Nail fungus is made up of small organisms that can infect fingernails and toenails. It is very common, the fungus moves in under the nail, the nail provides a safe place for the fungus and protects it while it grows. Factors that raise one's risk of nail fungal infection is Slow growing nails, Tight footwear with crowding of toes, Heavy perspiration etc.

There are major causes of fungal infections
Yeast infections of the skin and nails are generally caused by an organism called Candida alb cans. This organism normally makes a quiet home for itself on your skin and doesn't bother anyone. We all carry this organism on our skin (and in other places such as our mouth, our gastrointestinal tract (gut), and the vagina).

Occasionally Candida albicans multiplies uncontrollably, causing a yeast infection (also known as candidiasis). Yeast infections of the skin can cause a red, itchy rash that may leak fluid. Yeast nail infections can lead to pain and swelling, and may cause the nail to separate from the finger or toe.

Dermatophytes are fungi that only live in dead tissue, such as your nails and dead skin cells. Dematophyte infections can also be called tinea. Dermatophyte infections of the skin can cause a round, scaly rash that may also have blisters. When dermatophytes infect the nails, the nails become thick, split, become dull, and may fall off.

These infections may also affect the skin of the feet. This is also known as athlete's foot.
Infections diagnosed:
First, your health care provider will look closely at your nails. If your health care provider thinks you have nail fungus, he or she may perform a test. Your health care provider will take a small piece of your nail so that it can be examined. It may be examined in the office or sent out to a lab. This is the only way to know if you really have nail fungus.

How to Avoid Nail Fungus:

A. Keep your home shower stall or bathtub clean! It can be infested with fungus…use bleach to ensure it is as clean as possible.

B.If your feet sweat more than normal, make it a habit to change socks multiple times per day to ensure that your feet remain as dry as possible.

C.Wash your athletic shoes habitually, and make sure they are aired out and dry before wearing.

D.forever remembers to keep your feet dry, paying particular attention to keeping the area between your toes clean and dry.