<- return to articles

Toenail Fungus – Cause, Treatment and Prevention Tips

Toenail fungus can be one of the most difficult diseases to get rid of, yet it affects over 11% of the population.  It is one of the most common diseases that doctors treat.  There are a wide variety of reasons that people become infected with this fungus.  Abnormal pH levels in the skin, poor hygiene, immune system issues and trauma to the nail are all common reasons why one might find oneself infected with toenail fungus.

 Most toenail fungus is made up of microscopic organisms, called fungi, that are part of the dermatophytes group, though there are also other types that can come from yeast and mold. These fungi do not need sunlight to live and they thrive in places that are dark, warm and moist.  These fungi can invade fingernails as well as toenails, but since toenails are usually in shoes where it is dark and warm, toenail fungus is far more common. The conditions in the shoe are ideal for fungi to grow and thrive. Blood circulation is also a factor, your fingers have better circulation and that allows the immune system to eliminate infections in the fingers more easily.

There are many ways to deal with toenail fungus, there are home remedies and one can purchase an anti fungal nail solution from many sources. These can be quite successful in treating the disease, depending on the type of fungus one has and how deep the infection is.  If the fungus one is infected with is especially tough or the infection is deep in the nail bed, then it can take a long time to get rid of the infection.  A physician should be contacted if the infection will not go away or if one has diabetes, a history of cellulitis, or has pain and discomfort from the infection.  A doctor may put a person on oral medications or other topical ointments and medications to treat the infection.  Surgery and/or laser surgery may also be needed if the infection is severe or extremely painful.

The best cure for toenail fungus is prevention.  There are a number of ways one can prevent the fungus from finding its way to your toenails just by doing the following:  Keep your nails short, dry and clean, wear socks that keep your feet dry, add antifungal sprays and powders to your socks, feet and shoes, do not go barefoot in public places, avoid artificial nails and keep your hands clean.  Following these tips will help you keep your nails fungus free.