A nail fungal infection is a nail condition caused by an invasion of a fungus. It is one of the most prevalent nail disorders among adults. This may affect the toenails as well as fingernails. Another name for this condition is onychomycosis.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a nail fungal infection include the following: nail discoloration, nail thickening, and nail crumbling. Sometimes the surrounding skin appears scaly or thickened. The fungus may affect various parts of the nail. In the majority of cases, the tip and sides of the nail are infected first. In some other cases, the top of the nail is covered with white marks. In rare cases of infection, the base of the nail is the most affected.
Causes and Risks
Various types of microorganisms may cause a nail fungal infection. The most common cause of these is the group of fungi known as dermatophytes. However, yeasts and molds may also cause an infection. Fungal nail infections are often linked to the infection of the surrounding skin such as the athlete’s foot. In this condition, it is possible that the same microorganism may have caused the infections.
Other factors and conditions that may cause a toenail fungal infection include diabetes, reduced blood flow to the extremities, nail injury, and other health conditions that may weaken the body’s natural defenses against various infections like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
Treatments
Many factors affect the nail fungus treatment used for nail fungal infections. These include the level of severity, cost, the cause of infection, possible interactions with medications, and patient preference. When several nails are infected, oral antifungals are more appropriate. Topical medications are meant when a few nails are infected and are applied directly to the nail surface. It is recommended for the treatment to last for a few months due to the slow growth of the nails. Nail fungus infections are also likely to reoccur.
1All about Bitter Kola and Honey
It is a bit strange to mix bitter kola and honey. First off, bitter kola has a bitter taste while honey has always been known to be sweet. This unlikely combination, however, is both strange and yet rewarding medicinally. These two components are both packed with multiple health benefits.
Bitter kola is native to several parts of Africa. Bitter kola has been used for treating several conditions from simple cough to complex diabetes. On the other hand, honey offers more than just its sweet taste. It is also one of the good ingredients in many local medicines.
The different parts of the kola plant such as the seeds and the fruits are known for having medicinal properties such as being a cough treatment. The bitter kola is often added to dishes because of the essential minerals found in it like calcium, iron, potassium, fiber, and its antioxidant contents.
Honey, on the other hand, is known for being loaded with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It also adds great flavor to various food products like dairy products and baked goods.
As an Antimicrobial
The bitter kola nut has been observed by a study done by the Federal University in Nigeria to possess antimicrobial properties on various microscopic pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. It was established that it is better off extracted with ethanol solvent. It has the ability to enhance the bioactive compound or component of the plants. This means that the extracts from bitter kola nut can be used by the pharmaceutical industry to manufacture drugs that can treat and prevent various infectious diseases.
Other Health Benefits
The powerful combination of bitter kola and honey may provide the following health benefits:
Diabetes Protection
Another possible health benefit of a bitter kola and honey mixture is diabetes protection. According to a few medical studies, a chemical in bitter kola known as kolaviron may protect people with type 2 diabetes from hypoglycemia. The results are promising although human studies have yet to be conducted to further prove this.
Helps with Weight Loss
One health benefit of bitter kola and honey that people often forget is that they can help with weight loss. This combination can slow down the digestive process and the metabolic rate, making it a great option for those who are trying to lose weight.
Helps Boost the Body’s Immune System
Vitamin C is abundant in this combination, and it is known to increase the body’s immune system. This makes it a natural supplement that can help avoid various diseases from various bacteria and viruses.
Helps Prevent Arthritis
This mixture may also help the body deal with the possibility of getting arthritis. This can help to reduce joint inflammation and reduce swelling in the affected area. Additionally, it can reduce the pain as well as hasten the cure.
Helps with Skin Health
Vitamin E which is found in the ingredients of this combination may benefit the skin. This can help prevent skin inflammation and avoid the possibility of having an acne or eczema breakout. It also ensures smooth and silky skin.
Helps with the Body’s Metabolism
Because honey and bitter kola are great for weight loss, they can also enhance the body’s metabolism. Moreover, they can increase energy formation from food sources. Thus, they can help with the body’s metabolic rate as well.
Good for Cancer Treatment
Bitter kola and honey can help stimulate cell regeneration and prevent cancer cell development. However, this requires further research and more evidence to support this health benefit.
Improves Lung Health
Taking bitter kola and honey can help improve the body’s respiratory system. This can help support lung health.
Helps Prevent Glaucoma
Not many people know that bitter kola and honey can help with glaucoma prevention. The vitamins found in the mixture can help provide a healthy vision and avoid glaucoma.
Helps Treat Colds
These two ingredients can be consumed to help deal with cold and fever symptoms. This can reduce the likelihood of your getting colds and fever. This combination may also avoid fever and stabilize body temperature.
Precautions
Pregnant women must consult their doctors before they take bitter kola and honey to avoid the possibility of getting a miscarriage. People who show allergic reactions to the mixture must avoid taking it.
