Fingernail fungus is an infection that isn't just limited to the fingers; it is also a common affliction of the toenails. Excessive thickening or softening of the nails is the primary symptom, though discoloration of them is also not uncommon. This is more than just a minor problem, and it can in fact be very difficult to manage. You must take steps to remove it from your nails as you could otherwise end up losing them.
Our nails are great at keeping infections at bay - not surprising really when you consider that acting as a protective barrier is the reason that we have them at all. The problem is that should an infection (fungus) manage to penetrate them, then the same protective nature of the nails makes it difficult for us to penetrate them also in order to treat the problem.
Fingernails fungus is contagious, which is why it is fairly widespread. The organisms that are responsible for the infection can easily spread from one person to another as a result of close contact. Note that no actual physical contact is necessary, as the organisms can even pass through the air should be it particularly moist.
And in what ways is fingernail fungus normally passed from one person to the next? Literal contact, such as standing with bare feet, or placing an uncovered hand, in an infected area is the main cause of new infections. With the using of contaminated items (shoes, gloves, towels, etc.) being another. If these items are left in damp or sweaty places, and are not regularly cleaned, then the likelihood of fungus growing in them significantly increases.
The increasingly popular trend of applying acrylic nails also contributes to the spread of fingernail fungus. This typically involves various thickening, altering, lengthening of the persons natural nails, and increases the possibility of an acrylic nail fungus infection occurring between these layers. Also, some nail professionals also make the mistake of applying the acrylic nail over the natural nail that, unknown to them, is already harboring spores of the fungus.
Don't overly worry though should you find yourself to be infected with nail fungus as it can be effectively treated. On first noticing anything out of the ordinary regarding your nails, go to a pharmacy and ask about standard over the counter treatments - for most people, the use of these is sufficient to rid themself of the infection. However, should they not have the desired result, then you should not hesitate to contact your doctor so that they can recommend a more potent treatment.
However, prevention is still the best treatment. As such, you should always keep your nails well groomed and your feet well ventilated and dry. As much as possible, stay away from artificial nails and be sure that the tools used by your manicurist are well sanitized. You should find out if they do sanitize their tools and if not, then its time to find yourself a new manicurist.
Remember that your nails, as insignificant and superficial as they may seem, say a lot about your state of health in general. Healthy nails are often signs of a healthy well being. So do pay attention to them and give your nails the proper care they deserve.
Our nails are great at keeping infections at bay - not surprising really when you consider that acting as a protective barrier is the reason that we have them at all. The problem is that should an infection (fungus) manage to penetrate them, then the same protective nature of the nails makes it difficult for us to penetrate them also in order to treat the problem.
Fingernails fungus is contagious, which is why it is fairly widespread. The organisms that are responsible for the infection can easily spread from one person to another as a result of close contact. Note that no actual physical contact is necessary, as the organisms can even pass through the air should be it particularly moist.
And in what ways is fingernail fungus normally passed from one person to the next? Literal contact, such as standing with bare feet, or placing an uncovered hand, in an infected area is the main cause of new infections. With the using of contaminated items (shoes, gloves, towels, etc.) being another. If these items are left in damp or sweaty places, and are not regularly cleaned, then the likelihood of fungus growing in them significantly increases.
The increasingly popular trend of applying acrylic nails also contributes to the spread of fingernail fungus. This typically involves various thickening, altering, lengthening of the persons natural nails, and increases the possibility of an acrylic nail fungus infection occurring between these layers. Also, some nail professionals also make the mistake of applying the acrylic nail over the natural nail that, unknown to them, is already harboring spores of the fungus.
Don't overly worry though should you find yourself to be infected with nail fungus as it can be effectively treated. On first noticing anything out of the ordinary regarding your nails, go to a pharmacy and ask about standard over the counter treatments - for most people, the use of these is sufficient to rid themself of the infection. However, should they not have the desired result, then you should not hesitate to contact your doctor so that they can recommend a more potent treatment.
However, prevention is still the best treatment. As such, you should always keep your nails well groomed and your feet well ventilated and dry. As much as possible, stay away from artificial nails and be sure that the tools used by your manicurist are well sanitized. You should find out if they do sanitize their tools and if not, then its time to find yourself a new manicurist.
Remember that your nails, as insignificant and superficial as they may seem, say a lot about your state of health in general. Healthy nails are often signs of a healthy well being. So do pay attention to them and give your nails the proper care they deserve.
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Learn more about fingernail fungus and the remedies for it : Fingernail Fungus Or Zetaclear Review
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