Toenail fungus is surely not an acceptable issue for discussion at the dinner table. What may be surprising is there are millions of people who get this unsightly fungal infection. Since this is a fungus infection that has gone out of contro, it needs to be considered seriously and treated. Failing to treat toenail fungus will result in a lot more issues including loss of nails. This variety of fungus commonly develops in toenails, but you could surely get it under your fingernails, too. The fungus type involved in this condition has a more conducive habitat in toenails because of the limited light conditions plus the moisture. Another very good reason for containing the spread is due to its being communicable.

You can see when it starts growing because the affected toenail is going to have tiny spots that have a different shade to it. There are people who may ignore this because it looks like slightly filthy toenails. This discoloration is beneath the toenail, but it can be difficult to clean. Therefore that is one way you can remember the indications of the toenail fungal infection. You can cleaning and scraping but the discolored appearance does not disappear. Left untreated, you will see your infected nail eventually grow really dark in color. The wise thing to do at any point is to use an OTC toenail fungus treatment or even see your physician.

If you let toenail fungus continue to grow, then there will be additional problems. Drastically thinner nails is extremely common with a lot of people, but not everyone experiences it. Nevertheless, some people whose nails thicken. Regardless, the toenail will become weaker and can begin breaking off here and there. Of course pretty soon the entire nail is going to fall off, which is highly undesirable for anyone. All the while, because of the presence and growth of fungus, you will notice an undesirable odor.

Additional symptoms include pain which can be a real issue with toenails and putting on shoes. This type of fungus typically grows on the nail bed, and that is the reason the first signs are under the nail. It is the keratin that this fungus lives off of, and that is why the nail gets so weak. Generally speaking, toenail fungus thrives really well in humid environments far from light. As far as the causes for toenail fungus, tight shoes worn frequently as well as poor nail care. The best growth conditions may happen because of a skin pH that is outside of what is considered average.

Adequate cleanliness of your self and nails, obviously, is the best way to keep this condition out of your life. Since this is contagious, then you should take care in public places that are wet such as swimming areas and locker rooms at gyms and health clubs. Treating toenail fungus can be done either topically or through orally administered medication.