Even though toenail fungus raises all sorts of unpleasant images, it is a serious condition that needs to be treated promptly. But, this is a condition that affects millions of people in the world. Since this is a fungus infection that has gotten out of hand, it has to be regarded seriously and treated. If you let the infection continue, then additional problems occur such as loss of finger and toenails. Yes, you can develop toenail fungus on the nails on your fingers, too. The fungus type involved in this condition has a better habitat in toenails because of the limited light conditions plus the moisture. Also remember that this condition spreads easily from person to person, or in community conditions.
You can see when it starts growing because the nail is going to have little spots that have a different color to it. In the beginning you may think your nails just need to be cleaned due to the discoloring. This discoloration is beneath the toenail, but it cannot be cleaned out. That inability to clean the discolored nail is something to keep in mind. You can rubbing hard but the discolored look of the nail does not go away. If the infection is not treated, you will see your infected nail eventually become very dark in color. The clever thing to do at any point is to use an over the counter toenail fungus treatment or even go to your physician.
With the progression of this condition, the toenaial 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. However, there are people who whose nails thicken. Other indications are flaking of the nail, or the nails get chipped easily. The result will be loss of the nail completely with serious instances. The affected nail will noticeably begin to smell awful as the infection becomes more severe underneath the nail.
Toenail fungus can possibly develop to the point where it becomes severe and causes genuine problems. This type of fungus usually grows on the nail bed, and that is the reason the initial signs are observed beneath the nail. What occurs is the fungus begins metabolizing the nail because it is feeding on the keratin protein within in the nail. Remember that the fungus favors damp and dark areas in order for it to develop well. As far as what may possibly cause it, ill-fitting shoes worn constantly as well as poor nail care. An unusual pH of the skin for too long could as well add to its development.
In general, you can prevent toenail fungus from developing in the first place with proper hygiene and nail care. Since toenail fungus is infectious, then you need to take care in public places that are wet such as swimming pools and locker rooms at gyms and wellness facilities. But you can easily and quickly take medication orally or apply it locally to the affected toenail.
You can see when it starts growing because the nail is going to have little spots that have a different color to it. In the beginning you may think your nails just need to be cleaned due to the discoloring. This discoloration is beneath the toenail, but it cannot be cleaned out. That inability to clean the discolored nail is something to keep in mind. You can rubbing hard but the discolored look of the nail does not go away. If the infection is not treated, you will see your infected nail eventually become very dark in color. The clever thing to do at any point is to use an over the counter toenail fungus treatment or even go to your physician.
With the progression of this condition, the toenaial 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. However, there are people who whose nails thicken. Other indications are flaking of the nail, or the nails get chipped easily. The result will be loss of the nail completely with serious instances. The affected nail will noticeably begin to smell awful as the infection becomes more severe underneath the nail.
Toenail fungus can possibly develop to the point where it becomes severe and causes genuine problems. This type of fungus usually grows on the nail bed, and that is the reason the initial signs are observed beneath the nail. What occurs is the fungus begins metabolizing the nail because it is feeding on the keratin protein within in the nail. Remember that the fungus favors damp and dark areas in order for it to develop well. As far as what may possibly cause it, ill-fitting shoes worn constantly as well as poor nail care. An unusual pH of the skin for too long could as well add to its development.
In general, you can prevent toenail fungus from developing in the first place with proper hygiene and nail care. Since toenail fungus is infectious, then you need to take care in public places that are wet such as swimming pools and locker rooms at gyms and wellness facilities. But you can easily and quickly take medication orally or apply it locally to the affected toenail.