The Risks of Ignoring Fungal Infections

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.

These 8 Shocking Effects Will Make You Think Twice About Letting Your Dog Sleep in Bed

Should you let your dog sleep in your bed or not? That’s a question many dog owners ask. For me, it’s cozy having my dog by my side—it helps me relax. I just have to wash my sheets more often!

Dog owners have different opinions on this. Some think it’s not clean, while others believe it’s calming and helps them sleep better.

But now, research shows there are benefits to letting your dog sleep with you.

A study from the Center for Sleep Medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona looked at 150 people, and the results were interesting.

Among them, 56 percent said they shared their bed or bedroom with a dog or cat. And of those, 41 percent said their pets helped them sleep better at night, according to the U.K. newspaper, the *Daily Mail*.

The research showed that most people felt more relaxed and secure sleeping with their pets nearby.

Still unsure? Here are eight reasons why research says sleeping with your pet is good for you.

1. **Comforting**
Having your dog close for cuddles can make you feel happier before bed.

2. **Helps you fall asleep**
Many people struggle to fall asleep, and a study shows that having a dog nearby reduces stress, making it easier to drift off.

3. **Reduces stress**
Research shows that dogs help lower stress. Therapy dogs are a great example of how animals support people after tough times in their lives.

4. **Provides warmth**
Dogs like being close to us, and during winter, they offer extra warmth in bed.

5. **Lowers the risk of depression**
Dogs give unconditional love. For people dealing with depression, having a dog nearby can lift their mood.

6. **Safe space**
Even if your dog isn’t the best guard dog, having them close makes you feel safer. They help scare off anyone thinking about breaking in, and their sharp hearing can detect intruders, making dog owners feel more secure.

7. **Good for your dog**
It’s not just you who benefits—your dog enjoys being close to you at night too. Your dog loves you more than anyone else, and being by your side brings them comfort and happiness.

8. **Dogs are good for your brain**
Feeling calm, safe, and happy when your dog sleeps beside you happens because your brain releases more oxytocin when you pet your dog. Oxytocin is a hormone that makes you feel relaxed, confident, and emotionally stable. This not only improves your mood but also benefits your brain, according to studies.

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