Want to know a scary word?Try Onychomycosis, which is the scientific name for nail fungus.
It's also sometimes referred to as Tinea unguium.
Nail fungus is comprised of microscopic organisms that lurk around the fingernails and toenails.
Generally, our nails are a very effective barrier against bacterial infection, as well as dirt and fungi.
Sometimes, though, the barrier is broken, and that's when a nail fungus can get established.
Unfortunately, once they've been there a while, they're very hard to remove.
The barrier that is supposed to protect us from infections also makes it harder to treat them when they have settled in.
Nail fungal infections do take a while to develop, and the earlier you treat it, the better your chances of success.
Nail fungi love the dark, warm and sheltered environment that exists underneath your nail.
For women, they have a higher risk of nail fungal infections if they wear nail polish or use acrylic nails.
This is because both of these help to trap moisture and so produce conditions that nail fungi love.
Generally, toenails are most likely to harbor nail fungal infections.
Wearing socks and shoes helps to create an even darker and moister environment for fungi to thrive in.
Some doctors believe that of the 35 million Americans with nail fungal infections, toenails are 6 or 7 times more likely to be infected than fingernails.
A nail fungal infection usually begins at the base of the nail, and over time it spreads upwards.
The nail appears crumbly and is brittle, and often is red or irritated as well.
The nail often starts to grow irregularly as the infection spreads.
The appearance of the nail changes progressively over time.
Other symptoms may include mild discomfort or even sharp pain.
The sides of the nail and the cuticles are sometimes itchy or tender.
If the fungus is well advanced, the nail may start to bleed, and the cuticles detach.
The color of the nail can vary from yellowish-green through to dark yellow or brown.
Often the nail becomes thicker, and has white spots, or irregular holes and grooves.
Generally nail fungal infections aren't very contagious, but they can still be spread from one person to the next.
Always wear something on your feet when walking on wet public surfaces, and avoid allowing your hands or feet to stay moist for a long time.
Prevention is much simpler than cure when it comes to nail fungal infections.
If you seem prone to nail fungi, then keep your nails clean, and cut them regularly.
Don't use plastic or acrylic nails, and avoid nail polish.
If you think you've picked up a nail fungus, soak the affected nails in salt water.
In the early stages, over the counter medications can be effective, but generally don't work for advanced cases.
In that case you may need to visit your doctor for a prescription, although many of these have unpleasant side effects.