Nail Fungus Disease

BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Infectious inflammation of the folds of skin surrounding the fingernail or toenail can be caused by a fungus. This condition is also called paronychia. It may be acute (of short duration) or chronic (long-lasting).

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Separation of nail fold from nail plate
Red, painful swelling of skin around nail plate
Pus, drainage
Changes of nail plate
Greenish tint to nail

CAUSES

Infection by bacteria, Candida albicans, other fungi, or molds

RISK FACTORS

Trauma to skin surrounding nail
Ingrown nails
Frequent immersion of hands in water
Diabetes mellitus

DIAGNOSIS

WHAT THE DOCTOR LOOKS FOR:

The doctor will identify the presence of nail fungus.

TESTS AND PROCEDURES:

Nail tissue may be sampled for laboratory analysis.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

Acute: warm compresses or soaks, elevation
Chronic: keep fingers dry
Surgical incision and drainage of abscess, if present
Partial or complete removal of nail may be necessary

ACTIVITY

Full activity

DIET

No special diet

FOLLOW UP

PREVENTION/AVOIDANCE

Avoid frequent wetting of hands; wear rubber gloves with cloth liner
Good diabetic control

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

Dicloxacillin
Cloxacillin
Erythromycin
Cephalexin (Keflex)
Mupirocin
Imidazoles (econazole, ketoconazole)
Itraconazole
Fluconazole

WHAT TO EXPECT

With adequate treatment and prevention, healing can be expected.

MISCELLANEOUS

OTHER NOTES

N/A

PREGNANCY

N/A

Clinical Investigations

ROLE OF HOMOEOPATHY

Holistic healing that treats the person, not just the disease. Experience gentle, lasting wellness with expert constitutional care.