Unfortunately nail fungus will not go away on it's own. It will only grow worse the longer you put off treating it. The earlier that you can catch the infection, the better your chance at getting rid of it quicker.

Since the fungus likes damp, dark places under your nail is the perfect place for it to grow.

Some nail fungus takes months or even a year to successfully cure. So it you suspect you may have it do the smart thing and attack it right away!

Nail Fungus, or onychomycosis affects over 30 million Americans alone. It is a disfiguring and oftentimes painful condition as well as embarrassing.

Fungi grow in moist, dark places. Your nails usually actually provide a good barrier against infection - unless they are compromised. If that happens your nails then help shelter and enable the fungus to grow and thrive.

Let's look at some of the causes of nail fungus:

Since it is contagious you can contract it by walking barefoot in public places like gyms, locker rooms, shower stalls, swimming pools, etc.
Perspiration creates a moist condition that attracts fungus.
Wearing heavy, tight shoes or shoes that don't allow much air to circulate.
Choosing to wear cotton or wool socks that don't absorb sweat well.
Artificial nails or nail polish create a dark, sheltered environment that fungus thrives on.
Nail biting - a big "no-no" - creates small injuries around your nail that practically invite the fungus to come in!
Diabetes and other diseases with circulatory problems.

15 Tips:

1. Keep your nails short and cut them straight across.
2. Dry thoroughly - especially between the toes.
3. Wear the right socks that absorb the sweat- a synthetic type.
4. Change socks during the day - more often if you sweat a lot.
5. Wear open- toed shoes or ones that let more air circulate.
6. Take your shoes off throughout the day.
7. Use antifungal spray or powder.
8. Use protective footwear when using public showers, pools, etc.
9. Wear rubber gloves to protect fingernails.
10. Make sure your nail salon sterilizes their tools if you get a manicure or pedicure.
11. Do not wear artificial nails or nail polish.
12. Do not use other peoples emery boards, nail files, etc.
13. Do not pick at the skin around your nails.
14. NO nail biting!
15. Be aware of contagion - disinfect with bleach in the bathtub if someone else in your house has an infection.

Using commonsense and being aware of what can cause nail fungus is your best chance of avoiding it.

There are some everyday products you can try that have various reports of effectiveness. Here's a list of some of the treatments that people have tried to varying degrees of success.

· Vinegar and warm water soak. Especially apple cider vinegar is claimed to help deter growth of bacteria. Use one part vinegar to parts warm water. Soak for 15-20 minutes.

· Vick's Vaporub - applied after you rub a file over your nails (different opinions on how often to use).

· Listerine - applied undiluted - known for it's antiseptic qualities.

· Tea tree oil - soak a cotton ball and dab on infected areas.

· Olive leaf extract - is an antifungal agent.

· Changing your diet to include more probiotics - for good bacteria.
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