Fungus on the feet, or mycosis, is one of the most common diseases around the world. Absolutely all people are subject to it, regardless of the general state of he alth. According to average estimates, on Earth, most of humanity has suffered this disease at least once. This fact is due to the fact that the causative agents of the fungus on the legs - Trichophyton or Candida spores are able to penetrate into the dermis or even human blood in a short period of time.
After contact with the pathogen, the disease quickly spreads throughout the body. It is absolutely impossible to delay the treatment of this disease. You should immediately seek help from a specialist who will help determine how to cure the fungus on the legs quickly and effectively. It is worth noting that in the early stages the disease responds better to treatment than those cases when the spores of the fungus have already penetrated into the deeper layers of the skin.
This article will help you figure out what are the causes of the appearance of fungus on the legs, which doctor to consult, and will also consider the most popular and effective remedies prescribed in the fight against the disease.
Causes, favorable factors and routes of infection
Before you learn how to cure a fungus on your feet, it is very important to understand the causes of its occurrence and methods of infection. Doctors identify the following factors that affect a person's susceptibility to the fungus:
- Age. Children are most susceptible to fungal infection. This is due to their softer and thinner skin.
- The state of immunity. If the human immune system for some reason is weakened or malfunctions, then the likelihood of the appearance of the fungus increases significantly, since the body does not have the ability to fight pathogens.
- Poor condition of the endocrine system. This factor causes a decrease in the protective function of the body, which leads to a weakening of the immune system.
- Chronic diseases. The presence of chronic diseases in a person is a factor contributing to the weakening of the body, which makes it susceptible to various fungi.
- Excessive foot sweating. This feature can be either congenital or acquired. Wearing tight shoes or having certain medical conditions, for example, causes the sweat glands to produce more fluid.
- Composition of sweat. In case of any violations in the secretion of the sweat glands, a favorable environment is formed for the reproduction of pathogenic fungi.
It is worth noting that the fungus can be acquired in two ways:
- directly - by exposure to soil, flooring, and contact with an infected person or animal;
- indirect way - through the object with whichcontacted an infected person or animal.
From the information described above, it is clear that it is extremely easy to get infected with foot fungus, even if a person provides himself with sufficiently high-quality hygiene. Therefore, in the event of a collision with a disease, it is necessary to contact a dermatologist as soon as possible, who will suggest the most appropriate methods of treatment.
Types of foot fungus and their manifestation
It is important to remember that there are different types of mycosis. This is due to the fact that fungi of various types can affect a person, the treatment of which has its own characteristics. It is not enough just to know the best remedies for foot fungus, you need to understand which ones are suitable in a particular situation. Therefore, first you need the correct diagnosis of the disease, and only a qualified specialist can help with this. But self-medication is fraught with the fact that you can start the disease.
It is worth considering separately the types of fungus on the legs. The following types of mycosis are distinguished:
- rubrophytia;
- squamous-hyperkeratotic form;
- erased form;
- onychomycosis;
- candidiasis;
- intertriginous form;
- dyshydric form.
Rubrophytia, or rubromycosis, is characterized by excessive dryness of the skin and its peeling, as well as the filling of blood vessels with large amounts of blood. The causative agent is spores of the fungus Tr. mentagrophytes var. It is quite difficult to notice this fungus on the legs at the initial stage, since the symptoms are in the form of itching or burningappear only when the disease has penetrated deep into the dermis. With rubromycosis, plaques, blisters and pustules appear on the legs, which gradually cover the entire sole, which over time causes a person to experience pain when walking.
After the specialist receives the overall clinical picture and microscopy findings, he determines a number of drugs for treatment, which should consist of exfoliating antifungal agents. Launched forms involve treatment with tablets against the fungus on the legs.
With the squamous-hyperkeratotic form, a person develops a thick keratinized layer of skin that becomes very rough. During this form, the itching is so severe that the person often cannot bear it calmly. Another clear sign of this form of fungus is that over time, the toenails become very thin and begin to crumble.
Treatment of the squamous-hyperkeratotic form involves, first of all, the removal of keratinized skin. Without this, it is not recommended to start treatment, since its effectiveness will be almost imperceptible. Soda baths, wraps with medicinal ointments and salicylic compresses do a good job with this. In advanced cases, it is possible to remove a rough layer with a manicure cutter. Further, the specialist already has the opportunity to prescribe the correct treatment.
Erased shape leaks almost imperceptibly. With it, barely noticeable cracks between the fingers, flour-like peeling, as well as tolerable itching appear. It is worth remembering that ignoring this form increases the likelihood of its transitionin onychomycosis, which will be discussed a little later. The erased form is treated with special ointments and creams.
