Nail fungus is an infection of the finger and toe nails, it’s medical term is Onychomycosis. It’s usually more prevalent in the toe nail. There are circumstances that also cause it in the fingernail. It grows in the nail bed. It does not spread to internal organs. This infection is not contagious, nor does it spread between people. This is more prevalent than you think, it happens to both men and women.

Prevention

There are ways to prevent nail infections, keep your feet dry, avoid constant moisture, wear absorbent socks, wear waterproof sandals when in public showers, don’t share nail clippers, files, polish or any other personal item with anyone with a nail infection.

Artificial Nails

This fungus usually occurs with people who wear acrylic nails, the moisture sometimes gets trapped between nail and artificial nails. This type of infection might be worse than others due to the fact that it may take longer to notice then infection.

Causes and Signs of Infection

I can be caused by tiny organisms called dermophytes, which usually live in wet moist areas. These organisms find small spaces between the nail and nail bed. Eventually this will spread through the healthy nail. If you wear shoes with socks it creates the warm moist environment needed for growth of this infection.

Eventually after the infection has spread, the nails starts to become yellow, or discolored, spots can appear, or thickening, then crumbling, breaking and irregular growth of the nail. At this point it is recommended to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The doctor will send a clipping of the infected nail for evaluation.

Treatment of Nail Fungus

There are over the counter treatments, these are usually ineffective because the infection is in the nail bed and cannot penetrate the nail to kill the fungus. There are also prescription liquids and pills. The liquids are usually applied like a nail polish and stop the spread of infection but it can take up to a year to see results. The change is visible with the new growth nails. The oral prescription are that must be taken for months in order to be effective. If taking oral medication there are side effects to consider which can include; fatigue (read more on how to get rid of fatigue), nausea, yellow eyes, bleeding etc. Your doctor will take blood tests while taking medication. While treating a nail infection it is best to avoid nail polish and artificial nails.