Toenail fungus is actually not an appropriate issue for discussion during dinner. There are more people than you may think who contract this type of fungal infection. If you ever have any type of fungus growth on your body, then you really have to see a doctor or treat it with over the counter medication. If you are interested to keep your toenails, or fingernails, then you need to administer treatment for this type of infection straightaway. Yes, you can develop toenail fungus on the fingernails, as well. Higher humidity with little light encourages the growth of this fungus, and that is why it is called toenail fungus. Another very good reason for halting the spread is due to its being infectious.

Among the basic symptoms of toenail fungus is a slight discoloration of the nail. At first glance you may believe your toenails merely have to be cleaned because of the discoloration. This discoloration is underneath the toenail, but it cannot be cleaned out. So that is one way you can remember the symptoms of the infection. You can clean and scrape but the discolored appearance does not disappear. Most of us have all seen what a smashed nail looks like, it grows dark or black; that is what this will develop into. You can promptly treat the infection with a medication you can purchase at the drugstore, or maybe have your health care provider treat it.

With the continued growth of the fungal infection, the nail will quickly start to show other signs of infection. There are a variety of symptoms as things become more serious, and some people say they experience severe thinning of the infected toenail. Still, there are those whose nails become thicker as a result of the infection. Other indications are flaking of the nail, or they are easily chipped and damaged. If this goes on further, then the infected nail is going to snap off or fall out. The affected nail will noticeably begin to smell awful as the infection becomes more severe under the toenail.

Other signs include pain which can be a serious issue with toenails and putting on shoes. What makes it difficult to pick out at once is the fact that the fungus starts to accumulate and grow under the nail. Under the nail is so idyllic for this fungus because it really feeds oon the protein, keratin, that is part of the nail itself. In general, toenail fungus thrives extremely well in damp places far from light. Some of the more typical causes of it are terrible nail hygiene or even constantly wearing shoes that are too tight. In addition, a few people may have an unusual skin pH that adds to the spread of this fungus.

Sufficient cleanliness of your self and nails, obviously, is the easiest way to keep this condition from developing. Since this is communicable, then you need to take care in public areas that are wet such as swimming areas and locker rooms at gyms and fitness clubs. Treating toenail fungus is done either topically or through drugs that have to be taken orally.