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Fungus Nail

Introduction to Fungus Nail

Fungus nails is a unsightly condition which can be difficult to treat. Many patients become very conscious about a fungus nail condition and refuse to wear sandals and have their feet seen in public. It is caused by microscopic organisms called Dermatophytes. Dermatophytes grow in the nail bed, beneath the nail and live off keratin, the protein in the nail. The condition usually begins towards the far end of the nail and may start with patches of white or yellow discolouration. If the condition is left untreated, it will proceed to the base of the nail. It will attack the nail root (matrix) and cause the nail to grow very thick and deformed. The big toe is usually the first nail to be affected with the condition spreading to adjacent nails. In rare cases this condition can also affect the skin surrounding the nails.

Symptoms of Fungus Nails

The nail may become brittle and split into several pieces.
The actual condition is not painful. However, if the nail becomes thick and deformed it may grow into the skin at an angle and become an in growing toenail.
In severe cases, inflammation may arise from an in growing toenail which may result in a secondary infection.
It will affect a patients day to day activities, as the pressure from the nail against the shoe can cause discomfort.
If the condition is left untreated for along period of time, the nail will become very brittle and the patient may experience episodes of total removal of the nail followed by re-growth.

Appearance of Fungus Nails

At an early stage, the nail may have white or yellow patches of discolouration. There may also be yellow horizontal streaks in the nail.
At a later stage, the nail will grow thick, deformed, discoloured and have a foul odour (musty smell). It may also split and start to crumble

Fungus Nails

Causes of Fungus Nails

There are many types of fungus present in our environment. Most are harmless, however, a group of fungi called dermatophytes can affect the feet. Dermatophytes thrive on warm, moist conditions.
Sweaty shoes and moist socks can be a contributing factor.
Most people may have the fungus present on their feet. However, a nail fungus infection may be caused due to the fungus invading the skin. This can be due to injury to the nail, inflammation from an in growing toenail or inappropriate nail cutting.
Individuals with a lower immunity due to Diabetes, H.I.V and patients with poor circulation.

Treatment for Fungus Nails

The tried and trusted ingredient clotrimazole treats fungal nail infections. Repeated application allows penetration of the nail plate, eradication of the fungus and healthy growth of the nail. Click here to view this product.
To prevent the condition occurring, anti-fungal powders may be of benefit.
Avoid synthetic nylon socks that trap in sweat, use cotton socks that absorb perspiration.
Curanail contains the active ingredient amorolfine, an effective anti-fungal agent previously only available on prescription. Curanail kills a wide range of different fungi that can cause nail infections.
The chiropodist may advise systemic medications or a nail lacquer which may effectively treat the condition, such as Protective Gehwol Nail and Skin Oil.
The nail may be trimmed with nail cutters or using a special nail grinder.
If a secondary in growing toenail is present then surgical removal of the nail may be necessary.
With treatment the condition may be resolved within 9-12 months.
Fungus nail surgery to remove the toenail is also an option.

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Review: Fungus nails can be an embarrassing and hard to treat

This product contains high-quality conditioning ingredients wheat germ oil, panthenol and bisabolol to care for the nails and cuticles. The tried and trusted ingredient clotrimazole treats fungal nail infections. Repeated application allows penetration of the nail plate, eradication of the fungus and healthy growth of the nail.

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Customer Review

"About a year ago I developed a fungal nail infection. I tried fungus nail treatment. My doctor prescribed some tablets which I took for about three days. That was enough! They made me feel so ill I just had to look for an alternative. Dr Foot came to my rescue. I used it for about three months when it suddenly struck me that it might help me with my big toenails. They had been discoloured for years but were gradually worsening. Both nails were completely discoloured. The fungal nail healed in less than six months and after nine months of using Gehwol Nail and Skin Oil, the big toes are nearly back to where they were before.

No side effects just beautiful looking nails. Roll on summer and open toed shoes!!"

Mrs Crompton, UK