Even though toenail fungus raises all sorts of awful images, it is a serious infection that should be treated straightaway. Still, this is a condition that affects millions of people in the world. Since this is a fungus infection that has gone out of contro, it has to be regarded seriously and treated. If you would like to keep your toenails, or fingernails, then you have to begin treatment for this type of infection right away. Yes, you can develop toenail fungus on the nails on your fingers, too. However it usually appears in toenails simply because the fungus favors dark and relatively moist surroundings. Also keep in mind that toenail fungus spreads easily from person to person, or in community conditions.

You can see when it starts growing because the affected toenail is going to have tiny spots with a different color to it. At first glance you may think your toenails just need to be cleaned because of the discoloring. But keep in mind that this growth is on the nail bed, and any attempts to clean it will not be effective. That inability to clean the infected nail is something you should keep in mind. In truth, no matter how hard you try, you will not be able to bring back the normal appearance of the nail. A lot of us know what a smashed nail looks like, it tturns dark or black; that is what the toenail fungal infection will develop into. There are many different products available you can find that do not require that you have a docotr's prescription.

You will quickly find yourself having more problems to deal with if this condition is ignored. There is noticeable change, but the nail itself will grow weaker and even turn thinner. But then again, you'll see that there are people who have their nails thicken from the infection. Other signs are flaking of the nail, or the infected toenails are easily chipped and damaged. Of course pretty soon the entire nail will probably fall away, which is highly unwanted for anyone. All the while, due to the presence and growth of fungus, you will be able to smell an unpleasant scent.

Some other signs include pain which can be a serious problem with toenails and putting on shoes. This type of fungus usually grows on the nail bed, and that is why the basic signs can be seen under the nail. What occurs is the fungus starts metabolizing the toenail because it is feeding on the keratin protein found in the toenaail. Typically, toenail fungus thrives extremely well in humid places away from light. You can help prevent the infection from occurring by taking good care of your nails, and avoid wearing excessively tight shoes every day. Also, a few people us likely to have a strange skin pH that contributes to the development of this fungus.

Sufficient cleanliness of your self and nails, obviously, is the most effective way to keep this condition out of your life. However it is vital that you realize that the fungus can spread from others directly to you or from wet community conditions. But you can easily and quickly take medication orally or apply it locally to the infected nail.