What Is Nail Fungus?

Nail fungus is caused by microscopic organisms that thrive in warm and moist environments. The fungus enters the skin through a small separation between the nail plate and nail bed. There are natural herbal supplements that can treat nail fungus.

How Does Nail Fungus Happen?

Nail fungus happens in the toenail more than in fingernails because most shoes provide a warm, dark and damp environment for the fungus to thrive in – especially if you’re on your feet all day. Also, during the course of the day, our bodies accumulate acids and toxins in the feet which contribute to the growth of the fungus.

Besides the sweat that accumulates in our footwear, prolonged exposure to warm, moist environments such as swimming pools, hot tubs, or showers can also contribute to the growth of the fungi. Unclean utensils such as the kind found in nail salons can also contribute to nail fungus.

Signs of Nail Fungal Infection

• Thick and brittle nails
• Thick with yellowish color
• Distorted shape of nails
• Dull color with no sheen
• Dark colored nail, sometimes black in color
• Pain in your toes or fingertips (sometimes accompanied by an odor)
• Complete separation of nail plate from nail bed

Nail fungus is contagious and is classified as a type of nail disease. It can spread and contaminate other healthy nails. If you share nail care tools such as nail clippers or files others that use such items are being exposed to possible infection. If nail fungus continues to go untreated, the nail can imbed itself into the surrounding skin and worsen the condition. This type of infection can also cause the nail to rot, decay and fall off. When this occurs the nail bed is exposed and can create an incredible amount of pain.