Onychomycosis, the official term for toenail fungus, may appear to be a small aesthetic issue, but if left untreated, it can have major health effects. A podiatrist at Allegheny Health Network, Dr. Peter Joseph, cautions that ignoring an infected toenail could result in a number of consequences.
Foot discomfort is one concern that could arise. The thickening and misshapening of the infected nail as the fungus spreads makes walking uncomfortable and challenging, especially while wearing shoes.
Athlete’s foot, which is distinguished by red, itchy, and cracked skin, can also result from untreated toenail fungus because it can spread to the nearby skin. The warm, wet atmosphere found within shoes makes for the perfect habitat for the fungus to grow and spread.
Even more worrisome is the possibility of a widespread infection, which poses a serious risk, particularly for people with compromised immune systems like those with diabetes. Cellulitis, a bacterial skin condition that can be fatal, can result from the fungus penetrating the skin and creating cracks. If the infection is severe enough, it may potentially enter the bloodstream and become fatal.
Onycholysis, a condition where the toenail separates from the nail bed, can also occur in fungus-infected toenails. In some situations, it could be necessary to remove the damaged area of the nail. Avulsion of the entire nail or a matrix ectomy, which eliminates the nail’s developing core at the base, may be necessary in some cases if standard treatments are unsuccessful.
Dr. Joseph suggests visiting a doctor if there is a suspicion of an infection since he understands the significance of receiving medical care for toenail fungal infections. The existence of the fungus can be determined by analyzing a tiny sample of the toenail. Once a condition has been identified, treatment options include oral or topically applied antifungal medicines, which are often well tolerated and have few adverse effects.
Some doctors may choose to take a wait-and-see strategy in small cases that don’t cause discomfort, keeping an eye on the infected nail over time. The fungus might not become worse even though it is unlikely to go away on its own. A tiny amount of medicine may be recommended in these circumstances to alleviate aesthetic issues.
The main lesson to be learned from this is that toenail fungus should not be disregarded. Complications, discomfort, and the maintenance of healthy feet can all be avoided with early diagnosis and effective treatment. Therefore, do not hesitate to seek expert assistance from a healthcare specialist if you suspect a toenail fungal infection.
Athlete’s Sweet Treat Turns Deadly: What Really Happened at Thanksgiving
It was Thanksgiving in Maine, and 11-year-old Oakley Debbs was on vacation with his family. Oakley, a top student from West Palm Beach, Florida, was also a star athlete, even though he had asthma and food allergies.
For the holiday, his family had ordered a Thanksgiving basket full of treats. Oakley chose to have a piece of cake from the basket.
Tragically, something went wrong after he ate the cake, leading to a heartbreaking event. His family and friends are now working to raise awareness and prevent similar incidents from happening to others.
Despite his asthma and nut allergies, Oakley loved playing tennis, football, soccer, and even running marathons. His family remembers him as a “brave and strong warrior” who fought hard against his conditions.
On November 24, Oakley Debbs, an 11-year-old, had a piece of pound cake that was left on the kitchen table where his family was staying in Maine. His mom, Merrill Debbs, said Oakley always checked labels to avoid nuts and didn’t see any warnings.
“He thought it was just a piece of cake,” his dad, Robert Debbs, explained. “But after he ate it, he mentioned it might have nuts.” Merrill agreed the cake had a nutty taste, which turned out to be walnut.
Merrill gave Oakley Benadryl, as they usually did for allergic reactions, and he said he felt fine. At that point, he only had a small hive on his lip.
But soon after, Oakley complained of chest pain and started vomiting. His parents called 911, but by the time the ambulance arrived ten minutes later, Oakley was blue. His airway had closed, and his heart had stopped.
I’m writing on behalf of Robert J. Debbs, Merrill Debbs, and Oakley’s twin sister, Olivia. It is with a heavy heart that I…
Posted by Tyler Debbs Squire on Saturday, November 26, 2016
The family struggled to accept Oakley’s tragic death and understand why he couldn’t be saved.
“I don’t think my beautiful, amazing son should have passed away,” Merrill said.
In response, the family started the Red Sneaker Foundation to teach people about anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. They chose red sneakers as a symbol because Oakley loved them, hoping to increase awareness about food allergies.
Posted by Red Sneakers For Oakley on Thursday, December 1, 2016
Experts recommend using epinephrine for even mild allergic reactions. Merrill said, “Oakley was a rock star, a good kid. I always knew he’d make a difference—just not after he passed away. That’s a big part of why we’re doing this.”
Please share this story to help raise awareness about food allergies and prevent future tragedies.
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