Even though toenail fungus brings up all kinds of awful images, it is a serious condition that needs to be treated promptly. There are a lot more people than you realize who contract this fungal condition. If you ever develop any type of fungus growth on your body, then you really have to see a physician or treat it with non-prescription medication. If you let the fungal infection continue, then additional problems may appear such as loss of finger and toenails. This fungus likewise can occur in your fingernails, although it usually develops in toenails. However it usually appears in toenails just because the fungus favors dark and relatively humid environs. Toenail fungus also have to be treated because it is infectious not only to other people but can spread in your body.

The nail is going to acquire a different hue to it in the initial stages. Some people may ignore this because it looks like somewhat dirty toenails. But bear in mind that this growth is on the nail bed, and any attempts to get rid of it is not going to be effective. That inability to clean the discolored nail is one thing to bear in mind. That is something you are not going to be able to do with any type of scraping action. If the infection is not treated, you will see your affected nail eventually grow really dark in color. The clever thing to do at any point is to use an OTC toenail fungus treatment or even go to your doctor.

If you let toenail fungus continue to grow, then there will be more complications. Drastically thinner nails is extremely typical with many people, even though not everybody experiences it. However, in true variability with signs, quite a few people will experience a thickening, not thinning, of their nails. Other symptoms of more severe problems include toenails that are chipping, cracking and easily damaged. The consequence will be loss of the nail totally with serious instances. One more symptom as the infection becomes more serious is a more or less foul scent emitted by the infected toenail.

Toenail fungus could continue to the point where it becomes severe and causes genuine discomfort. What makes it tough to spot instantly is the fact that the fungus starts to collect and grow beneath the nail. It is the keratin that the toenail fungus consumes, and that is why the nail becomes very weak. In general, toenail fungus thrives really well in damp places away from light. In terms of what could cause it, tight shoes worn frequently as well as poor nail care. An odd pH of the skin for an excessive period could as well contribute to its development.

In general, you can arrest toenail fungus from forming in the first place through proper hygiene and nail care. Since this is contagious, then you should take care in public places that are wet such as swimming pools and locker rooms at gyms and fitness clubs. Oral and topical skin remedies can be purchased with no prescription that work.