Millions of people have toenail fungus, and it seems like an ordinary condition that can be cured by taking some fungal nail tablets. The problem is that most individuals do not take this condition seriously because, at first glance, it looks harmless and non-life threatening.
However, if you are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, you should take this condition more seriously. Here are some of the things that you should learn about toenail fungus and how it affects diabetic individuals.
What is nail fungus?
The other medical term for nail fungus is known as onychomycosis which affects one out of three people with diabetes. Nail fungus may look like a simple feet problem. Still, it can get worse for diabetic patients because some of them suffer from neuropathy or loss of sensation. By the time that they find out about the condition, the nail is severely infected, resulting in severe wounds.
What are the common symptoms of toenail fungus?
- Thick and brittle nails
- Itchy nailbeds
- Yellowish in colour
- Smelly feet in some cases
If you have diabetes, there is a chance that you could have poor circulation in your lower extremities. You may not be able to see or feel any wounds or significant changes on your feet. That is why it is your responsibility to see a podiatrist every two months and give your feet a thorough check-up.
What kind of treatment should you get for nail fungus?
Your doctor will determine the kind of treatment that you should receive for your toenail fungus. There are oral supplements, creams or ointments that can help improve your nail’s appearance over time. Nail fungus is one hundred per cent curable. However, the treatment will take time, so you have to be more patient and cooperative when taking your prescribed medications.
What happens if you do not treat nail fungus?
Having ugly looking nails can affect your self-esteem in many ways. But what is more worrisome is that it could lead to complications in the future. The fungus can spread on other nails, and it can result in non-healing wounds, which is dangerous for people who have high blood sugar levels as it could lead to limb amputation if not addressed urgently.
Are home remedies effective?
Some patients claimed that trying out some home remedies worked out well for their nail fungal infections. They have tried several products like Vicks, apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil to treat the condition. Although there are no concrete studies that prove the effectiveness of these products, it is up to you if you want to give it a try or not.
What can you do to prevent nail fungus from happening?
- Keep your feet clean and dry especially the spaces in between the toes
- Avoid walking barefoot in wet or damp areas
- Wear absorbent socks and comfortable shoes
Lastly, it does not matter if you have diabetes or not. As part of your daily hygiene, you should address foot problems as soon as possible.
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