Fungal Infections
Ringworm, yeast infections, jock itch and athlete's foot are all fungal infections. Most fungal infections on the skin can be treated with a cream or preparation that is applied directly to it. Oral antifungals are another choice for infections that can't be reached by direct application. Washing regularly, use of powder and keeping skin dry can help prevent some types of fungal infection like athlete's foot.
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- Q How is toenail fungus treated?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyToenail fungus is treated with oral antifungal medicines, which help a new nail to grow, replacing the infected one. You may need to take this medication for six to 12 weeks, depending on how severe the infection is. Oral antifungal medicines may... Full Answer
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- Q What can I do to manage my fungal nail infections?
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If you have a mild fungal nail infection or are concerned about the risks of taking antifungal pills, try an antifungal medicine you put directly on your skin (topical medicine). Some people find that tea tree oil or cream works well for treating and... Full Answer
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- Q When should I call my doctor if I have fungal nail infections?
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Call your doctor for an immediate appointment if a fungal nail infection shows signs of bacterial infection, such as: Increased pain, swelling, redness, tenderness or heat. Red streaks extending from the area. Discharge of pus. Fever of 100°F... Full Answer
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- Q What causes fungal nail infections?
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Fungal nail infections can be caused by three different types of fungus, alone or in combination. Dermatophytes are a type of fungus that can grow on the skin, hair and nails. They don't invade the deeper tissues of the body. The most common... Full Answer
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- Q How are fungal nail infections diagnosed?
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To determine the cause of a nail problem and diagnose a fungal nail infection, your doctor: Will ask about your medical history, including any previous symptoms of nail damage or fungal nail infections. Will look at the skin and nails on your hands... Full Answer
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- Q What procedures help treat fungal nail infections?
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Surgical nail removal may be used to treat severe or recurring fungal nail infections. After the diseased nail tissue is removed, an antifungal cream can be applied directly to the infected area. This is likely to work better than using one of these... Full Answer
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- Q How do fungal nail infections affect my body?
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Fungal infections are classified by where they begin and what they affect. Most fungal nail infections affect the skin under the nail (nail bed) and the nail itself (nail plate). Fungal nail infections typically get worse, or progress, very slowly. The... Full Answer
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- Q What are the symptoms of fungal nail infections?
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A fungal nail infection usually isn't painful. But without treatment, over time it can become uncomfortable or even painful to wear shoes, walk or stand for a long time. Your symptoms will depend on the type of infection you have. The two most common... Full Answer
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- Q What increases my risk for fungal nail infections?
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You are more likely to get a nail infection if you: Are older than 60. Have diabetes or a weak immune system. Have a nail injury like a hangnail or an ingrown toenail. Wear shoes that make your feet moist or sweaty. Live or work in a hot, humid place Full Answer
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- Q How can I help prevent fungal nail infections?
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After your fungal nail infection has been successfully treated, take steps to prevent the infection from coming back. Before bed, thoroughly wash and dry your feet or hands. Then apply a topical antifungal, such as terbinafine (Lamisil) or ciclopirox... Full Answer
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