Nail Fungus

Nail fungus or Onychomycosis grows in the nail bed, where the nail meets the skin. Once the infection sets in, it is difficult to dislodge it. Changes noticed in the nails are brittleness, crumbling, discoloration and loss of luster and shine. Nail fungus is more likely to affect the toes than the fingernails. The area around the nails becomes red and irritated. The nails may appear dark yellow-brown or yellow-green. Debris gets trapped under the nail bed and the nail gets detached. Nails affected by fungus thicken and develop abnormal grooves, lines and holes.

Nail fungus is contagious but does not spread very easily. It tends to occur in people with weakened immune systems. It is essential to get the nail fungal attack diagnosed by a doctor since it can be mistaken for other bacterial infections. Warm and moist environment is ideal for fungus to thrive and grow. If you are affected by this condition, you may notice that the infected nail is separated from the nail bed. Nail fungus affects older people whose skin is thickening, Nail fungus also tends to affect men more than women and those with a family history of this infection. Those suffering from diabetes, circulatory problems or weakened immune system are at a higher risk of contracting nail fungus.