Onychomycosis is a pathology in which the nail plate is damaged. You can get infected with this fungus in public places with high humidity (saunas, swimming pools, etc.). At the beginning of the disease, the skin is affected, the person experiences severe itching. Later, the spores of the fungus penetrate the nail.
This type of fungus is divided into three types:
- normotrophic;
- hypertrophic;
- onycholytic.
With this disease, even the best remedies for fungus on the feet of local action will not help, since it is necessary to remove the affected nails before starting treatment. This is done using special patches, keratolytic preparations, or by mechanical removal with sterile scissors or nail files.
Candidiasis is a mycosis caused by spores of the Candida fungus. It is worth noting, despite the fact that this fungus is present in the body of every person, it is pathogenic. In a small amount, it is harmless, but under stress, overwork or reduced immunity, it tends to multiply and deliver a lot of discomfort. Foot candidiasis is treated with individually selected topical preparations prescribed by a doctor.
Intertriginous form is one of the most common fungi. Cracks or sores appear on and between the toes, surrounded by diaper rash or flaky skin. Most often, the disease affects a person inwarm season. Sometimes pus may accumulate in the affected areas. At the beginning of the disease, local preparations help well, however, advanced fungus on the legs of this form requires the inclusion of systemic drugs. Otherwise, the likelihood of relapse is high.
The dyshydratic form is a rare type of fungus on the legs, the main symptom of which are numerous vesicles (vesicles containing fluid or pus). After the fluid comes out, ulcers appear on the legs, turning into very noticeable scars. This type of fungus is accompanied by allergic reactions, which makes treatment difficult. In this case, the treatment process includes a whole range of procedures. On the day of the onset, the doctor must get rid of the fluid in the vesicles by piercing them, then treat the ulcers with special means. Next, the patient is prescribed a number of necessary medications.
Treatment
Depending on what type of pathology was detected during the diagnosis, the doctor determines how to cure the fungus on the legs will be the easiest. He selects the appropriate medications and the necessary procedures to speed up the treatment process. Speaking of drugs, they distinguish:
- Local remedies ("Lamisil", "Clotrimazole", "Terbizil", zinc ointment and others). This group of medicines includes various creams and ointments. Their advantage lies in the fact that they are able to act on the foot affected by the fungus locally. They quickly soothe the skin, relieve itching. The disadvantages include the fact that they do not have a cumulative effect, and the course of treatment can take quitea long time.
- Systemic drugs ("Fluconazole", "Irunin", "Terbinafine" and others). Most often these are capsules and tablets. The advantage of such means is the ability to influence the problem from the inside. However, most antifungal tablets have a number of contraindications.
In addition to drug treatment, do not forget about traditional medicine. Various baths with the addition of disinfecting essential oils, soda or herbal decoctions have a good effect on the course of treatment. In combination with medicines, folk remedies and an attentive attitude to personal hygiene, you can quickly cure the fungus on the toes, feet and nails.
Some popular antifungals and folk remedies should be considered. However, it is important to note that you should not prescribe this or that drug yourself, since only a qualified specialist can determine their need for treatment based on the results of the analysis.
"Terbizil" - ointment and tablets
The drug is available in two forms - tablets and ointment. Among the indications for the use of the drug are:
- candidiasis;
- nail fungus;
- dermatomycosis;
- mycosis of the head, etc.
The form of the drug is determined by the doctor, based on the disease. In some cases, the use of the drug occurs under the supervision of specialists. Such cases include tumors, impaired metabolism, circulatory problems, kidney pathology, etc. Ointment "Terbizil" andtablets are used according to the instructions.
Griseofulvin
The drug has various forms of release - suspension, ointment, tablets. It is worth noting that with candidiasis this remedy is ineffective, but with onychomycosis and dermatomycosis, it helps quite well.
The fungistatic property of "Griseofulvin" allows the drug to gradually kill the spores of the strokes. The most important thing in its application is regularity. It is also worth noting that the dosage of the drug for oral administration is calculated based on the weight of the patient, and it is taken according to the scheme indicated in the instructions. Contraindications include problems with the kidneys and liver, systemic blood diseases, pregnancy, lactation, tumors. It is important to note that many experts consider "Griseofulvin" one of the best ointments for fungus on the legs.
"Exoderil" - cream and solution
According to the instructions for use, the ointment from the fungus "Exoderil" is prescribed as a medicinal and prophylactic agent. This is one of the safest remedies for mycosis, as it does not affect the functioning of the liver, unlike many other similar drugs. After one local application, "Exoderil" is able to stay in the upper layers of the skin for 10 days, which makes it an effective remedy for foot fungus.
