Most people are surprised to know that fungus is present all over the body just like bacteria. However, this doesn’t really pose a threat but only becomes a problem if the fungus begins to grow quickly. It could eventually become an infection. Tinea unguium, which is also known as onychomycosis, is one such fungus that affects either the toenails or the fingernails. While the fungus may not give rise to any visibly distressing symptoms or signs, the fungal infection will grow and develop over time. The fungus tends to grow and thrive in a warm and a moist environment. Therefore, nail fungus is quite common. If there is already a presence of fungus in the body, then it is more likely to grow. Also, if a person comes into contact with someone who has a fungal infection, they are at risk of getting the fungal infection as well. The same fungus that causes ringworm, jock itch, and athlete foot is the cause of nail fungus. Infections in the toenails are more common as feet are usually in tight socks and shoes, and lack of cleaning may allow such fungi to thrive in these spaces. Use of a common nail clipper or even emery boards can cause nail fungus as well.

Risk factors
The cause for a possible fungal infection is manifold and each comes with its own unique treatment plan. However, experts opine that there are a few tell-tale signs that may indicate why you possibly have nail fungus, and there are certainly some risk factors. These include diabetes, being over 65, swimming in pools open to the public, failure to treat a wound around the nail, or wearing closed shoes like boots. Most adults get fungal infections as compared to children. According to research, men are more likely to get a fungal infection as compared to women. Adults are more easily affected due to the poor circulation of the blood in the body and the nails may thicken as they age.

Visible signs
There are several visible signs that tell a person that they could be at risk of getting a serious infection. These include white streaks on the nail, crumbling of the nail at one end, yellow spots on the nail, losing the nail entirely, or even a growth under the nail. Other common signs that people should be looking out for are brittle or hard nails, nails that give out a foul odor, or nails that are misshapen and may fall or crack. Doctors are the best source to suggest remedies and diagnose the problem. Other conditions mimic the symptoms and a self-diagnosis may be misleading. By taking a sample of the nail and examining it under a microscope, the doctor can determine if there is a fungal growth.

Treatment
Doctors generally discourage patients from taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications, as they are not very effective. They may prescribe topical ointments or creams that are to be dabbed on the nail head or the affected area for the best results. Other oral medications include Lamisil, Sporanox, Diflucan, or Gris-Peg.