Even though toenail fungus brings up all sorts of unpleasant images, it is a serious infection that needs to be treated right away. What may be surprising is there are many millions who acquire this ugly fungal infection. Since this is a fungus infection that has become more severe, it must be considered seriously and treated. If you let the fungal infection continue, then additional problems may appear such as loss of finger and toenails. This fungus likewise may develop in your fingernails, although it typically appears in toenails. Higher humidity with low light promotes the development of this fungus, and that is why it is known as toenail fungus. Toenail fungus also should be treated because it is communicable not only to other people but can spread out in your body.

You can tell when it begins growing because the nail is going to have tiny spots that have a different hue to it. Some people may ignore this because it seems like slightly grimy nails. A telltale giveaway with it, however, is those spots cannot be removed. That is a notable thing to remember concerning this condition. You can cleaning and scraping but the stained appearance does not disappear. If you don't treat the nail, you will notice your affected nail eventually grow very dark in color. There are many different medications available you can find that do not require a prescription.

If the fungus is allowed to grow, then there will be additional complications. Drastically thinner nails is very common with a lot of people, although not everyone has that happen. Nevertheless, in true variability with symptoms, some people will have their nails become thicker rather than thinner. Other indications are flaking of the nail, or the nails become chipped or damaged easily. If this continues on, then the affected nail will chip or fall out. The infected nail is going to begin to smell awful as the infection develops beneath the toenail.

Some other signs include pain which can be a genuine issue with toenails and wearing shoes. This type of fungus actually grows on the nail bed, and that is the reason the first signs are observed under the nail. What happens is the fungus begins metabolizing the nail because it is consuming the keratin protein contained in the toenaail. Typically, toenail fungus thrives extremely well in moist environments away from light. Some of the more typical causes of the infection can be bad nail hygiene or even constantly wearing shoes that don't fit properly. In addition, a few those with this infection could experience an unusual skin pH that adds to the development of this fungus.

Generally, you could arrest toenail fungus from forming in the first place with proper hygiene and nail care. Since the fungus is a contractable condition, you should be careful in places such as public saunas and steam rooms at fitness clubs and similar places. Treating toenail fungus is done either topically or with drugs that have to be taken orally.