Toenail fungus is actually not an appropriate theme for discussion during dinner. There are more people than you realize who develop this condition. Since this is a fungus infection that has become more severe, it needs to be taken seriously and treated. If you let the fungal infection continue, then other problems could come up such as loss of finger and toenails. Yes, you can develop toenail fungus on the nails on your fingers, too. Higher humidity with low light promotes the growth of this fungus, and that is the reasin it is referred to as toenail fungus. One other good reason for arresting the spread is due to its being infectious.

One of the basic symptoms of toenail fungus is a discolored nail. It may look to be yellowish or white in appearance, and many often think they merely have a stain underneath their toenails. This discoloration is beneath the nail, but it is hard to get rid of. That is a notable thing to keep in mind regarding this condition. You can clean and scrape but the discolored appearance does not go away. Most of us know what a smashed nail looks like, it tturns dark or black; that is what the infection will progress into. You can quickly treat this fungus with a medication you can purchase at the drugstore, or maybe have your health care provider treat it.

You are going to soon find yourself having more problems to deal with if this condition is ignored. There is some variation, but the nail itself is going to grow weaker and even turn thinner. But then again, you'll see that there are people whose nails become thicker as a result of the infection. Other indications are flaking of the nail, or the infected toenails are easily chipped and damaged. The result will be loss of the nail completely with advanced cases. All the while, due to the presence and growth of fungus, you will detect an unpleasant odor.

Some other signs include pain which could be a serious problem with toenails and putting on shoes. Remember that the fungal infection infection doesn't occur on the outer nail, but it does start off on the nail bed underneath. It is the keratin that this fungus consumes, and that is the reason the nail turns so weak. Keep in mind that the fungus favors dark places so it can thrive well. You can help prevent toenail fungus from happening by taking good care of your nails, and avoid wearing too tight shoes if you can help it. Likewise, a few toenail fungus sufferers us likely to have a strange skin pH that contributes to the development of this fungus.

The best way to discourage the growth of this fungus is by simple good hygiene. Since this is a contractable condition, you must be careful in places like public saunas and steam rooms at wellness clubs and similar places. But you can easily and quickly take medicine by mouth or apply it locally to the nail.