Nail fungus is a common condition that causes nails to become thickened and rather unsightly, sometimes being painful as well. There are a lot of reasons for contracting nail fungus. These include catching it from another fungal condition present on the body, athlete’s foot for example; catching a fingernail fungus from toenail fungus, and vice-versa; fingernail infections can occur if the hands are washed frequently or are immersed in water a lot – this damages the protective skin at the base of the nail, making it easier for infection to enter; a recently damaged nail; having a general poor state of health or other conditions such as diabetes, psoriasis or circulatory issues; more common in hot and humid regions; and, smoking.

Nail Fungus

Commonly, just one nail is infected with the condition, but several can become affected. Initially, infection is painless and the nail may appear discolored and thickened. Usually, this is all that occurs with no other symptoms, but it does, and can, look unsightly. Occasionally though, the infection can become worse. When this happens the whole nail could come away; bits of the nail could fall off; skin adjoining the nail can become inflamed; and, patches could form under the nail. Left untreated, the fungus could destroy the nailbed and the nail itself, while being very painful.

Treatments for nail fungus include antifungal tablets, antifungal nail paint, or nail removal to allow a new nail to form.