Some subjects are better left to private places, and admittedly toenail fungus is one of those subjects. However, this is a condition affecting millions of people world wide. Any fungus type that grows enough to develop into an infection has to be taken care of rapidly. If you want to keep your toenails, or fingernails, then you have to apply treatment for this type of infection as soon as possible. Yes, you can contract toenail fungus on the fingernails, also. The type of fungus involved in this condition has a friendlier habitat in toenails due to the limited light conditions as well as the moisture. Toenail fungus also have to be treated because it is contagious not only to other people but can spread in your body.

You can tell when it begins growing because the affected toenail is going to have little spots with a different shade to it. Many may dismiss this because it looks like somewhat dirty toenails. This discoloration is under the nail, but it is impossible to clean. That is a crucial thing to bear in mind regarding this condition. You can cleaning and scraping but the dirty look of the nail won't vanish. Left untreated, you are going to watch your affected nail eventually become very dark in color. You can quickly stop the toenail fungus with a medication you can buy at the pharmacy, or possibly have your doctor take care of the fungus.

If don't treat the fungus right away, then there will be additional complications. Drastically thinner nails is very typical with a lot of people, but not everybody gets to experience it. But then again, there are those whose nails become thicker as a result of the infection. In any case, the toenail will turn weaker and may start breaking here and there. Of course eventually the entire nail will probably fall off, which is extremely undesirable for anyone. All the while, due to the presence and growth of fungus, you will detect a foul smell.

Other signs include pain which can be a genuine problem with toenails and putting on shoes. This type of fungus typically develops on the nail bed, and that is the reason the basic signs are underneath the nail. What takes place is the fungus starts metabolizing the nail because it is consuming the keratin protein contained in the toenaail. Bear in mind that the fungus favors damp and dark places to thrive well. As far as the causes for toenail fungus, tight fitting shoes worn all the time as well as poor nail care. An unusual pH of the skin for an excessive period can also lend to its growth.

The most effective way to discourage the development of this fungus is by simple good hygiene. Since this is contagious, then you must take care in public areas that are wet such as swimming pools and locker rooms at gyms and wellness clubs. Treating toenail fungus can be done either topically or taking oral medications.