Toenail fungus is surely not an appropriate subject for discussion when you're eating. However, this is a condition that impacts millions of people in many countries. Any type of fungus that grows enough to turn into an infection needs to be attended to immediately. If you are interested to keep your toenails, or fingernails, then you must begin treatment for this type of infection ASAP. This variety of fungus commonly develops in toenails, but it can surely get it under your fingernails, too. Higher humidity with little light promotes the growth of this fungus, and that is why it is called toenail fungus. Toenail fungus also needs to be treated because it is contagious not only to others but can spread in your body.

Among the basic symptoms of toenail fungus is nail discoloration. There are people who may disregard this because it seems like slightly filthy toenails. An obvious giveaway with it, however, is those spots cannot be scrubbed clean. That inability to clean the dirty nail is something to remember. You can clean and scrape but the dirty look of the nail does not go away. Most of us know what a smashed nail looks like, it becomes dark or black; that is what the infection will develop into. You can quickly treat the toenail fungus with a medication you can purchase at the pharmacy, or perhaps have your health care provider treat the infection.

If you let toenail fungus continue to grow, then there will be more complications. There are different kinds of symptoms as things become more serious, and there are those who experience serious nail thinning. But, some people whose nail become thicker. In any case, the nail will turn weaker and may start chipping here and there. If this continues further, then the infected nail is going to chip or fall out. One more indication as the infection advances is a slightly foul scent emitted by the affected toenail.

Other signs include pain which can be a very real problem with toenails and putting on shoes. Keep in mind that the fungal infection infection does not take place on the outer nail, but it does start off on the nail bed underneath. Underneath the toenail is so idyllic for this fungus because it really feeds oon the protein, keratin, that is part of the nail itself. Toenail fungus can thrive in lighter areas, like fingernails, but it does best under toenails due to the lower light. You can help prevent toenail fungus from occurring if you take good care of your nails, and avoid wearing too tight shoes all the time. An unusual pH of the skin for too long could also add to its growth.

Sufficient cleanliness of your self and nails, of course, is the most effective way to keep this condition from developing. Since toenail fungus is contagious, then you have to take care in public places that are wet such as swimming pools and locker rooms at gyms and health facilities. But you can easily and quickly take medication by mouth or apply it directly to the infected nail.