(Communication Manager Jamie Watkins recently interviewed Dr. Jennifer Ashton about several very important health issues pertaining to girls and women.)
Question:How can I tell if I have nail fungus, or if there is something else wrong with my nails? Answer: Often times nail fungus can cause a yellowish tint or discoloration to the nail. You might see ridges or bumps on the nail along with this yellow color, or the nail might appear dry or cracked. Nail fungus is more common on the toes, compared to the hands, but it can appear in either place.
Question:Why is treating fungus important? Answer: Fungus can cause damage to the nail, the nail bed and even the surrounding skin and cuticle, so it is important to treat it.
Question:What causes nail fungus? Answer: Fungus, such as yeast, can infect the nails, just as it can infect other types of skin. (Did you know your nails are really hardened skill cells? They are!) and other parts of the body. It is rare for children or teens to have nail fungus, but it is possible. If your parents have nail fungus, you have a higher chance of having it too.
Question:How do you treat nail fungus? Answer: Treatment can be tricky, since yeast can be very stubborn! Things like topical creams, gels, special nail polishes, or even medicine in pill form are all possibilities. It can take a long time for nail fungus to go away completely.
Question:Is it true that a doctor can see underlying medical issues just by examining a person's nails? Answer: Sometimes! The nails can give us a real "window" into a person's health! We can see if someone is anemic (having low iron in their blood), can detect certain heart conditions, liver problems, lung diseases, nutritional problemsall by examining someone's nails! Isn't medicine cool?
Question:What are some simple nail care tips I can follow to avoid nail fungus? Answer: Practicing good overall hygiene is important. Keep nails short or well-filed. Don't bite or chew your nails. And, if you go to a nail salon, it is a good idea to bring your own instruments. If you think you have a nail problem, (as always) talk to your parents and/or your doctor!
To you health!
Wishing you good health,
Dr. Jennifer Ashton, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
