Nail Fungus

What Causes Nail Fungus, Are Nail Fungal Infections Contagious and What To Do If You Become Infected

Nail fungus, also known as Tinea unguium or sometimes Onychomycosis, consists of tiny microscopic organisms that reside around your fingernails and toenails. Most of the time, our finger nails and toe nails act as effective barriers such as fungi, dirt and bacteria. However, even though our nails are usually very good at resisting superficial infections from taking over, ocassionally they are overwhelmed. Once fungus breaks through the natural the barrier of resistance, they tend to settle in for the long term. To make things worse, the natural barrier that will normally keep us from becoming infected also makes it difficult to treat the infections that broke through.

Nail fungus infections tend to develop slowly, and can be very difficult to treat. This is because once they've made it behind the barrier of protection, they can be very hard to reach.

Over thirty-five million people are now affected by nail fungal infections in the USA. This type of infection thrives in a warm, dark environment under the nail. Women who are accustomed to wearing nail polish and acrylic nails are much more likely to develop a fungal infection than men. The reason is because plastic or acrylic nails has a tendency to trap moisture and can create a dark, moist environment where fungus tend to thrive.

Most nail fungal infections first appear in the toe nails. Shoes and socks keep our feet enclosed in a dark and moist environment that is inviting for toe nail fungus. In reality, some doctors believe that the nails are at least 6-7 times more susceptible to developing a nail fungus infection. Fungal infections begin at the base of your nail and then will spread upwards. Your nail could become brittle and crumbly in appearance, red and irritated or both. As the infection spreads, the nail may begin to grow abnormally. The nail may also begin to change in appearance, possibly turning yellow.

How does it feel to have a nail fungus infection? If you've ever had a nail fungal infection, you'll likely instantly recognize the many symptoms. These symptoms can range from mild discomforts to sharp stabbing pain. Other well known symptoms include tenderness of the skin around the sides of the nails and cuticles and itchiness. In more severe cases, the nail may actually begin to bleed and the cuticles have been known to become detached. The nail will change color to a yellowish green tint, or sometimes to a dark yellow or brown. The nails can become thick and may develop white spots. The nail itself might develop irregular grooves, cracks, splitting and holes.

Although not usually common, nail fungus infections have been known to be contagious. It's possible for these fungal organisms to spread from one person to another. You should try to keep from walking barefoot on wet public surfaces, such as public showers or swimming pool, unless you wear flip flops. Avoid keeping moisture on your feet or hands for long periods of time. Prevention is the key to avoiding nail fungal infections.

If you think you could be succeptible to toe nail fungus infections, a good rule of thumb is to keep your nails trimmed regularly and keep them clean. Stay away from acrylic or plastic nails and keep both your feet and hands dry. If you suspect that you could be infected already, begin taking action immediately by soaking your nails in salt water.

Tea tree oil is a popular remedy, but is mostly unproven. Medications bought online or over the counter can be helpful, but might not be strong enough for more advanced cases. There are oral medications that your doctor can prescribe that can help cure in more serious cases, although these could have unpleasant side effects.