Fungal nail infection is often seen on many of us on one or more nails. It is caused by fungi by name Tinea unguium and it starts as small whitish or yellow spot on the toenail or fingernail. Once the infection starts spreading, the entire nail may change into yellow making the infection in-depth. The nail may grow thick and may start developing crumbing edges. For many people it may cause moderate pain. It is possible to treat fungal nail infection but there is every chance for it to recur.
Fungal Nail Infection Causes
Human body consists of number of bacteria and fungi both good and bad. The bad fungi may grow and multiply causing infection when the immunity gets lowered. Fungus feed on the dead tissues of the nails and hair follicles and even on the epidermal layer of the skin. Several medical conditions like Jock itch, Athlete’s foot and ringworm infection may give rise to growth of fungi into the nails. Very often fungal nail infection is seen only on adults. Again many people who get fungal infection would great their toenails affected when compared with fingernails.
There is chance for you to get these infectious fungi when you visit contaminated swimming pool and share public bathrooms where molds have grown. Fungus lives on warm and moist areas and easily spread infection when it gets into your nails through cuts or wounds and even on small gap between the nail bed and nail. It is observed that fungi belonging to the group called dermatophytes cause this infection on nails. There is more chance for you to get infected when your toenails are exposed to continuous moisture.
Another reason for toenails getting more infected than your fingers is it is under the protection of shoes for most of the time giving no room for breathing. You also have chance to get this infection if you do pedicure or manicure in the utensils that is not properly washed. People who have nail deformity or poor blood circulation on the toes may also get fungal nail infection.