A Nail Fungus Infection Overview.

What is it? An fungal infection of your nails is known in the medical world as Onychomycosis. You will recognize this as a layperson as a yellow crumbly infection under your nail, that may cause your nail to disfigure and become discolored. The tell-tale starting sign is a small discolored spot under your nail, which if left untreated, will spread to the rest of your nail. This type of infection accounts for 50% of all nail infections, and is often caused by a continued exposure to a moist warm environment around the nail. How is an infection contracted? Nail fungus infections are caused by small organisms getting under your nail, maybe through a small cut or if the nail has been damaged by an injury. The organisms are often a mould or yeast that will be able to thrive in a dark environment; you will probably recognize this process in the cultivation of mushrooms, which are grown in a dark and moist environment. Nail fungus infections are more common in the toenails. This is simply due to the fact is that your toenails spend the majority of the time in socks and shoes, though they can also occur in your fingernails too. How is an infection treated? A fungal infection can be treated in a number of ways. A doctor may prescribe you an oral medication. Other alternatives available to your medical practitioner are a medicated cream or solution which is applied directly on to the infection. Nail fungus can also be treated with the application of a specialist medicated nail varnish. To find out more about these treatments you must consult with a qualified medical specialist. There are also various herbal / alternative treatments available, including (but not limited to) vinegar. How can I prevent a nail fungus infection? The best way to prevent a nail fungus infection is to have a good hygiene routine for your fingernails and toenails. When you trim your nails make sure they are clean first, and cut the nail straight across. Keep good practice with keeping your hands and feet clean, if you are prone to toe nail fungus you can look at obtaining specialist socks that aren't made from cotton, which can tend to retain moisture. Additionally if you play a lot of sport and find your feet sweating heavily in your trainers, make sure you wash and clean your feet afterwards, if you still have problems you may wish to look at investing in a different pair of trainers which may allow your feet to 'breath' more.