Have you ever tried to verify if you have toenail fungal infection but are not sure how? In this article we will learn how it happens and get into the symptoms of nail fungal infections. Fungal infections of the toenails are mainly caused by the growth of dermatophytes which the common type of fungi found in the Western countries weather. Candida and other non-dermatophytes are also known to infect the nails. However these fungi are more common in the tropical and subtropical countries where the temperature and humidity is high.
There are a few symptoms of nail fungal infection that are easily recognizable if you know to detect them. The first indication you may see is a tiny white or yellow spot on the nails. This spot may not be easily noticed due to its small size. Having such small spots on the nails is a good indication that your nails are “under attack” and tonail fungi have started to grow. Since it doesn’t cauese any pain, these spots may be overlooked.
After some time the little white or yellow spot will bit by bit grow bigger. As a result, the rest of the nails become very dull and you may notice the formation of a dark yellowish center around the edges of your nails. The thickened and yellow appearance is a typical symptom of fungal infection of the nails. In addition, the toenails may suffer flaking as the nails become rough and brittle. In serious cases, the nails may peel off and can separate from the nail bed.
The best way to verify if your tonails are infected by fungi is to consult the doctor. Since phsical observation is the key to detecting toenail fungal infections, the doctor will in most cases carry out a physical diagnosis. In order to find out the truth, the doctor may ask several questions such as whether you have been to a public swiming pool or a spa recently due to the fact that toenail fungal infections usually occurs in such places. If it is determined that the nails are indeed infected, the doctor make a culture of the infected nails to identify the type of fungus. The determination of the species of fungus is necessary so that the doctor is able to prescribe the best medications for you.
As discussed earlier in another article, different medications treat different types of fungal infections. Even though taking prescription medications recommended by the doctor can be effective in geting rid of toenail fungal infection, it may not be the best solution for everyone due to the risks of possible side-effects of such medicines. In fact, there are other safer and more effective treatments for toenail fungus such as the Zetaclear and XXX.
