Even though toenail fungus raises all kinds of awful images, it is a serious infection that needs to be treated promptly. There are a lot more people than you may think who develop this condition. Any fungus type that grows enough to become an infection must be attended to rapidly. Failing to administer treatment to toenail fungus will result in a lot more issues including losing your toenails. This type of fungus is more common in toenails, but you could definitely get it under your fingernails, too. However the fungus usually appears in toenails simply because the fungus prefers dark and relatively humid environments. Another very good reason for arresting the spread is due to its being communicable.

One of the first symptoms of toenail fungus is a discolored nail. Some people may dismiss this because it looks like somewhat filthy nails. This discoloration is under the toenail, but it is hard to get rid of. That is an essential thing to keep in mind regarding this condition. Really, no matter how hard you try, you are not going to be able to restore the normal appearance of the nail. As the infection becomes more serious, then the toenail could turn completely black or brownish in color. There are a lot of treatments available you can find that do not need a prescription.

You will quickly find yourself having more complications to deal with if you don't have the toenail fungus treated. There is some variation, but the toenail itself is going to grow weaker and even appear to become thinner. But, in true variability with signs, some people are going to have their nails become thicker rather than thinner. Other indications are flaking of the nail, or the infected toenails become chipped or damaged easily. If this continues further, then the infected nail is going to chip off or fall out. The affected nail will noticeably start to smell awful as the infection develops under the nail.

Unfortunately there is a pain component tied to toenail fungus, and the more severe it becomes the more pain there is. What makes it difficult to spot immediately is the fact that the fungus begins to amass and develop underneath the nail. Underneath the nail is so idyllic for this fungus because it actually feeds oon the protein, keratin, that is part of the nail itself. Typically, toenail fungus thrives very well in humid places far from light. You can help prevent this from developing by taking good care of your nails, and avoid wearing excessively tight shoes if you can help it. Likewise, a few toenail fungus sufferers us likely to experience an odd skin pH that adds to the growth of this fungus.

Sufficient cleanliness of your self and nails, naturally, is the easiest way to keep this condition at bay. However it is important to are aware that the fungus can spread from other people directly to you or from wet community conditions. Treating toenail fungus is possible either topically or taking drugs that have to be taken orally.