Nail Fungus

Overview
Nail fungus (also known as Onychomycosis) is made up of tiny organisms (Tinea Unguium) that can infect fingernails and toenails. The nails of our fingers and toes are very effective barriers. While this usually just makes it difficult for an infection to invade the nail, the barriers can work just as hard to keep infections inside the nail once they've invaded.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, more than 35 million people in the United States get nail fungus. The fungus lives underneath the nail because the nail provides a safe, dark, damp place that actually protects the fungus while it grows. This is why it can be difficult to treat nail fungus.

Most often, nail fungus appears in the toenails because socks and shoes keep the toenails dark, warm and moist. The toenails are six to seven times more likely to be infected than fingernails.

Symptoms
Fungi often cause the area around the base (and sides) of the nail to become red and irritated. At first, the edges or base of the nail is affected. As it spreads, the nail and nail bed show changes. There is often mild discomfort, itchiness or pain around the cuticles (the flesh surrounding the nails). Bleeding or detachment of the cuticles may occur. The nail can become yellow-green, dark yellow-brown and sometimes white spots are seen. The nails thicken and develop abnormal grooves, lines and tiny punched out holes. For more information on symptoms, click here.

Treatment
The best treatment is prevention. Keep your nails cut straight across. If nails are hard to cut, soften them by soaking in salt water (use 1 teaspoon per gallon of water and then dry well). Keep feet dry and well ventilated. Be careful with artificial nails and be selective about choosing your manicurist. Ask about how they sterilize their instruments.

The organisms can sometimes spread from one person to another wherever air is moist and people’s feet are bare. This can happen in places like shower stalls, bathrooms or locker rooms or it can be passed around on a nail file. To avoid contracting nail fungus this way, always wear flip flops in a public shower and don't share nail files and emery boards.

Nail polish and plastic or acrylic nails can also trap moisture and fungi, so use lighter shades of nail polish to help light get through the nail. Also, avoid artificial nails.

Topical creams applied directly to the infected site are often used for less serious infections. Visit the foot care section of your local drug store chain. Creams include Lotrimin, Monistat, Nizoral, Tinactin and Lamisil. If the topical treatments fail, more potent medications can be taken orally if your health care provider thinks it is necessary. For more treatments, click here.

Nails can reveal a lot about the body’s internal health. Healthy nails are often a sign of good health, while bad nails are often a sign of more serious problems. A high protein diet may actually help your nails grow stronger and healthier.

Ask Your Physician
See a podiatrist or health care provider if you see signs of fungus. Oral medications may have side effects, so tell your health care provider about any other medications, including birth control like the pill or Depo-Provera, if you are prescribed an oral medication for fungus.

Find out more about nail fungus and prevention.

/http://www.livestrong.com/article/13863-nails/