Onychomycosis on-ih-koh-my-KOH-sis Correct Pronunciation
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct pronunciation of onychomycosis is “on-ih-koh-my-KOH-sis.” Here’s a breakdown of the pronunciation:
- “on-ih” – The first part sounds like “on” followed by a short “i” sound, as in “hit.”
- “koh” – The second part is pronounced like “co” in “cozy,” with a long “o.”
- “my” – The third part sounds like “my” in “myself.”
- “KOH” – The fourth part emphasizes a long “o,” similar to “co” in “coast.”
- “sis” – The final part is pronounced like “sis” in “sister.”
Explanation:
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects the nails, typically caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds. This condition is commonly seen in toenails but can also affect fingernails. Onychomycosis is characterized by nail thickening, discoloration, and possible nail separation from the nail bed. It can occur when fungi invade the nail, typically due to an environment that is warm, moist, and often from wearing tight shoes or being barefoot in damp areas like pools or showers.
There are several types of onychomycosis, categorized by where the fungus infects the nail. The most common type is distal subungual onychomycosis, which affects the underside of the nail and extends to the free edge of the nail. Another type is white superficial onychomycosis, which is characterized by the appearance of white patches on the surface of the nail.
Risk factors for developing onychomycosis include diabetes, a weakened immune system, poor circulation, and nail trauma. It is also more prevalent in older adults. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, which can be applied topically or taken orally, depending on the severity of the infection. In severe cases, surgical intervention to remove the affected nail might be necessary.