Toenail fungus is surely not a good theme for discussion during dinner. What may be amazing is there are many millions who develop this ugly fungal infection. Since this is a fungus infection that has become more severe, it must be taken seriously and treated. If you would like to keep your toenails, or fingernails, then you must begin treatment for this type of infection right away. This type of fungus is more common in toenails, but you can surely get it under your fingernails, too. The type of fungus involved in this condition has a better habitat in toenails due to the limited light conditions plus the moisture. Also bear in mind that this condition spreads very easily from one person to the next, or in community conditions.

Among the basic symptoms of toenail fungus is a slight discoloration of the nail. In the beginning you may think your toenails just need to be cleaned because of the discoloring. But bear in mind that this growth is on the nail bed, and attempting to clean it is not going to be effective. That inability to clean the dirty nail is something to keep in mind. Really, regardless of how hard you persevere, you will not be able to bring back your toenail's normal appearance. Left untreated, you will notice your affected nail eventually turn very dark in color. There are a variety of products available you can find that do not require that you have a prescription.

You will soon find yourself having more problems to deal with if you don't have the toenail fungus treated. You will find different kinds of symptoms as things become severe, and some people claim to have severe thinning of the infected toenail. Nevertheless, some whose nails thicken. Other symptoms of more severe problems include flaking, cracked, and damaged toenails. The result will be loss of the nail completely with advanced cases. One more indication as the infection becomes more serious is a somewhat foul smell emitted by the affected toenail.

Toenail fungus may develop to the point where it becomes bad and causes serious discomfort. What makes it hard to see immediately is the fact that the fungus begins to amass and develop under the nail. It is the keratin that the toenail fungus lives off of, and that is why the nail gets so weak. Bear in mind that the fungus favors dark areas in order for it to grow well. You can help keep this from developing by taking good care of your nails, and avoid wearing overly tight shoes every day. The best growth conditions could occur due to a skin pH that is outside of what is considered average.

Generally, you could stop toenail fungus from becoming serious in the first place by practicing proper hygiene and nail care. Since toenail fungus is communicable, then you should take care in public areas that are wet such as swimming areas and locker rooms at gyms and fitness clubs. But you can easily and quickly take medication by mouth or apply it directly to the affected toenail.