Even though toenail fungus evokes all kinds of unpleasant images, it is a serious infection that needs to be treated immediately. However, this is a condition affecting millions of people in many countries. Any type of fungus that grows enough to turn into an infection needs to be treated as soon as possible. If this is allowed to continue, then additional problems occur such as loss of finger and toenails. This fungus likewise may occur in your fingernails, although it is more common in toenails. Higher humidity with dim light boosts the growth of this fungus, and that is the reasin it is referred to as toenail fungus. One other good reason for containing the spread is due to its being communicable.

Some of the initial symptoms of toenail fungus is nail discoloration. At first glance you may think your nails merely need to be cleaned due to the discoloration. This discoloration is under the nail, but it can be difficult to clean. Therefore that is one way you can remember the signs of the toenail fungal infection. You can cleaning and scraping but the dirty appearance won't go away. Left untreated, you will watch your affected nail eventually turn very dark in color. There are a variety of products available you can find that do not need a docotr's prescription.

You will quickly find yourself having more problems to deal with if you don't have the toenail fungus treated. There is variation, but the toenail itself will turn weaker and even turn thinner. Still, you will also find some whose nails become thicker as a result of the infection. Other indications are flaking of the nail, or the nails are easily chipped and damaged. If this progresses some more, then the infected toenail will chip off or fall out. All the while, as the result of the presence and growth of fungus, you will be able to smell an undesirable scent.

Some other signs include pain which may be a serious issue with toenails and putting on shoes. What makes it tough to pick out right away is the fact that the fungus begins to accumulate and grow under the nail. What takes place is the fungus begins metabolizing the toenail because it is consuming the keratin protein found in the nail. Remember that the fungus prefers dark and moist environments in order for it to thrive well. You can help prevent toenail fungus from occurring if you take good care of your nails, and avoid wearing overly tight shoes all the time. Also, a few toenail fungus sufferers could experience an odd skin pH that adds to the growth of this fungus.

In general, you can arrest toenail fungus from becoming serious in the first place with proper hygiene and nail care. However it is crucial that you realize that this can spread from others directly to you or from wet community conditions. Treating toenail fungus is possible either topically or taking drugs that have to be taken orally.