What is nail fungus and how is it treated?

Onychomycosis, more commonly known as nail fungus, is an infection caused by a fungus. It attacks the nails of the feet and hands, but more frequently the feet. It is important to know that treatment is absolutely necessary to treat this condition. Let's first look at what exactly this fungal infection is.  

The indices

There are several characteristics that can indicate a nail infection, including:

• Nail discolouration
• Nail thickening
• Brittle nails
• Nails that easily break
• Yellowing of the nail

Risk factors

Nail fungus is called dermatophyte. It is composed of several micro-organisms that have the ability to multiply rapidly. Certain conditions favour the development of these microorganisms, such as:

Age

Poor circulation, slowed growth, and thickened nails make the elderly more vulnerable.

Moisture

Being exposed to wet environments and having wet feet or hands often increases the risk of infection.

Barefoot

Floors in public places, such as swimming pools and locker rooms, are often contaminated. Walking barefoot is risky because of the high level of contagion.

Athlete's foot

The fungus that causes athlete's foot can cause a fungal infection of the nails.

Psoriasis

The type of psoriasis that affects the nails increases the possibility of contracting nail fungus.

A lesion

Cuts or lesions on the skin or nails are a real entry point for the infection

Perspiration

Abundant sweat creates a favourable place and conditions for the proliferation of micro-organisms.

Socks and shoes

The lack of air circulation in  socks and shoes increases the risk of developing this condition.

Diabetes

The disease weakens the immune system and impairs blood flow, which lowers the body's defenses and increases the chances of infection.

Being a man

Men get nail fungus more often than women and children.

Prevention

Good hand and foot hygiene reduces the frequency and risks of nail fungus. Simple everyday gestures could save you a lot of trouble, for example:

• Keep nails short and well maintained
• Avoid sharing toiletries, such as nail clippers
• Avoid nail polish and false nails
• Wear shoes or sandals at all times in public places
• Disinfect shoes with a disinfectant and antifungal powder

An option for treatment

Emtrix®* antifungal treatment is an easy-to-use liquid solution that restores your nails to normal without filing. Simply apply a thin layer to the affected nail once a day with a silicone-tipped applicator to prevent waste. The combination of the two active ingredients in Emtrix®, urea and lactic acid, effectively treats fungal nail infection caused by fungi. A fungal nail infection is not to be overlooked as it can be contagious and can get worse over time. As soon as the first signs of infection appear, it is important to start treatment.

For more information on Emtrix® antifungal treatment, visit the company's website at https://emtrix.ca/en.

In collaboration with Emtrix and Vie de Parent

* This product may not be suitable for you. Always read the label and follow the directions.