Nail Fungus, Nail Fungus treatment, Nail Fungus symptoms, Causes of nail fungus

Nail Fungus

Nail fungus occurs when fungus infects one or more of one nails. The nail provides a damp and dark environment for the fungus to grow and that is why it's hard to stop nail fungus. Toenails are more prone to this infection since sweaty shoes and socks keep the nails dark, warm and moist.

Symptoms -

The base of the infected nail becomes red and irritated.
It thickens, becomes brittle, and may develop holes.
The nail starts showing changes, becomes discoloured-yellow -green - brownish; and white spots also at times occur.
Pain around the cuticles is another symptom accompanied by itching, discomfort.
A more advanced stage may be where bleeding starts with detachment of the cuticles and a foul odour.

Causes -

Nail fungus can be contagious. Wet damp places like bathrooms, locker rooms are ideal homes for the fungus to thrive and spread. It can also be passed around on a nail file. So don't share. Nail fungus can spread from one nail to another of the same person.

Nail fungus affects men more as compared to women: and especially those with a family history of this disease.
Walking barefoot in damp public places like swimming pools, gyms etc increases risk of getting infected.
People with nail injury or a damaged nail are more prone.
Diabetic patients or elderly people with a weakened immune system are susceptible to this infection.

Treatment -

Nail fungus can cause permanent damage to your nails. Nail fungus is difficult to treat and repeated infections are common.
Oral antifungal medications help grow a new nail which replaces the infected one. It is a time taking slow process - can take up 12 months also to see results.
Over the counter antifungal nail creams and ointments are often prescribed.
In certain cases, where the infection becomes severe and difficult to treat, it might become necessary to remove the nail altogether.

However the best treatment is prevention.

Prevention -

Keep your nail clean and cut straight across.
Keep toenails dry and well ventilated - take extra care with them.
Change your socks regularly, and dry your shoes well before wearing, if you sweat excessively.
Do not share nail cutters, nail filers.
While going for a manicure or pedicure, be sure that the instruments at the beauty salon are well cleaned and sterilized.
Eat a good diet. A high protein balanced diet will make your nails strong, and more resistant to fungus.
Exercise regularly to strengthen your immune system and increase blood circulation to the feet.
Be careful not to cut the skin around your nails as it might make easy excess of germs to nails.
Never wear others shoes.
Use anti-fungal powder to control sweat, which may promote fungal infections of feet.