Even though toenail fungus invokes all kinds of awful images, it is a serious infection that must be treated quickly. There are a lot more people than you realize who get this condition. Any fungus type that grows enough to develop into an infection must be treated as soon as possible. Failing to administer treatment to toenail fungus will result in a lot more issues including losing your toenails. Yes, you can acquire toenail fungus on the fingernails, also. Higher humidity with little light promotes the growth of this fungus, and that is why it is referred to as toenail fungus. Also bear in mind that this infection spreads easily from one person to the next, or in community conditions.

The nail will develop a different color to it in the beginning stages. Initially you may think your toenails simply need to be cleaned due to the discoloring. An obvious giveaway with it, however, is those spots cannot be scrubbed clean. That inability to clean the dirty nail is something to bear in mind. You can rubbing hard but the dirty look of the nail is not going to disappear. If the infection is not treated, you will see your affected nail eventually turn really dark in color. There are many different medications available you can find that do not need a docotr's prescription.

With the development of this condition, the nail will shortly start to exhibit other symptoms. There is variation, but the toenail itself is going to become weaker and even appear to become thinner. Still, you'll see that there are people who develop thicker toenails because of the infection. Other signs of more serious problems include toenails that are chipping, cracking and easily damaged. If this progresses further, then the infected toenail is going to chip off or fall out. The infected toenail will noticeably start to smell terrible as the infection becomes more severe beneath the nail.

Toenail fungus could develop to the point where it becomes severe and causes serious discomfort. This type of fungus typically develops on the nail bed, and that is the reason the first indications can be seen under the nail. What happens is the fungus starts metabolizing the toenail because it is consuming the keratin protein found in the nail. Toenail fungus can grow in lighter areas, like fingernails, but it does best underneath toenails because of the lower light. In terms of what may possibly cause toenail fungus, tight fitting shoes worn too often as well as poor nail care. An odd pH of the skin for a long time could likewise add to its growth.

Sufficient cleanliness of your self and nails, of course, is the easiest way to keep this condition out of your life. But it is crucial that you realize that this can spread from others directly to you or from wet community conditions. Treating toenail fungus can be done either topically or taking orally administered medication.