You'll discover that some topics are best left to private places, and admittedly toenail fungus is one of those subjects. What may be startling is there are many people who acquire this unsightly fungal infection. Any fungus that grows enough to turn into an infection has to be attended to promptly. If you would like to keep your toenails, or fingernails, then you have to begin treatment for this type of infection right away. Yes, you can contract toenail fungus on the nails on your fingers, too. However it is more common in toenails simply because the fungus likes dark and relatively moist surroundings. Another very good reason for halting the spread is due to its being communicable.

The infected nail is going to acquire a different color to it in the initial stages. In the beginning you may believe your nails merely need to be cleaned due to the stain. This discoloration is underneath the nail, but it is impossible to clean. That is a crucial thing to remember regarding this condition. Truly, regardless of how hard you persevere, you won't be able to bring back the normal appearance of the nail. If you don't treat the nail, you will observe your affected nail eventually grow very dark in color. There are various medications available you can find that do not require that you have a prescription.

If the fungus is allowed to grow, then there will be more problems. There is noticeable change, but the toenail itself will turn weaker and even seem to get thin. On the other hand, there are those who develop thicker toenails because of the infection. But no matter what, the infected toenail will turn weaker and could begin breaking off here and there. If this progresses further, then the infected nail will break or fall out. An additional sign as the infection advances is a somewhat foul scent given off by the infected toenail.

Some other signs include pain which can be a real issue with toenails and wearing shoes. This type of fungus typically develops on the nail bed, and that is the reason the first symptoms can be seen beneath the nail. It is the keratin that this particular fungus feeds off of, and that is why the nail becomes so weak. This fungus may develop in lighter environments, like fingernails, but it does best beneath toenails due to less light. Some of the more usual causes of it include bad nail hygiene or even constantly wearing shoes that fit too tightly. Likewise, some people us likely to develop an odd skin pH that adds to the spread of this fungus.

The easiest way to arrest the development of this fungus is by simple good hygiene. Since toenail fungus is a contractable condition, you should be careful in places such as public saunas and steam rooms at fitness clubs and similar places. But you can easily and quickly take medication orally or apply it topically to the infected nail.