SHARES
Onychomycosis or nail fungus is observed as discolouration, thickening, or separation of the nail bed of fingernails or toenails. It affects approximately 10% of the population, especially the older folks. The nails may be affected by opaque white or yellow streaks, flaky white patches or pits, or yellow spots. Some people may have nails that can be lifted off the nail bed, nail edges that are damaged, or localised thickening at the infected area of the nail. These symptoms should prompt one to consult a doctor.
Treatment aims to eradicate fungus for good. However, it can be difficult to treat because of the protective nature of nails which can shelter the infection from the topical treatments. If left unattended, fungal infection of the nail can progress and may destroy the nailbed, causing permanent and irreversible damage and deformity.
Potential causes of nail fungus
Often, a fungal infection of the fingernail is a family affair that may affect more than just a single person in a household. Sharing a similar moist environment and personal items (such as towels) may contribute to this.
Activities that keep hands in a continually warm, moisture-rich environment may also increase the risk of nail fungus infections. Constant use of rubber gloves or continually submerging hands in water is an example of an unavoidable situation that may lead nail fungus. Using an antifungal powder inside gloves and keeping hands as clean and dry may be helpful to prevent nail fungus.
Some people may also have health conditions that predisposes them to nail fungus, such as age 65 and above, diabetes, compromised immune system, or problems with blood circulation.
In addition, other lifestyle factors may include wearing artificial nails or using unsterilised manicure tools. Practicing excellent hand hygiene and keeping nails trimmed may help to prevent infection.
Habits to minimise nail fungal infections
Diet
Food with more protein, iron, essential fatty acids, as well as calcium, and vitamins may keep our body strong and healthy. Additionally, adding probiotic-rich foods such as yoghurt into the diet may contribute to a healthy immune system.
Hygiene of manicure tools
Keep fingernails trimmed and smooth with disinfected manicure tools. It is important to wash hands regularly, especially after touching a nail infection. It may be necessary to cut down on acrylic nails and nail polish. When visiting the manicurist, ensure all tools are well sanitised.
Protect your hands with personal protective equipment
As one potential factor of infection susceptibility is at the site of an injury, it is important to protect the hands. When possible, wear gloves when working with tools or any situation that may be damaging to hands and fingernails.
Treatment of nail fungus At CHARMS
At CHARMS, a doctor specialising in treating hand will assess the severity of the fungal nail infection and address the condition appropriately with non-surgical or surgical treatment. Non-surgical treatment involves prescription medications, both topical and oral. Surgical treatment involves removal of part or the entire infected nail, excision of the fungal deposits on the nailbed with nailbed reconstruction, if necessary, in extreme cases.
Special thanks to:
Dr Aaron Gan Wei Tat is a Consultant Hand Surgeon heading the Centre for Hands and Reconstructive Microsurgery (CHARMS) of the Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre branch. Before joining CHARMS, he was appointed as Consultant in the Department of Hand & Reconstructive Microsurgery of the National University Hospital.
Dr Gan specializes in hand and wrist sports injuries as well as degenerative hand and wrist conditions. National athletes, professional MMA fighters and other levels of sportspersons count amongst Dr Gan’s patients who have undergone treatment and rehabilitation leading to quick recovery back to sports.
Dr Gan has wide experience in treating painful conditions in the hand and wrist with both non-surgical and surgical methods. Tendinosis and arthritis in the hand and wrist are the most common conditions in this group of patients.
Credit: Saher Binte Haider
The Centre for Hands and Reconstructive Microsurgery (CHARMS) contributed this article. Read the original article here.
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by Joanne Lee
Multipotentialite. Loves creating and seeing ideas come alive. View all articles by Joanne Lee.