The most pleasant thing about Exoderil is that its clinical effect comes on very quickly and helps to get rid of discomfort, burning and itching. Prescribe a remedy for many types of fungi. Therefore, it can be considered a universal remedy for the appearance of such diseases.
However, it is important to remember some contraindications. It is forbidden to apply Exoderil to damaged areas of the dermis and the drug should not be allowed to enter the eyes. You should be careful when treating children with this remedy - if any allergic reactions appear, the use of "Exoderil" should be stopped.
Fluconazole
The drug "Fluconazole" contains the active substance of the same name. He has a lot of inexpensive analogues, which can be easily purchased at any pharmacy chain. This remedy helps well with mycosis of the legs, which appeared as a result of the reproduction of spores of fungi of the genus Candida.
"Fucanazole" can be purchased in any convenient form:
- pills;
- solution;
- capsules;
- syrup.
According to the instructions for the drug, it is forbidden to take it to children under 4 years old, pregnant girls, as well as problems with the kidneys and liver.
Overview of folk remedies recommended for the treatment of fungus
Often, in the treatment of many diseases, potassium permanganate comes to the rescue, and foot fungus is no exception. This tool will help in the destruction of pathogenic microorganisms, but it is worth remembering all the precautions, the solution should turn out to be a pale pink color, which after preparation must be filtered through gauze. This is done in order not tothe dissolved crystals did not burn the skin. First you need to steam your legs in warm water, and then wrap them with gauze soaked in a solution of potassium permanganate. You need to fix the gauze well and leave it on your feet all night.
Another effective remedy is a solution of ordinary s alt and baking soda. These improvised means must be mixed in a 1: 1 ratio, add a little water to make a thick slurry. The product should be applied to the feet and left for 15-20 minutes, and then rinsed with warm water and sprinkled with talc.
Strong natural coffee can also help with foot fungus. You should do foot baths in a warm coffee solution at night. The procedure time is from 15 to 30 minutes. The key is to keep the liquid warm.
Celandine from the fungus on the feet is one of the most popular and ancient folk remedies. To prepare the solution, pour 4 tablespoons of dried herbs with 1 liter of water and boil for 5 minutes. Next, the solution is filtered, cooled slightly and foot baths are made. The course of procedures should be at least 3 weeks. Soak your feet in the solution for 30 minutes.
Applicable in the treatment of flexible feet and a plant such as calendula. To prepare the solution, pour 500 grams of flowers with two cups of boiling water and leave for 30 minutes. Next, you need to moisten your feet with the prepared solution. You do not need to rub the product, it should be absorbed completely on its own. The course of treatment with a solution of calendula is 5 weeks.
Fungus Prevention
Always worth itthink about the he alth of the feet, as it is extremely difficult to quickly cure the fungus on the feet. You should remember the following important rules that will help you avoid this unpleasant disease:
- After bathing, it is necessary to wipe the feet dry, starting from the spaces between the fingers, ending with the heel. Especially this rule must be followed if, after bathing, indoor slippers are put on the feet.
- Feet should always be cool and dry.
- When visiting pedicure masters, it is important to check that all tools have been disinfected.
- You should wash your feet daily using soap, preferably antibacterial.
- If there is a problem such as sweaty feet, it is important to use powders or talc.
- In places like saunas, baths, sports clubs and swimming pools, you should always wear your own shoes and not stand barefoot on the floor.
- Don't wear someone else's shoes, even slippers belonging to other family members.
- Shoes must fit. It is best to wear shoes made from natural materials.
- Shoes should be washed and aired regularly. Once a week, you should wipe it with vinegar or use special aerosols against the fungus.
- Don't wear hosiery more than once.
- The tub and shower tray should be disinfected as often as possible.
And it is also worth remembering that if one of the household members has a fungus on his feet, you should reduce contact with his things until it is completelyconvalescence. Regular compliance with these rules will help to avoid the unpleasant consequences of the appearance of the fungus.
Conclusion
You should always remember that getting infected with a fungus is very simple, but getting rid of it is a task that will require a lot of time and effort. At the first manifestations of the disease, you should immediately contact a dermatologist, who will surely determine the type of fungus and tell you how to cure the fungus on the legs.
It is also important to note that traditional medicine methods should not be abandoned, as they often have a positive effect on the treatment process and can significantly speed it up. However, all home manipulations should be agreed in advance with your doctor.
