Wednesday, August 28, 2013

BRITTLE, DISCOLORED NAILS?

Have you noticed over time you toenails becoming thickened or changing colors?
Onychomycosis, or fungal nails is a fungal infection which can affect the condition of your nails.  In normal, healthy people, fungal nails are most commonly caused by fungus that is caught from moist, wet areas. Communal showers, such as those at a gym, or swimming pools are common sources. You are also at a higher risk if you get pedicures with equipment that has not been properly disinfected after use on another person. Some symptoms that you may have fungal nails are: brittle, crumbly nails; debris trapped under the nail; lifting of the nail; thickening or color changes in the nail.

There are many treatment options for fungal nails, ranging from topical drops and lacquers to oral antifungal medication. You need to be evaluated by a physician to have the definitive diagnosis of nail fungus. A physician can take samples of the nail and send it off to a lab to determine if the nail is infected or not. A physician can also prescribe the proper medication to best treat the fungus. Call FAMILY FOOT CARE at 704-786-4482 to schedule an appointment today.  We can evaluate your nails and recommend the best course of treatment for you. We are located at 1022 Lee-Ann Drive Concord and 6602 Roberta Road Harrisburg.

Hint: Do not walk barefoot on communal surfaces.