You'll discover that some topics are best left to private places, and admittedly toenail fungus is one of those subjects. Still, this is a condition that impacts millions of people in many countries. If you ever have any type of fungus growth on your body, then you really should see your health care provider or treat it with over the counter medication. Failing to treat toenail fungus will result in a lot more problems including loss of nails. Yes, you can develop toenail fungus on the nails on your fingers, too. However the fungus is more common in toenails simply because the fungus likes dark and relatively damp environs. Also keep in mind that this infection spreads easily from one person to the next, or in community conditions.

Among the first symptoms of toenail fungus is a slight discoloration of the nail. It may show itself to be yellowish or white in color, and people oftentimes think they simply have dirt under their toenails. An obvious giveaway with it, however, is those spots cannot be scrubbed clean. That inability to clean the dirty nail is something to keep in mind. You can cleaning and scraping but the stained appearance is not going to go away. As the infection grows, then the nail may turn entirely blackish or brown in color. There are various treatments available you can find that do not need a prescription.

You will quickly find yourself having more problems to deal with if you don't have the toenail fungus treated. Drastically thinner nails is highly typical with a large number of people, although not everybody experiences it. However, there are people who whose nails thicken. In any case, the nail will turn weaker and may begin breaking off here and there. The result will be loss of the nail completely with serious instances. All the while, as the result of the presence and growth of fungus, you will be able to smell a foul scent.

Toenail fungus could advance to the point where it becomes severe and causes serious discomfort. Keep in mind that the toenail fungus infection is not on the outer nail, but it does start on the nail bed beneath. What happens is the fungus begins metabolizing the toenail because it is consuming the keratin protein within in the toenaail. Toenail fungus can thrive in lighter environments, like fingernails, but it does best beneath toenails because of the lower light. As far as the causes for toenail fungus, ill-fitting shoes worn constantly as well as improper nail care. The best growth conditions can come about as a result of a skin pH that is outside of what is typical.

Sufficient cleanliness of your self and nails, naturally, is the best way to keep this condition at bay. Since this is contagious, then you have to take care in public places that are wet such as swimming areas and locker rooms at gyms and wellness facilities. Treating toenail fungus is possible either topically or through oral medications.