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Contents
  • What Causes Onychomycosis?
  • Who Should Be Treated?
  • Treatment Options

Onychomycosis: What You Need to Know About This Common Nail Infection

Onychomycosis: What You Need to Know About This Common Nail Infection

What's This About?

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that targets your nails, causing them to look unsightly and sometimes painful. Understanding its causes and treatments can help keep your nails healthy.
Contents
  • What Causes Onychomycosis?
  • Who Should Be Treated?
  • Treatment Options

What Causes Onychomycosis?

The primary culprits of onychomycosis are dermatophytes, with Trichophyton rubrum being the most common. Yeasts like Candida albicans and nondermatophyte molds can also be responsible. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, making feet a common target, especially if you frequent damp areas like pools or locker rooms.

Who Should Be Treated?

Not everyone with onychomycosis needs treatment, but certain groups should consider it. If you have diabetes, repeated cellulitis, or are immunocompromised, treatment is advised to prevent serious complications. Additionally, those experiencing pain or discomfort, or who are concerned with nail appearance, may benefit from treatment.
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection affecting the nails, commonly caused by dermatophytes like Trichophyton rubrum. It can lead to unsightly and sometimes painful nail conditions, particularly for those with diabetes or compromised immune systems.

Treatment Options

Treatment varies based on severity and type of fungus. Mild cases might only need topical antifungals, while severe cases often require oral medications like terbinafine. Other options include laser therapy and surgery, though these are less common. It's essential to complete the full treatment course to prevent recurrence.

FAQs

What is onychomycosis?

It's a fungal infection of the nails often causing discoloration and thickening.

Who should get treated?

Those with diabetes, repeated cellulitis, or immune issues should seek treatment.

Can it be serious?

Yes, especially for people with weakened immune systems; it can lead to further infections.

Is recurrence common?

Yes, onychomycosis often recurs, making full treatment critical.

Key Takeaways

Understanding onychomycosis and its treatment can prevent recurrence and complications.
Talk to Doctronic about safeguarding your nails from onychomycosis today!
Additional References
  1. Roujeau JC, et al. Dermatology 2004; 209:301.
  2. Mikailov A, et al. JAMA Dermatol 2016; 152:276.
  3. Elewski BE, et al. J Am Acad Dermatol 2013; 68:600.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.