Onychomycosis is a nail disease caused by dermatophyte fungi and, in a minority of cases, by molds and yeasts. The "infection is" established following the penetration of these microscopic pathogens, capable of settling in the tissues rich in keratin, in the space between the lamina and the nail bed (ie the part on which the nail rests). As a result , the nail affected by onychomycosis becomes dull, thickened and prone to flaking or breaking.
In addition to being an unpleasant aesthetic problem, onychomycosis also causes discomfort or pain and, over time, can induce permanent damage to the nail. The infection is not always limited to a single nail, as the fungi can also invade the other nails. For this series of reasons, onychomycosis is a disorder that should not be underestimated and from the first symptoms it would be advisable to contact your own doctor or ask your pharmacist for advice.
, rather than on those of the hands. The feet are, in fact, the ideal habitat for the proliferation of fungi: inside the shoes a warm-humid environment is formed, thanks to sweating. Even the use of poorly breathable socks and poor foot hygiene can facilitate the onset of onychomycosis, as well as contact with an infected floor or surface and the attendance of public changing rooms and showers in gyms, campsites and spas.
Onychomycosis is more likely to occur in the presence of previous nail trauma, excessive sweating and depression of the immune system. Athlete's foot, psoriasis and conditions that compromise peripheral circulation, and diabetes are also predisposing factors.
