Against onychomycosis, no self-medication

Fungi lodge in the nail is unsightly, disabling or despairing. Because it is very difficult to get rid of ... Onychomycosis is much more common than we think. In France, 6 million people are infected.
Very contagious, it mainly affects young adults and the elderly. "This dermatological condition begins on the side edge or nail tip," says Dr Renaud Laurans, dermatologist in Marseille. "At this point some of the nail becomes clearer. It then extends to the matrix, which corresponds to the region where the nail is manufactured. But it can also be in the form of white spots on the hard part of the nail, it is called superficial leuconychomycose ".
A sample of the infected nail should be made to ensure correct diagnosis: the infection is caused by fungi that feed on the hard material of the nails, keratin. The nail thickens, changes color and can take off from the bed Within months, it may be totally destroyed! "A number of predisposing factors have been identified," he says. "First of all age. But there are other factors such as diabetes, a weakened immune system, poor hygiene of the feet, sweating. RSI and small lesions involved in the development of onychomycosis. "Just like wearing tight shoes, safety shoes, frequent contact with water and insufficient drying between the toes after showering.
"Once diagnosed, we prescribe the right products and so effective." The assumption is based on the removal of the infected area mechanically or chemically with ointments that will destroy the infected part of the nail, then a relay an antifungal cream to ensure a healthy regrowth of the nail. But also prevent relapse. The use of film-forming solutions is rather reserved for superficial damage. If unsuccessful, oral therapy should be considered, alone or combined with local forms. A delay of at least 21 days is required to obtain a result. In the event of discordant results (negative while infection seems obvious), do not hesitate to repeat sampling.
"Now the problem," according to Dr. Laurans, "is that too often patients self-prescribe products, often also not reimbursed, or sometimes on the advice of the entourage, the podiatrist, of pharmacist, doctor or even when no formal diagnosis was established. "Dr. Renaud Laurans stresses the importance of correct diagnosis with a formula that has the merit of being clear:" No proper diagnosis, no good treatment! "