Even though toenail fungus invokes all sorts of unpleasant images, it is a serious condition that must be treated straightaway. However, this is a condition that affects millions of people in many countries. Since this is a fungus infection that has gotten out of hand, it has to be considered seriously and treated. If you would like to keep your toenails, or fingernails, then you have to administer treatment for this type of infection right away. Yes, you can develop toenail fungus on the fingernails, also. However it is more common in toenails simply because the fungus likes dark and relatively humid environments. Another very good reason for stopping the spread is due to its being contagious.

Among the first symptoms of toenail fungus is a slight discoloration of the nail. Initially you may believe your toenails simply need to be cleaned due to the discoloring. But keep in mind that this growth is on the nail bed, and attempting to clean it won't be effective. Thus that is one way you can remember the symptoms of it. You can rubbing hard but the dirty look of the nail is not going to disappear. A lot of us have all seen what a smashed nail looks like, it becomes dark or black; that is what this will develop into. There are a lot of medications available you can find that do not require a docotr's prescription.

If don't treat the fungus right away, then there will be additional complications. Drastically thinner nails is extremely typical with a large number of people, although not everyone gets to experience it. But then again, you will also find some who develop thicker toenails because of the infection. Other signs are flaking of the nail, or the nails are easily chipped and damaged. The consequence will be loss of the nail completely with severe instances. The affected toenail will start to smell terrible as the infection grows beneath the nail.

Other symptoms include pain which may be a very real problem with toenails and wearing shoes. This type of fungus typically develops on the nail bed, and that is why the initial symptoms are observed underneath the nail. Under the toenail is so idyllic for this fungus because it really consumes the protein, keratin, that is part of the nail itself. Remember that the fungus favors dark and moist environments to thrive well. As far as what may possibly cause it, ill-fitting shoes worn too often as well as poor nail care. Optimal growth conditions could come about because of a skin pH that is outside of what is normal.

In general, you can prevent toenail fungus from developing in the first place with good hygiene and nail care. However it is crucial that you realize that this can spread from other people directly to you or from wet community conditions. Treating toenail fungus is done either topically or with oral medications.