The 4 Lowdown on Nail Fungus

1. What Exactly is Nail Fungus and How Do You Know for Sure That You Have It?

That's an excellent question to begin with. Nail fungus is an infection of the nails commonly caused by a type of fungus called dermatophytes. The infecting agent usually invades the nails through a tiny cut in the skin or through a separation of the hard shell or the nail plate and the underlying connecting tissue or the nail bed.

On the onset of infection, the patient will observe a white or yellow spot underneath the tip of the nail plate. Over time, the discoloration will spread and the entire nail will become darker in color and will likewise thicken. In some cases, the debris that accumulates between the nail plate and the nail bed will cause a foul odor. Infected nails become brittle and crumby and may even fall off in some cases.

If you suspect that you are infected, seek medical opinion right away. Your doctor will know at first glance if it is nail fungus. The debris under your nails will be analyzed in order to determine what exactly caused the infection

2. Does Everybody Get Nail Fungus?

Not everyone is at risk of nail fungal infection. But there are people who are more susceptible to the disease than others. Generally speaking, people who have poor blood circulation and weak immune system are more predisposed to acquiring nail fungus. That is why toenails are more likely to get infected rather than fingernails, apart from the fact that toes are confined in cramped and often damp footwear. The infection is also commonly observed in older adults as opposed to the rest of the population and rarely in children. It is also more evident in males rather than females.

Some people are genetically predisposed to catching nail fungus. If you have a history of fungal infection in your family, chances are likely that you will acquire it too.

3. Is Nail Fungus a Cause For Serious Concern?

Fungal infection can cause your toenails to become too overgrown that it can become painful. But it is more important to note that any infection should be treated at the onset to prevent spreading to other nails and to other parts of the body.

It is, however, a serious concern for diabetics and other sufferers of blood circulation disorders, any infection should be treated with utmost concern as your ability to heal yourself could be impaired. The tiniest infection can prove disastrous if left unchecked.

4. How is Nail Fungus Treated?

Fungal infection is a tough battle to win. It takes diligence to beat the disease. Doctors may recommend a specialized lacquer for mild to moderate fungal infections. On the other hand, they may prescribe oral medication to eradicate infection from within, which may be coupled with a topical solution for application on the infected area. In both cases, the course of treatment is long drawn and requires extra effort to prevent re-infection.

However, cliché as it may seem, the proverbial ounce of prevention still beats a pound of cure. Thus, if you think you are a likely target for nail fungus, then always remember to keep your hands and feet clean and thoroughly dry. Take special care to wear well-ventilated footwear. Mind that nail salon. Make sure that they use sterile instruments. And always wear shoes in such public places as locker rooms. You can never be too sure.