Even though toenail fungus invokes all sorts of awful images, it is a serious infection that has to be treated immediately. What may be startling is there are millions of people who contract this unpleasant fungal infection. If you ever develop any type of fungus growth on your body, then you really should see your health care provider or treat it with OTC drugs. If you let the infection continue, then other problems may appear such as loss of finger and toenails. This fungus also could occur in your fingernails, although it is more common in toenails. Higher humidity with little light promotes the development of this fungus, and that is the reason it is called toenail fungus. Another very good reason for stopping the spread is due to its being contagious.

Your nail will have a different colour initially. It may become yellow or white, and people oftentimes think they just have dirt under their nails. As the discoloration is developing beneath your nails, it is not easy to clean it. Thus that is one way you can remember the signs of the toenail fungal infection. Really, regardless of how hard you try, it is not possible to bring back your toenail's normal appearance. As the infection becomes more serious, then the nail could possibly turn entirely black or brown. There are a variety of medications available you can find that do not need a doctor's prescription.

You will be left with more problems if you left this condition untreated. There is some variation, but the toenail itself is going to turn weaker and even seem to get thin. On the other hand, there are those whose nails become thicker as a result of the infection. Other symptoms of this infection include chipped or cracked toenails which can be damaged easily. If this goes on some more, the infected nail may eventually break or fall out. One more sign as the infection turns more severe is a more or less foul scent emitted by the affected toenail.

Toenail fungus can possibly continue to the point where it gets severe and causes serious discomfort. What makes it difficult to pick out instantly is the fact that the fungus begins to amass and grow beneath the nail. Under the toenail is so idyllic for this fungus because it really feeds on the protein, keratin, which is part of the nail itself. Keep in mind that the fungus likes dark places to develop well. You can help keep this from developing by taking good care of your nails, and avoid wearing too tight shoes if you can help it. Likewise, a few those with this infection could possibly have an abnormal skin pH that adds to the growth of this fungus.

More often than not, you can stop toenail fungus from forming in the first place through good hygiene and nail care. Since this is a communicable condition, you have to be careful in places such as public sweat rooms and steam rooms at fitness clubs and similar places. Treating toenail fungus is possible either topically or with oral medications.