevant for the first toe.
Symptoms of the next form of infection - proximal subungual - are lesions of the pad, which turn red.After that, the tissues around the fingernails and toenails begin to swell and shine, after which their shape changes.The result will be the separation of the cuticle from the plaque.
Any person is afraid of discovering a fungus in themselves, because it is dangerous, because the next stage is degenerative changes in the nail plate.The first symptoms of this form are irregularities.They are easy to recognize;they look like uneven grooves all over the nail.If the disease is completely neglected, you risk losing a fingernail or toenail altogether.
The most dangerous fungus appears in its total dystrophic form.It is the most advanced disease.The nail (if retained) appears gray in color and thickens.The main symptom is the total or partial destruction of the plaque.
We fight against the scourge
Before you start treating fungus on your hands and feet, you should minimize the negative influence from the outside.It is advisable to find out the reasons why hand or foot fungus appeared and eliminate them.Most often, there are four reasons:
- Frequent exposure to hot and humid environments.The fact is that it is necessary to dry shoes, especially in the demi-season, when they are constantly wet.Tights and socks should be chosen only from natural materials that will not create problems with heat and air exchange.
- The causes of fungal infections of the hands and feet often lie in poor immunity.Just walking barefoot on the ground will cause the infection to stick to you.
- Frequent nail extensions are also among the most common causes of onychomycosis.It is advisable to repeat the procedure no more than once every six months.
- Any analysis will show that the most contagious fungus is one with active spores.They can enter the hollows between fingers and toes, lie dormant, and then begin to grow strongly.This type of mushroom is found in public places.
Even if you notice the first symptoms of fungus described above, you should not start self-medication.You must contact a specialist who will carry out an analysis.Most often, a scratch test is performed to check for fungus on fingernails and toenails.This analysis is carried out in an alkaline environment, where the presence of mycelium is checked under a microscope.
Only once the test is positive can treatment begin.The fact is that the first signs of fungus on the hands and feet may not be fungus at all and may have completely different causes.For example, problems with internal organs are also negatively reflected on the nail plates.A more in-depth analysis will then be necessary, most often including a biochemical blood test.
To determine the causes of the fungus, doctors recommend analyzing the etiology of the microorganism.This analysis is carried out within three weeks, during which the corresponding culture is grown.Although there are now modern techniques to analyze the DNA of the fungus to determine the cause of its formation.
Common species
Among all hand and foot fungus, there are three most popular types.The first of these is epidermophytosis.We are talking about a fungal disease that affects not only the fingernails and toenails, but also the skin around them.Most often you can find this type of mushroom in the bathhouse or in the gym.
How is nail fungus transmitted, you ask?Everything is quite prosaic.These include general hygiene products, household linen, oilcloths, carpets and other sports equipment and even thermometers.Most often, this type of fungus appears on the legs of men.It appears less frequently on the hands due to the absence of excessive sweating.
Trichophytosis of the feet is also very common.This is because the disease is very contagious.It is also transmitted through objects used by a sick person, particularly sports equipment.It is extremely rare for children to be affected by these types of fungi.
Most often, young men are at risk, but the percentage is even higher among the adult population.This disease can often be found in miners or hot shop workers.In Europe, this disease is often given the “title” of “athlete’s foot”.This type of fungus does not appear on the hands.
The third most common variant is candidiasis.It is also found on the feet;it generally does not reach the hands.Most of this type of fungi are conditionally pathogenic and therefore are present in every person without causing disease.However, with reduced immunity, their pathogenicity can be observed.In addition, they can enter the body through unwashed hands after sharing objects, as well as through fermented milk products.
Generally speaking, these are the main types of mushrooms to be wary of in public places.Most often, protecting yourself from illness is quite simple.Use only your personal items.Remember to wear slippers in the showers or swimming pool, and always consult a specialist if you suspect fungus.Do not try to self-medicate or self-diagnose.Even an experienced doctor needs a lab test to be completely sure.