Even though toenail fungus evokes all kinds of unpleasant images, it is a serious infection that has be treated right away. Still, this is a condition affecting millions of people in many countries. Any fungus that grows enough to become an infection must be treated immediately. If this is allowed to continue, then other problems occur such as loss of finger and toenails. This variety of fungus is typically seen in toenails, but it can surely get it under your fingernailsas well. Higher humidity with dim light encourages the growth of this fungus, and that is the reasin it is known as toenail fungus. Another very good reason for stopping the spread is due to its being communicable.

You can tell when it starts growing because the infected nail will have little spots that have a different hue to it. In the beginning you may think your nails simply need to be cleaned due to the discoloring. But remember that this growth is on the nail bed, and any attempts to clean it will not be effective. That inability to clean the dirty nail is something to remember. Really, no matter how hard you persevere, you will not be able to restore your toenail's normal appearance. Many of us know what a smashed nail looks like, it grows dark or black; that is what the toenail fungal infection will develop into. You can promptly stop the toenail fungus with a medication you can purchase at the pharmacy, or possibly have your physician treat it.

If don't treat the fungus right away, then there will be additional complications. You will find a variety of symptoms as things get worse, and there are those who claim to have severe nail thinning. On the other hand, you will also find some who have their nails thicken from the infection. Other signs of more severe problems include toenails that are chipping, cracking and easily damaged. If this progresses further, then the infected nail is going to chip or fall out. One more symptom as the infection becomes more serious is a somewhat foul odor given off by the affected toenail.

Toenail fungus could advance to the point where it becomes painful and causes real discomfort. What makes it difficult to pick out instantly is the fact that the fungus begins to amass and develop underneath the nail. What happens is the fungus starts metabolizing the nail because it is feeding on the keratin protein contained in the toenaail. Bear in mind that the fungus likes dark environments so it can grow well. You can help keep this from developing if you take good care of your nails, and avoid wearing excessively tight shoes if you can help it. Also, some those with this infection could develop an abnormal skin pH that contributes to the growth of this fungus.

In general, you can prevent toenail fungus from forming in the first place with good hygiene and nail care. Since this is a communicable condition, you need to be careful in places like public sweat rooms and steam rooms at health facilities and similar places. Oral and topical skin curatives may be purchased with no prescription that work.