Fungal Nail Infections
Onychomycosis
Characteristics
Ringworm of the nails feed on keratin which is the main protein in nails, hair, and outer later of the skin. It is caused by a specific fungus called Dermatophyte. Dermatophyte also causes athlete's foot and jock itch. Dermatophyte is caused by an untreated fungal infection from the foot that can spread to the nails or it can occur directly int he nail. It can range in size from 6-160 by 6-25 μm.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a fungal nail infection are a whitish thickening of the nail and nail bad, loss of color, and the nail may become destroyed. This ringworm can last until you get it treated. Patients report no pain or discomfort in the beginning but as it progresses, patients begin to feel pain, discomfort, and problems standing and walking.
History
Onychomycosis originated in West Africa, Southeast Asia, Indonesia, and Northern Australia. It was spread through Europe, South America, and North America in the late 19th Century and early 20th centuries.
Treatment
Fungal nail infections can be prevented by washing and drying hands and feet daily, using cotton or wool socks, changing socks at least twice a day or when the socks become damp, avoid artificially made footwear, and wear breathable material footwear.
Fungal nail infections can be treated with antifungal tablets and fungicides. Treatment could last anymore from 4 weeks to many months.