Nail Fungus infections strike over 35 million people in the
United States alone. Do not be ashamed of getting this
fungus, as it is not an indicator of bad hygiene.

What can you do if infected by nail fungus?

Unfortunately, nail fungus can be very difficult to get rid of. And the nail itself, which makes a great barrier to keep infection out, works in reverse once infection is present by holding it in. Some of the prescription oral medication used to treat it comes with undesirable and even alarming side effects, so the degree of the infection has a great deal to do with what kind of treatment might be best in each case. There are a variety of over-the-counter topical medications available for nail fungus, but the results vary. There's even a topical prescription medication that you paint on like nail polish, but again, there's no guarantee that it will work in each individual case.

Even when the prescribed or recommended treatment is effective, it's not an overnight fix or a miracle cure. Many remedies take several weeks to show any improvements at all, and it's not uncommon for a treatment to take several months before the nail fungus appears to be completely gone. So the good news is, with patience and the right treatment you can get rid of nail fungus. The bad news? Nail fungus has a high rate of recurrence, so someone who's finally gotten rid of a fungal infection will have to be extra diligent to prevent it from coming back.

Most nail fungus infections remain mild, causing spots, minor discoloration and thickened nails. But it's not just a cosmetic problem, no matter how minor the symptoms, there's still a live infection under the nail. And the infection can be painful if left unchecked, as well as leave lasting damage to the nail. Those with diabetes, poor circulation, or compromised immune systems should not try to self-treat, but seek the treatment of a physician who's well aware of their other ailments. A nail fungus infection in those individuals can make it easier for other types of infections to set in, and because their ability to heal is lessened, very serious complications can result, including infection that spreads to other parts of the body.

Others who've just discovered that first white or yellow spot under the nail have more options. Over-the-counter topical medications are readily available, with mixed results. Your doctor may be able to recommend some home remedies that seem to work as well, and in some cases better, than the treatments you can buy in the store. But if your doctor feels prescription medicine is warranted, there are choices there, too, from topical treatments to long-term oral medication, and even removal of the infected nail so that a healthy nail can grow in its place.

It's much easier to prevent nail fungus than it is to cure it. Eat right and exercise for overall health and good circulation, manage any chronic conditions you have, keep your feet and hands dry, and make sure your manicurist sterilizes all equipment.

What is Nail Fungus?

Nail fungus, otherwise known as onychomycosis, is a nail infection that affects about 12% of the population. Most nail infections are fungal, and affect both fingernails and toenails, though toenail infections are much more common. There seems to be hereditary tendency toward these fungal infections, and the condition is contagious. An infection can spread from one nail to other nails, or even to another person.

This infection is caused by microscopic organisms, usually from a class of fungi called dermatophytes, although certain molds and candida (yeast) are usually the form of infection found on the fingernails. These organisms love warm, moist environments like a shower stall or pool. Once they get through your skin (and they can get in through cuts or other openings so small that you're not even aware of them) they can flourish beneath the protection of the nail, which is just one factor that makes nail fungus so difficult to get rid of.

Nail fungus ranges from very mild cases which are little more than annoying or embarrassing, to severe and painful infections that can threaten toe or even foot loss, or cause a more widespread infection that could make the sufferer very ill. These extreme cases are rare, but those with suppressed immune systems, poor circulation, and especially diabetics, are at more risk for serious complications. Most cases, however, appear as a small spot, usually white or yellow, under the tip of the nail. As the infection grows, the nail can become thick, misshapen, and yellowed or discolored. The nail may become dry and brittle, and peel, flake or crumble, particularly around the edges. Nails often grow irregularly, with deep grooves and even tiny holes over the surface. Some people feel pain in the tips of infected fingers and toes, and sometimes the fungus is accompanied by a bad odor. In more advanced cases there can be severe pain, and the nail can even separate from the nail bed or come off completely..

You're at a higher risk for developing nail fungus if you:

• Have your hands in water frequently, without wearing gloves
• Cut the nails too far back, or trim the skin around the nails
• Bite your fingernails
• Frequently wear socks and shoes that hold in moisture
• Work in a humid environment, where your feet are exposed to moisture or perspiration
• Walk barefoot in public places, like gyms, shower rooms and swimming pools
• Have circulation problems, a suppressed immune system, or diabetes
• Have had an injury or other infection on or near a nail
• Have close family members who've had nail fungus
• Get manicures or pedicures from a salon where the instruments are not sterilized

Older adults get nail fungus at a higher rate because in general their circulatory systems work less efficiently, and they tend to have thicker nails, which gives the fungus an even more protected barrier