Well-being Q&A: Fungal infections
Dr V.L. Shyam, MD (Ay) offers advice to readers of Friday .
For over a year, I have been experiencing pain in both my elbows. I work out at the gym regularly. Do you think this could be the reason for the pain?
AB, by email
Your elbow pain could probably be due to tendinitis and most likely tricep tendinitis which is common amongst body builders.
Tendinitis means inflammation of a tendon. It causes pain and tenderness near a joint. The triceps are used to straighten the arms. This muscle is attached to the back of the elbow by a large tendon. Tricep tendinitis occurs from overuse and excessive force on the upper arm and elbow (like bench pressing). Although tendinitis can be caused by a sudden injury, the condition is much more likely to originate from the repetition of a particular movement over time. The treatment for most tendinitis is as follows:
- Immobilise the affected area to encourage healing. You may cover it in a cotton pad soaked in an Ayurveda oil such as Murivenna* and use anelastic wrap.
- Rest is essential for tissue healing. After a few days of completely resting the injured area, gently move it through its full range of motion for joint flexibility.
- Improve your technique or get professional instructions on using exercise equipment.
- Before you exercise, take time to stretch and warm up.
My wife has had a fungal toenail infection for two years. We've tried allopathy, homeopathy and home cures without success. Can you recommend a treatment?
P kumar, by email
A nail fungal infection may begin as a white or yellow spot under the toenail. As the nail fungus spreads deeper into your nail, it may cause the nail to discolour, thicken and develop breaking edges. It can become a painful condition.
Nail fungus infection occurs more in toenails because they are often confined in a dark, warm, moist environment where a fungus can thrive. The condition is more common among older adults. Other risk factors are heavy perspiring, humid or moist environments, walking barefoot in damp public places, having athlete's foot, a damaged nail or another infection, diabetes, circulation problems and/or a weak immune system.
A nail fungus infection can be difficult to treat, as it might recur. Practise good foot hygiene. Always remember to keep nails short and dry. Don't go barefoot in public places. Nail fungus can spread from nail to nail; therefore, wash your hands after touching an infected nail.
Your wife might have to take some internal antifungal medication as this is a chronic case. Consult an Ayurvedic doctor so that he can prescribe suitable medication. She could also try:
- Soaking her feet for 15 to 20 minutes in a mixture of 1 part vinegar to 2 parts warm water. Be sure to rinse well and pat feet dry.
- Neem and turmeric are good antifungal applications; soak feet in water boiled with neem leaves and turmeric. Pat dry and rub on Jathyadi ghritham*.
*Available at shops selling herbal products
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Well-being,Friday, Gulf News,PO Box 6519, Dubai, UAEFax: 04 3421039friday@gulfnews.com
