Nail fungus or onychomycosis is made up of tiny organisms that can infect fingernails and toenails. Nail fungus is more than a cosmetic problem. It can be painful and interfere with daily activities such as walking, playing sports, writing, and other activities that require manipulating small objects or repetitive finger use. The toenails are 6-7 times more likely to be infected than fingernails.

Causes

• Fungi from the dermatophyte, candida, and mold families
• Fungi prefer moist, warm, and poorly ventilated environments and hide under the nails.
• When the fungi multiply, they cause discoloration and damage to the nail, nail bed, and surrounding structures.
   

Symptoms

The first sign of nail fungus is usually a small spreading white or yellow spot on the nail.

Some of the most common symptoms of nail fungus are:

• Nails may look brownish, yellowish, or have little white.
• Nails may get flaky, brittle, and chipped.
• Bleeding or detachment of the cuticles may occur.
• Debris under your nails.
• Smelly nails.
• Thick toenails that are painful when wearing shoes.

Treatment

There are two basic treatments currently used for correcting this fungal condition: topical and prescription.
Topical nail fungal treatments are best for non-severe nail fungal infections. Topicals are available in many different forms such as sprays and creams. Two popular brands of topical remedies are Lamisil and Tinactin.
For those who have developed a more severe type of nail fungus, they may need to obtain a prescription for a stronger type of medication, the doctor will determine this and prescribe a medicine should it be necessary to do so.