How to treat onychomycosis

　　Onychomycosis not only affects the appearance, but can also be easily transmitted to other nails and even family members. It is "onychomycosis" caused by fungal infection, which is stubborn and spreading. Many people mistakenly think that it is just a small problem, but it turns out to be more serious as time goes by. In fact, scientific treatment can completely cure it. So, how to treat onychomycosis? Which method is most effective and suitable for you? Below are the answers for you.

How to treat onychomycosis

　　1. Topical drug treatment

　　Suitable for mild onychomycosis (infected area ≤ 1/2 of the nail), first grind the infected nail thin, then apply antifungal ointment (such as terbinafine cream) or use antifungal lotion, 1-2 times a day, for 3-6 months. Pay attention to the application area to cover the diseased nail and surrounding skin to ensure drug penetration and inhibit fungal growth.

　　2. Oral drug treatment

　　Moderate to severe onychomycosis requires oral antifungal drugs (such as itraconazole, fluconazole), which should be taken according to the course of treatment (usually once a week for 3-4 months). Liver function needs to be checked regularly during medication to avoid drug damage to the liver, and medication must be taken in sufficient amounts and for a full course of treatment as directed by the doctor to prevent recurrence.

　　3.Physical and surgical treatment

　　Laser treatment can kill fungi in the nail plate through photothermal action. It is suitable for those who are intolerant to drugs and requires multiple treatments.； If the nail is severe and medicine is ineffective, the nail can be removed surgically. The wound needs to be cared for after surgery to prevent infection. Antifungal treatment is still required after new nail grows to reduce the risk of reinfection.

Check items for onychomycosis

　　1. Direct microscopic examination of fungi

　　Take the edge fragments of the diseased nail and observe it under a microscope. If fungal hyphae or spores are found, onychomycosis can be initially diagnosed. This test is fast, convenient and low-cost. It is the first choice for primary screening of onychomycosis. However, false negatives may occur due to insufficient sampling and must be combined with other tests for judgment.

　　2. Fungal culture examination

　　Inoculate the diseased nail sample onto the culture medium and culture it for 2-4 weeks to identify the fungal species (such as dermatophytes and yeast). This examination can accurately determine the pathogenic bacteria and provide a basis for selecting sensitive antifungal drugs. It is especially suitable for patients whose drug treatment is ineffective or for whom the type of fungus needs to be clarified.

　　3. Imaging examination

　　When onychomycosis is suspected to be combined with subungual infection or bone damage, X-ray or ultrasound examination is required. X-ray can observe the bone condition under the nail, and ultrasound can clearly display the thickness of the nail plate and the structure under the nail, helping to determine the scope of infection and rule out other nail diseases (such as nail dystrophy and nail tumors).

Daily care for onychomycosis

　　1. Keep nails clean and dry

　　Wash your hands and feet frequently and dry them with a towel after washing, paying special attention to the gaps between nails； Avoid prolonged immersion in water and wear gloves when doing housework to prevent moisture on your nails from breeding fungus. If there is dirt on the nail, clean it gently with a soft-bristled brush. Do not pick at the diseased nail at will to avoid damage and aggravation of infection.

　　2. Carry out personal protection and isolation

　　Do not share nail clippers, slippers, towels and other personal items with others to prevent cross-infection； Wear loose and breathable shoes and socks, choose cotton socks, change them every day, and expose the shoes to the sun regularly or disinfect them with antifungal spray to reduce the residual fungi in the shoes and reduce the probability of recurrence.

　　3. Avoid irritating nails

　　Do not apply nail polish or perform manicures. Manicure tools can easily damage the nail plate, making it easier for fungi to invade.； When trimming your nails, avoid cutting them too short to prevent damage to the nail bed and the spread of infection. ； If there is redness, swelling or itching around the nails, deal with it promptly to avoid scratching aggravating the condition.

　　Onychomycosis is not a hidden disease, but a treatable disease. With early detection, early treatment, choosing the right plan, and consistent medication, new healthy nails will eventually grow back. Don't let an onychomycosis ruin the appearance of your feet.