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Have your nails changed in color or gotten so thick that they’re hard to trim? Do they cause you discomfort, 
pain or tenderness? If so, you could have onychomycosis—or, as it’s more commonly called, a nail fungus infection.
More than 35 million people in the United States have nail fungus. The fungus consists of tiny organisms called dermatophytes that can infect fingernails and toenails. A fungus infection lives in the nail bed deep beneath the nail. The nail bed provides a safe place for fungus to grow. That’s why it’s so hard to cure nail fungus. As time passes, the infection can worsen and may cause pain or tenderness.
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Did You Know?
Important Facts About Nail Fungus Infections
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- A nail fungus infection won’t go away on its own.
- Left alone, the infection can cause pain, disrupt activities and may even spread to other nails.
- A nail fungus can lead to bacterial infections in other parts of the body.
- Covering your nails with nail polish or hiding your nails in socks or shoes can actually help the infection spread by giving it a warm, moist environment.
- People with diabetes need to be especially careful because they are three times more likely to get a nail fungus infection. if not treated effectively, the infection can lead to more severe health problems.
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The agony of de-feet
Nail fungus most often afflicts toenails. Socks and shoes keep toenails dark, warm and moist, creating perfect places for fungus to grow. These organisms thrive in moist environments, such as shower stalls, bathrooms or locker rooms.
Stopping the spread
Nail fungus can sometimes spread from one nail to another or from one person to another. It may also be passed along when you share a nail file or clippers with someone who has a nail infection.
Primary care physicians, podiatrists, dermatologists, physician assistants and nurse practitioners can all diagnose and prescribe treatments for nail fungus infections. Tell your doctor if your nails are causing you pain. Your doctor will also need to know if you’ve used any medicines, creams, ointments, polishes or other medications for nail fungus. Ask for an effective treatment so you can start growing healthy nails again.
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