Toenail fungus is surely not an acceptable theme for discussion when you're eating. What may be startling is there are millions of people who contract this unpleasant fungal infection. Since this is a fungus infection that has gone out of contro, it has to be regarded seriously and treated. If you let the infection continue, then additional problems could come up such as loss of finger and toenails. Yes, it is possible to develop toenail fungus on the nails on your fingers, also. The type of fungus involved in this condition has a more conducive habitat in toenails due to the limited light conditions and the moisture. Toenail fungus also must be treated because it is infectious not only to others but can spread out in your body.

You can see when it starts growing because the nail will have little spots with a different hue to it. It may show itself to be yellowish or white in color, and others oftentimes think they merely have a stain beneath their toenails. This discoloration is beneath the toenail, but it is impossible to clean. And so that is one way you can remember the signs of the toenail fungal infection. Really, regardless of how hard you try, you are not going to be able to bring back the normal appearance of the nail. Many of us have all seen what a smashed nail looks like, it becomes dark or black; that is what the infection will advance into. You can promptly treat the infection with a medication you can buy at the drugstore, or maybe have your health care provider treat the fungus.

With the development of this condition, the toenaial is going to shortly start to show other signs of trouble. There are different kinds of symptoms as things become severe, and some people experience having severe toenail thinning. However, in true variability with symptoms, some people are going to have their nails become thicker rather than thinner. In any case, the nail will turn weaker and may start chipping here and there. If this progresses some more, then the infected toenail is going to break or fall out. The affected nail is going to start to smell badly as the infection develops under the nail.

Additional signs include pain which may be a genuine problem with toenails and wearing shoes. What makes it challenging to see at once is the fact that the fungus starts to accumulate and develop underneath the nail. Under the toenail is so perfect for this fungus because it really eats the protein, keratin, that is part of the nail itself. Toenail fungus can develop in lighter places, like fingernails, but it does best beneath toenails because of the lower light. Some of the more usual causes of the infection can be poor nail hygiene or even constantly wearing shoes that fit too tightly. An unusual pH of the skin for a long time may as well add to its development.

The best way to discourage the growth of this fungus is by simple good hygiene. Since toenail fungus is communicable, then you have to take care in public places that are wet such as swimming pools and locker rooms at gyms and fitness clubs. But you can easily and quickly take drugs orally or apply it locally to the infected nail.