Nail fungus can attack the nails on the hands, as well as the nails on the feet.  It is more commonly seen on the feet, where it can thrive unseen in a warm, and slightly damp location.  Although it may be more unsightly than dangerous, in its early stages,  nail fungus is nevertheless, a condition, which should be treated, before it can spread.  Although the condition can be easily treated, it can be stubborn and can reoccur.

Any small break can allow microscopic fungus to enter the nail.  This fungus can be picked up by anyone, of any age, no matter how clean you are or how regularly you care for your nails.  It is the type of fungus that is commonly picked up in gyms.  Nail fungus is  more common among the elderly, as nails naturally thicken with age  It is also more common among those with weakened immune systems or problems with their circulatory system.

Nail fungus is more common among males than females, who are possible more fastidious about nail care.

The first noticeable symptom of nail fungus is a slight discoloration or cloudiness of the nail.  This may occur as a whitish area which darkens with time.  One or more nails may be affected.  Later the nail may thicken, split, or crumble.  The affected nail may also fold or twist inward, or even detach itself from the nail bed.  The condition may or may not be painful.  Toenails grow more slowly than do fingernails, so the condition is more difficult to treat on the feet than on the hands.

It is important to treat nail fungus, because it can lead to more serious infections which may cause permanent damage, not only to the nail, but to the surrounding skin.  This type of infection can present a serious risk to the patients over-all health.

Your doctor may be able to diagnose your nail fungus with a visual inspection.  He will however take a scraping from under the nail for testing.  This testing is important to rule out the possibility of other conditions and also to ascertain the possible cause of the nail fungus.

Once the condition is confirmed as nail fungus, your doctor will suggest an appropriate treatment, depending  on your health and any complicating factors.  If the condition is mild, your doctor may prescribe topical treatment only, but be aware that the most effective treatments are those taken by mouth,  usually taken for four to six months.  These will eliminate the fungus and the new nail growth will appear normal.

There are some possible side affects to oral fungal medications, so make sure to discuss these with your physician.

There are a variety of over-the-counter medications available for nail fungus.  These are applied directly to the infected nail.  Unfortunately these are not generally effective, as the fungus can continue to thrive in the nail bed.

There are also a variety of home remedies such as Vicks, Listerine, vinegar, and tea tree oil.  Many individuals claim to have totally cured their nail fungus by using these products.  Discuss this with your physician.

There are a variety of things you can do to help prevent the possibility of contracting nail fungus.

1.  Keep you feet clean and well dried.

2.  Wear shoes that fit, with plenty of room for your toes to move.

3.  Change your socks often, especially if your feet feel hot and sweaty.  Cotton socks are best.

4.  Use an antifungal foot powder.

5.  Keep your toenails cut short and straight across.  This may also help prevent ingrown toenails.

6.  Avoid going barefoot in public places.

7.  Don’t self-medicate.  See you family physician at the first sign of nail fungus.

8.  Do not cover affected nails with nail polish.  The fungus will continue to thrive beneath the polish.

9.  Wash your hands after touching affected nails.