Some subjects are better left to private places, and admittedly toenail fungus is one of those subjects. There are more people than you realize who get this fungal condition. If you ever develop any type of fungus growth on your body, then you really should see your health care provider or treat it with over the counter medication. If you want to keep your toenails, or fingernails, then you need to begin treatment for this type of infection immediately. Yes, you can contract toenail fungus on the fingernails, also. However it is more common in toenails simply because the fungus favors dark and relatively moist environments. Also remember that this condition spreads easily from one person to the next, or in community conditions.

The infected nail will develop a different color to it in the early stages. It may show itself to be yellowish or white in appearance, and people oftentimes think they merely have a stain under their toenails. But remember that this growth is on the nail bed, and trying to clean it will not be effective. That is an essential thing to keep in mind about this condition. You can cleaning and scraping but the discolored appearance does not vanish. Many of us are aware of what a smashed nail looks like, it becomes dark or black; that is what the toenail fungal infection will develop into. There are various products available you can find that do not require that you have a prescription.

If don't treat the fungus right away, then there will be additional problems. There is noticeable change, but the toenail itself will become weaker and even turn thinner. Still, some whose nail become thicker. Other symptoms of more severe problems include flaking, cracked, and damaged toenails. The consequence will be loss of the nail completely with serious cases. The affected toenail will noticeably begin to smell terrible as the infection grows underneath the nail.

Regrettably there is a pain component linked to toenail fungus, and the more severe it becomes the more discomfort there is. Keep in mind that the toenail fungus infection is not on the outer nail, but it does start off on the nail bed underneath. It is the keratin that the toenail fungus lives off of, and that is why the nail turns very weak. Remember that the fungus likes damp and dark environments in order for it to develop well. As far as the causes for it, ill-fitting shoes worn constantly as well as substandard nail care. Likewise, a few toenail fungus sufferers may develop a strange skin pH that adds to the growth of this fungus.

More often than not, you can prevent toenail fungus from developing in the first place with good hygiene and nail care. Since this is contagious, then you must take care in public areas that are wet such as swimming pools and locker rooms at gyms and health facilities. Oral and topical skin remedies can be purchased over the counter that work.