Fungus

1. [noun] image source: livestrong.com Accessed: July 5th 2019 A fungus is a primitive organism without chlorophyll that reproduces as spores. Mushrooms, molds, and mildew are examples. Fungi live in air, in soil, on plants and in water. Some live in the human body. Some fungi reproduce through tiny spores in the air. You can inhale the spores or they can land on you. As a result, fungal infections often start in the lungs or on the skin. You are more likely to get a fungal infection if you have a weakened immune system or take antibiotics. Fungi can be difficult to kill. For skin and nail infections, you can apply medicine directly to the infected area. Oral antifungal medicines are also available for serious infections. See: https://medlineplus.gov/fungalinfections.html ; Accessed June 12 2019. Additional definition: Nail fungus is a common condition that typically starts on the distal free edge and slowly moves towards the proximal edge (matrix) of the toenail. Fungus results in discolored, thickened, and crumbling nails. Nail fungus is also called onychomycosis (on-ih-koh-my-KOH-sis). Onycho = refers to nail Mychosis = refers to funal infection. The most common infecting organism is the dermatophyte. When fungus infects the areas between your toes and the skin of your feet, it's called athlete's foot (tinea pedis). Characteristics: Thickened Whitish to yellow-brown discoloration Brittle, crumbly or ragged Distorted in shape A dark color, caused by debris building up under your nail Smelling slightly foul Fungus in 1 or more nails Most common fungi is the dermatophyte, but yeast and molds are also seen in fungal infections. Toenail fungal infection can start from athlete's foot (foot fungus), and it can spread from one nail to another. Risk factors Factors that can increase your risk of developing nail fungus include: Being older, owing to reduced blood flow, more years of exposure to fungi and slower growing nails. Nails with older adults is dry and brittle which allow fungi to enter through cracks. Sweating heavily (provides the warm, moist environment) Having a history of athlete's foot (transferred to nail from skin) Walking barefoot in damp communal areas, such as swimming pools, gyms and shower rooms Having a minor skin or nail injury or a skin condition, such as psoriasis Having diabetes, circulation problems or a weakened immune system Complications A severe case of nail fungus can be painful and may cause permanent damage to your nails. And it may lead to other serious infections that spread beyond your feet if you have a suppressed immune system due to medication, diabetes or other conditions. If you have diabetes, you may have reduced blood circulation and nerve supply in your feet. You're also at greater risk of a bacterial skin infection (cellulitis). So any relatively minor injury to your feet — including a nail fungal infection — can lead to a more serious complication. See your doctor if you have diabetes and think you're developing nail fungus. Prevention Wash your hands and feet regularly. Wash your hands after touching an infected nail. Moisturize your nails after washing. Trim nails straight across, smooth the edges with a file and file down thickened areas. Disinfect your nail clippers after each use. Wear sweat-absorbing socks or change your socks throughout the day. Choose shoes made of materials that breathe. Discard old shoes or treat them with disinfectants or antifungal powders. Wear footwear in pool areas and locker rooms. Choose a nail salon that uses sterilized manicure tools for each customer. Give up nail polish and artificial nails

Source: https://medlineplus.gov/fungalinfections.html