Timely diagnosis is crucial for treatment of onychomycosis

 onychomycosis

Any change in the shape, texture, and colour of nails should be taken seriously because onychomycosis is a common fungal nail infection affecting millions of people worldwide. Institute of Applied Dermatology (IAD) director and senior dermatologist Dr K S Prasanna said onychomycosis could significantly impact a person's quality of life if the disease is left untreated for a long time.

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that primarily affects the nails, most commonly the toenails. It is caused by fungi such as dermatophytes, yeast, and molds. The nails suffer discolouration, thickening, and brittleness when the fungi invade the nail bed and plate.

Dr Prasanna emphasizes that proper diagnosis is crucial for the effective treatment of onychomycosis. "Medical professionals diagnose the disease through microscopy and fungal cultures. It's not advisable to rely solely on visual inspection for medication. A detailed test is mandatory to identify the disease and choose an appropriate treatment tailored to the specific fungal species involved," she added.

Considering the severity of the disease, the treatment plan can include topical anti-fungal medications applied directly to the affected nails or oral anti-fungal medication. In some cases, doctors may also opt for laser therapy or surgical intervention.

Dr Prasanna also points out certain preventive measures to reduce the risk of onychomycosis recurrence. It's advised to keep nails trimmed, wear breathable footwear, and practice good foot hygiene.

It is imperative to consult a professional medical practitioner when you notice signs of discolouration and brittleness in your nails. "Timely diagnosis is crucial for the treatment of onychomycosis," she added.