Causes And Symptoms Of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause unsightly changes to the appearance of the nails, including thickening, yellowing, and crumbling. While it’s not typically painful, it can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Fortunately, there are many toenail fungus treatment Canada available at top medical centers. But first, it’s important to understand what causes toenail fungus and how to recognize its symptoms.
Causes:
Toenail fungus is caused by microscopic organisms called dermatophytes, which thrive in warm, damp environments. These organisms can enter the nail through tiny cuts or separations between the nail and nail bed. Once inside, they feed on keratin, the protein found in nails, leading to infection and discoloration. Common risk factors for developing toenail fungus include having sweaty feet, wearing tight shoes, walking barefoot in public areas (such as pool decks or locker rooms), and having a weakened immune system.
Symptoms:
The most obvious symptom of toenail fungus is changes to the appearance of the nail. The affected nail may become thickened, brittle, and ragged, and may develop yellow or brown spots. As the infection progresses, the entire nail may turn white, black, or greenish-yellow. There may also be a foul odor coming from the infected nail. In severe cases, the nail may separate completely from the nail bed.
Diagnosis:
While the symptoms of toenail fungus are often easy to spot, it’s important to get a definitive diagnosis from a healthcare professional. A doctor or podiatrist can perform a physical exam and may send a sample of the affected nail to a lab for testing. This will confirm whether the issue is actually due to a fungal infection or another underlying condition.
Treatment:
There are several treatment options available for toenail fungus, both prescription and over-the-counter. Prescription medications, such as oral antifungals, work by killing the fungi responsible for the infection. Over-the-counter topical treatments, such as creams, gels, and polishes, can also be effective in treating mild to moderate cases of toenail fungus. For more advanced cases, doctors may recommend laser therapy or surgical removal of the affected nail.
In Canada, there are many clinics that offer specialized toenail fungus treatment. These clinics use state-of-the-art technology and proven techniques to effectively treat even the most stubborn cases of toenail fungus. Some popular treatment methods used in Canadian clinics include photodynamic therapy, which uses light energy to kill the fungus; and cryotherapy, which involves freezing the affected tissue to destroy the fungi.