Those responsible for this "fungal infection - or mycotic, if you prefer - are mainly:
- Dermatophytes (species belonging to the genera Trichophyton, Epidermophyton And Microsporum);
- Yeasts (Candida albicans).
- Molds (species belonging to the genera Acremonium, Scytalidium, Aspergillus And Fusarium);
Onychomycosis is one of the most common nail diseases in the world that occurs more frequently in males than in females. Less common in childhood, nail fungus affects adults and the elderly.
Depending on how the pathogenic fungus invades the nail, it is possible to distinguish different types of onychomycosis, each characterized by its own clinical picture and by a more or less specific symptomatology.
or a yeast) reaches the nail and is able to proliferate undisturbed.
The contagion and the spread of the infection can be favored by certain external factors and conditions, as well as by behaviors that are not properly correct. To cite a few examples, they represent factors favoring the contagion: contact with an infected surface (for example, the floor) the use of common changing rooms (as occurs, for example, in swimming pools and gyms); the use of tight and non-breathable shoes that favor the development of a warm-humid environment ideal for the proliferation of the fungi responsible for onychomycosis.
changes in a more or less evident way. More precisely, the nail can:- Change color;
- Thicken;
- Becoming more fragile;
- Flake or break easily.
To all this, there are additional symptoms typical of fungal infections, such as unpleasant smell and pain. In some cases it can even lead to the loss of the nail.
of the individual affected by onychomycosis who could therefore decide to avoid interpersonal relationships (including the closest ones) and limit the activities that were previously normally carried out; in other words, it could lead to the so-called social isolation.
Did you know that ...
According to some studies conducted on the changes in the quality of life in patients suffering from onychomycosis, it is the fungal infections of the nails of the hands that cause the greatest problems at a social and occupational level, probably because they are much more visible than those of the feet. , they can be hidden by socks and shoes. Also according to these studies, moreover, it would be women who experience greater discomfort in the field of interpersonal and social relationships when affected by onychomycosis.
antifungals that are applied directly on the infected nail, hinder the proliferation and kill the fungi responsible for onychomycosis. Of course, the duration of the treatment can be long as it is strictly connected to the growth rate of the nail affected by the mycosis (about 6 months for the nails of the hands and 9-12 months for those of the feet), but a timely intervention will allow a more rapid resolution of the problem, preventing it from worsening and leading to an improvement in symptoms.
In addition, there are drugs of this type on the market, following the application of which it is possible to proceed with the application of a cosmetic polish, in order to have beautiful and flawless nails right away.
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