Even though toenail fungus raises all sorts of awful images, it is a serious condition that has be treated quickly. What may be amazing is there are millions of people who get this unsightly fungal infection. If you ever get any type of fungus growth on your body, then you really should see a doctor or treat it with over the counter medication. If this is allowed to continue, then additional problems may appear such as loss of finger and toenails. This fungus also could appear in your fingernails, although it is more common in toenails. Higher humidity with little light promotes the growth of this fungus, and that is the reasin it is called toenail fungus. Toenail fungus also have to be treated because it is contagious not only to other people but can spread in your body.

Some of the initial symptoms of toenail fungus is a slight discoloration of the nail. At first glance you may think your toenails just need to be cleaned due to the discoloring. This discoloration is underneath the nail, but it is impossible to clean. Thus that is one way you can remember the signs of the toenail fungal infection. Truly, regardless of how hard you try, you will not be able to restore the normal appearance of the nail. If you don't treat the nail, you will observe your infected nail eventually grow really dark in color. There are many different treatments available you can find that do not need a docotr's prescription.

If you ignore the toenail fungus, then there will be more complications. There is variation, but the nail itself will turn weaker and even turn thinner. But then again, you will also find some who have their nails thicken from the infection. But no matter what, the nail will turn weaker and may start chipping here and there. Of course sooner or later the entire nail will probably fall off, which is vwet unwanted for anyone. The infected toenail is going to begin to smell awful as the infection develops under the nail.

Unfortunately there is a pain factor related to toenail fungus, and the more serious it becomes the more discomfort there is. What makes it hard to see immediately is the fact that the fungus begins to accumulate and develop underneath the nail. Underneath the nail is so idyllic for this fungus because it in reality feeds oon the protein, keratin, that is part of the nail itself. Remember that the fungus favors dark and moist environments to thrive well. You can help prevent the infection from occurring by taking good care of your nails, and avoid wearing too tight shoes every day. Optimal growth conditions can happen resulting to a skin pH that is outside of what is typical.

Adequate cleanliness of your self and nails, obviously, is the easiest way to keep this condition out of your life. Since this is a communicable condition, you should be careful in places such as public sweat rooms and steam rooms at wellness facilities and similar places. Treating toenail fungus is done either topically or through orally administered medication.