Onychomycosis, also called onychomycosis, refers to a fungal infection of the nail. It most often appears on the toenails (the big toes being the most frequently affected), sometimes on the fingernails, and different causes can explain its occurrence. In this article, the nail supplies expert Maryton will explain everything to you.
Most of the time, onychomycosis is due to fungi, dermatophytes, which infiltrate under the nail, at the level of the nail plate. Toenail fungus often comes from untreated foot fungus, which has caused the infection to spread from the skin to the nails.
These fungi do not exist on the skin in its natural state, their presence therefore comes from external contamination. Dermatophytes are frequently transmitted in public places, especially when you are in contact with damp floors. The swimming pool, sauna, gym or even showers in hotels are places where onychomycosis is easily transmitted.
Nail fungus is not always due to dermatophyte fungi, it can also be triggered by the presence of yeast, mainly on the hands. These are present naturally on the skin, but can cause skin fungus or nail fungus at the slightest change or imbalance. Yeast infections are common in people who often have their hands in water.
Finally, nail fungus can be caused by mold found in contaminated soil.
Nail fungus mainly affects adults and is more common in older people. Certain factors can promote them, such as diabetes or certain skin diseases (most notably psoriasis), taking certain medications (immunosuppressive treatments, chemotherapy, etc.), poor foot hygiene, or even unsuitable shoes.
Remember to always wear shoes that fit you, wide enough not to compress the toes, and breathable to limit perspiration and humidity, which is particularly favorable to the development of fungi.
To reduce the risk of toenail fungus and keep your feet healthy, always wear sandals in public places and avoid lending shoes, socks, towels, nail clippers or nail files to anyone else. In addition, invest in some disposable manicure and pedicure sets to greatly reduce the chance of infection.
Read also: Advanced techniques to enhance your nails
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