Fungus on the feet is a common dermatological pathology that is diagnosed in almost every fifth person. Mycosis of the feet (onychomycosis) is caused by damage to the nails or feet by a fungus - red trichophyton. Molds and candida often join colonies of trichophyton. Causes of the disease can be scratches, wounds, cuts and corns on the feet, improper hygienic foot care, taking antibiotics and other medications, excessive sweating of the feet, weak immunity and other factors.
Externally, nail fungus manifests as discoloration and thickening of the nails, which can lead to their destruction or crumbling. The fungi are located between the base and the nail plate, which gives the nail a white, gray, yellow, brown, sometimes green or black hue.
The tactics and treatment regimen of nail fungus are determined by the physician individually, taking into account the localization, distribution and severity of mycotic lesions, the duration of the disease and the presence of concomitant diseases.
As a result of the growth and reproduction of pathogenic fungi, toxic substances accumulate in the human body. They are carried by the bloodstream, which causes a deterioration of metabolic processes and an increase in the body's sensitivity to the influence of external factors. Prolonged course of onychomycosis can cause the development of allergic reactions, exacerbation of chronic pathologies and weaken the immune system.
To avoid serious complications, when the first symptoms of fungus on the feet are detected, consult a doctor who will prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Methods of treating nail fungus
To prescribe an effective therapeutic regimen, it is important to determine the cause of mycosis and the type of fungus. To do this, the doctor collects clinical data during the consultation, prescribes a cultural and microscopic examination of the sawdust from the affected nail. In some cases, analysis of nail particles and PCR diagnostics are prescribed.
On average, treatment of athlete's foot lasts 3-6 months. Considering the nature and spread of mycotic lesions, the severity of clinical manifestations, and the type of pathogen, foot fungal therapy may include hardware treatment of the foot, taking systemic medications, use of topical medications, and adherence to a number of preventative measures.
Laser treatment of fungus on the feet
Previously, the treatment of onychomycosis was carried out by radical methods: the affected nail was removed by an operative method, after which a long period of rehabilitation began. Thanks to the development of modern technologies, today laser nail treatment is used to treat mycotic lesions. With the help of laser beams, the doctor can only remove the affected areas of the nail without damaging healthy tissue. Compared to surgical removal, laser therapy for foot fungus is characterized by minimal postoperative complications and a short recovery period.
Removal of the nail plate by the hardware method is prescribed when more than 40% of the surface is affected. The number of laser therapies is determined by the doctor individually.
After exposure to the laser, the nail plate, as it grows, should be treated with special local preparations. Immunomodulators and antibacterial agents may also be prescribed.
Preparations and drugs for the treatment of fungus on the feet
Therapy of the initial stages of mycosis, when less than 40% of the nail plate is affected, is carried out with external drugs (solutions, varnishes, ointments, gels, creams). To achieve the desired results, it is important to adhere to the prescribed regimen and dose of the drug.
The choice of external means for the treatment of mycosis of the feet is carried out taking into account the localization of fungal lesions and skin type. Dry skin is treated with preparations with a high fat content. Grease is prescribed for the soles, and suspensions for the toes between the toes. Also, mycosis of the feet is treated with varnishes and special creams. In order for the medication to better penetrate the nail, the affected nail plate is removed (as indicated).
After 2 weeks of treatment, the external drug must be changed to another, because during this period the fungal infection has become resistant to the drug used. For nail growth, the doctor prescribes special medications that should be used to treat the affected area for about a year. If the interdigital spaces or feet are damaged by mycosis, the ointments are used for a month.
To achieve successful results, topical therapy is combined with systemic therapy. In this case, the patient is prescribed antifungal and immunostimulatory drugs. The effectiveness of taking systemic medications will depend on adherence to the rules of the prescribed treatment regimen. The choice of drug and its dose is determined by the doctor individually.
Topical drug therapy is prescribed in case of restriction of systemic drug intake and in the early stages of mycotic lesions.
Prevention and recommendations after complex treatment of fungus on the feet
If the scheme of therapeutic action is chosen correctly, the mycosis does not return. Since the later development of the disease is due to re-infection, the most effective way to treat fungus on the feet is to prevent it.
In order to avoid re-infection with the fungus and achieve maximum results of therapy, it is necessary to adhere to the following recommendations:
- Treat all places where the fungus could remain with antibacterial drugs;
- Disinfect the bottom and walls of the tub with special means;
- Change house slippers and put on sneakers, shoes, boots and other footwear with ultraviolet rays or a special agent;
- Wash and iron bed linen, towels, leggings and socks thoroughly;
- Disinfection of manicure accessories;
- Use personal hygiene products in public places (fitness room, swimming pool);
- Monitor the condition of your feet regularly.
Self-treatment of onychomycosis can cause unwanted complications, so if you find the first signs of fungus on your nails, consult a competent specialist.