How Nail Fungal Infections Occur

Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is a common problem, affecting an estimated 40 million Americans. Most susceptible are men, individuals over forty, athletes, women who use acrylic nails, and those with a family history of infections or conditions which affect circulation, such as diabetes. Some individuals may also have inherited tendencies which make them more susceptible to developing nail fungus. The culprits are called dermatophytes, and they're found virtually everywhere in environment. These are same organisms that cause athlete's foot - a common skin infection of feet.

Symptoms of a fungal nail infection typically begin with nail discoloration. Fungal dermatophytes convert healthy nail into keratin debris, upon which they live and feed. As keratin debris collects beneath nail(s), they become thickened and may cause mild to severe discomfort, depending on degree of infection. In advanced cases, nails become crumbly and may lift completely off nail bed. As nail fungus advances it can become a social as well as a cosmetic problem. People with nail fungus will often shy away from pool or beach activities to avoid embarrassment of ugly nails. For women in particular, fingernail fungus creates an even more serious social embarrassment. Hiding problem behind false nails can make matters worse, as moisture becomes trapped between acrylic surface, cement and normal nail.

Changes You Can Make in Your Daily Routine to Help Prevent A Nail Fungus Infection:

·Avoid going barefoot in public places, especially health clubs, swimming pools and spas

·Dry toenails thoroughly after bathing or showering: Fungus thrives on moisture and warmth

·Don't wear shoes that fit too tightly and don't wear same shoes every day; Throw away old shoes that may harbor fungus

·Regularly treat insides of shoes with antifungal spray (an athlete?s foot spray will work well)

·Don't let athlete's foot infections go untreated, which can spread to nails where it is much more difficult to get rid of

·Avoid injuring nails; dermatophytes look for opportunities to invade through damaged cuticle margins. Wear protective shoes when playing sports or doing construction projects and gloves when gardening or doing other chores that may lead to nail injury or irritation