Nail Fungus: Causes, Treatment And Prevention

Nail fungus can occur in both fingernails and toenails. What are the common nail fungus causes and who is at risk and what are the signs of nail fungus? How is it treated and are there things you can do to prevent it? If you want to learn more about nail fungus causes and other useful information, then continue to read on.

What Causes Nail Fungus

Nail fungus is caused by fungi overgrowth either on the nail or under the nail. Fungi thrive in environments that are warm and moist. The fungi that cause nail fungus is the same kind that causes ringworm, jock itch and athlete’s foot.

Nail fungus can be caused by fungi that are already in your body or on your body. Coming in contact with someone who has a fungal infection can result in you getting it too. Furthermore, toenail fungal infections are more common than fingernail ones because you wear shoes regularly. This means they are constantly in a moist and warm environment.

Certain tools can spread fungal infections if they are not cared for properly. These tools include emery boards and nail clippers. This is why you want to make sure tools at a nail salon are sanitized.

Who Is At Risk

There are number of risk factors that can increase your chances of getting nail fungus. If you have diabetes or if you have a disease that results in you having poor circulation or if you’re over the age of 65, then you are likely to develop nail fungus. Other risk factors include wearing fake nails, swimming in a public pool and if you have a nail injury. Having moist fingers and/or toes for extended periods of time can increase your risk and so can have an immune system that is weak.

Signs Of Nail Fungus

There are a number of visible signs, such as scaling under the nail. Another sign is having yellow or white streaks on the infected nail and a crumbling corner of the nail. Other signs include yellow spots on the bottom of the nail, as well as flaking white areas on the surface of the infected nail.

Common signs of having nail fungus is a nail that is distorted and it may lift from the nail bed. If a nail is giving off an odor, then it may be infected. Another very common sign is the infected nail may be thick or brittle.

Treatment

You have a number of ways to treat nail fungus, with one being you can see your doctor and they may prescribe you medication. There are several medications out there. Some of the top ones include Sporanox, Lamisil, and Gris-Peg.

There are over-the-counter treatments too. Keep in mind that some over-the-counter treatments are not that effective, but there are some that are very effective. Also, there are topical solutions you can use.

Prevention

If you want to prevent nail fungus, then you should wash your hands after you have touched infected nails. Make sure you use anti-fungal sprays on a regular basis. After showering, make sure you dry your feet thoroughly and don’t forget to dry between your toes.

Only go to reputable and trustworthy salons if you want to get a pedicure or manicure. Also, try not to walk around public places with no shoes on. Finally, avoid wearing fake nails and don’t wear nail polish on a regular basis. Doing those things and the other tips previously discussed, you will reduce your risk of getting nail fungus.

Now you have a better idea of what causes nail fungus and what you can do to prevent it. You also know what kind of treatment you can receive if you have nail fungus. If you ever experience nail fungus, then you’ll know what you can do.