What Is Toenail Fungus?

Foot specialists estimate that approximately seven to eight million people in the United States suffer from toenail fungus

. Unfortunately, only a quarter of these actually see a doctor for treatment

* Causes

Toenail Fungus is quite frankly ugly and embarrassing .For this reason sufferers often avoid social situations that call for baring their feet such as summer pool parties or even strolling on the beach.

The condition is technically referred to as Onychomycosis and is caused by microorganisms called derematophytes, which are quite similar to those that cause athletes foot. These organisms are also present on your clothes and in your shoes, the gym, and even your organically fortified garden soil. In fact they are practically unavoidable.

* Symptoms

One or more of your toenails will begin to look a bit abnormal. Colour changes can appear, such as long, yellowish streaks or white patches that can be scrapped off.

The nail can lift and begin to separate from the nail bed, thicken, and become brittle and flaky. It can also become disported in shape and begin to twist.

This fungus can be transmitted easily to your fingernails, or to other members of your family for that matter. if you constantly pick at your toes without washing your hands afterwards. Yes it sounds disgusting, but lots of people do it unintentionally.

* Treatment

In order to treat toenail fungus, you have to get underneath the nail, which can be difficult. The fungus lives on the soft skin of the nail bed.

Toenail fungus is difficult to treat. A foot specialist may decide to prescribe a topical or oral medication to combat the fungus, or perhaps even remove the diseased nail, depending on the severity of the infection.

* Prevention

Since toenail fungus is infectious, take exactly the same precautions as you would with athletes foot and wear appropriate footwear particularly when in public bathing places. Observe a proper daily foot hygiene, keep your feet fresh and dry with foot powder and clean changes of socks/hosiery; wear good-fitting, breathable shoes; and never trim toenails too close to the skin or cut the skin.

In addition do take extra care when in communal areas such as sports centres, or swimming pools.

Toenail Fungus can be a distressing and uncomfortable condition and requires that you take urgent action once identified.

Obviously prevention is best so take heed of the above suggestions. If present, it is vital that you take immediate advice from a foot specialist

by: Eamon Greville

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