Onychomycosis (onycho means nails and mycosis means fungal infection) is a fungal infection of the fingernails or toenails. The infection cause on nails bed and of the plate under the surface of the nail. It is also known as Dermatophytic onychomycosis, Ringworm of the nail, and Tinea unguium.

PREVALENCE OF ONYCHOMYCOSIS

This condition may affect toenails or fingernails, but toe-nail infections are particularly common. The prevalence of onychomycosis is about 6-8% in the adult population.

CAUSES OF ONYCHOMYCOSIS

It is caused by three types of fungi such as:

1) Dermatophytes,

2) Yeasts,

3) Non-dermatophyte molds.

Fungi are simple parasitic plant organisms that do not need sunlight to grow. Toenails are especially susceptible because fungi prefer dark damp places. Swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers typically harbor fungi.

RISK FACTORS OF ONYCHOMYCOSIS 

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, problems with the circulatory system, or immune deficiency disease are risk factors. A history of athlete's foot and excess perspiration are also risk factors.

SYMPTOMS OF ONYCHOMYCOSIS 

Thickening of fingernails or toenails,

Discoloration, disfigure, and split.

Depending on the fungus type nail may turn yellow, gray, brown, or black.

The nail  become brittle and cracked. It may separate from its bed. The surrounding skin may become red, itchy or swollen.

PREVENTION OF ONYCHOMYCOSIS 

To prevent fungal growth, it is advisable to:

• Keep the feet clean and dry, after washing with soap and water and dry it immediately.
• Keep the nails cut short and wearing shower shoes whenever walking or showering in public places
• Daily changes of shoes, socks, or hosiery are also helpful
• Excessively tight hose or shoes creates moisture, which in turn, provides a wonderful environment for onychomycotic infections. Prevent from this , individuals should wear only socks made of synthetic fibers, which can absorb moisture more quickly than those made of cotton or wools.
• Always use disinfected manicure and pedicure tools .
• Avoid nail polish to nails that are infected, as it will tpped the  water or moisture content.
• Avoid cutting or tearing the skin around the toenails since this may be an entry point for infection. 

HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT OF ONYCHOMYCOSIS 

SIlicea – Homeopathic Remedy for Nail fungus with Pus , Infection and sharp Pains in Toenail

Silicea is an excellent homoeopathic remedy for  fungus . I feel it is best recommended to patients who have very cold feet and palms. Their nails are infected and disfigured. The patient oozes bad smelling sweat from the feet, hands and armpits. It is also seen to be associated with a sharp pain in the finger and toe nails. The pain is unbearable and the patient seems to be very restless and irritable. Silicea can be given to patients in whom the nails grow inwards and are surrounded with flesh and pus.

GRAPHITES – Homeopathy for Nail Fungus when Nails Crack

I have found that homeopathic medicine Graphites is suitable for cases of nail disorders characterized by inward growth of the nails, especially of the toe nails. The nails tend to ulcerate and the surrounding tissue is swollen.Homeopathic Medicine Graphites can be given in cases where the pain is deep seated and the patient cannot bear to be touched. The affected parts are very sore and painful. Graphites may be given in cases where there is thickening of the nails. In some cases, there may be a deformity of nails which break easily. Homeopathic remedy Graphites may be given for nail infection in people with cracked finger tips.

BUFO RANA: Homeopathic medicine for Nail Infection and Fungus that turns the Nail Blue

 Its very effective homeopathic remedy for treating fungal infections of the nails and toenail which appear bluish or blackish in color. This Homeopathic medicine may be given to patients in whom the skin surrounding the nails is swollen and there is occasional formation of pus. Nail affections are associated with a deep dull pain that runs upward till the axilla (armpit).

FLOURIC ACID: Homeopathic medicine for Fast Growing and Crippled Nails With Fungal Infection

Homeopathic medicine Flouric acid assures positive results in cases where the nails grow very fast and are crippled. People have nails with longitudinal ridges. Nail changes may be associated with a sore pain in between the toes. Homeopathic medicine Flouric acid may also be prescribed in cases of nail infection with corns which are sore to touch.