What is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus, sometimes known by its scientific names Onychomycosis or Tinea unguium, is made up of microscopic organisms that dwell around the toenails and fingernails. Most of the time, our toenails and fingernails operate as very effective barriers. They keep dirt, bacteria and fungi out-most of the time. While our nails are generally good at keeping superficial infections from entering and taking hold, sometimes they are overwhelmed. When fungi break the barrier, they tend to settle in for long-term residence. However, the barrier that usually protects us from infection also makes it difficult to treat infections that made it through. Nail fungal infections develop rather slowly, and can be difficult to treat. Once they have made it behind the barrier protection, they can be difficult to reach.
Over 35 million individuals are affected by nail fungal infections in the United States. The fungus thrives in the warm dark and protected environment behind the nail. Women who wear nail polish and acrylic nails are more likely to develop nail fungal infections. This is because plastic or acrylic nails can trap moisture and creating a moist and dark environment where fungus can thrive. Most of the time, nail fungal infections appear in the toenails. Socks and shoes keep our feet sheltered in a dark and moist environment that is also inviting for fungi. In fact, some doctors estimate that the nails are at least six to seven times more likely to developing a nail fungal infection. Fungal infections start at the base of the nail and then spread upwards. The nail may become brittle, crumbly in appearance, red, and irritated. As the fungal infection spreads, the nail may begin to grow irregularly. The nail may begin to change in appearance.
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More Articles On Nail Fungus
An Overview of Nail Fungus
It may or may not come as a consolation to you to learn that nail fungal infections are incredibly common. When nail fungal infections strike, it's hard to look past the physical signs of this condition.
Antifungal Agents To Treat Fungus
Nail fungal infections were once dismissed as purely cosmetic, but now doctors are beginning to realize that these infections can cause serious health complications. People with compromised immune systems...
What is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus, sometimes known by its scientific names Onychomycosis or Tinea unguium, is made up of microscopic organisms that dwell around the toenails and fingernails. Most of the time, our toenails and fingernails operate...
Home Remedy for Nail Fungus
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Risk Factors and Complications of Nail Fungus
Nail fungus is a nasty problem that can be hard to get rid of. Over ten million Americans are afflicted with some kind of nail fungal infection. Once you have become infected, it can be difficult to get rid of nail fungus.
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Fungal infections are very common, affecting an estimated 11 million Americans. How do you know if you have a nail infection? Because nail fungal infections tend to develop gradually over time...
Nail Fungus News On The Web
Garden Q&A (The Philadelphia Inquirer)
Question: The heavy snow damaged a weeping cutleaf Japanese maple with great sentimental value. The trunk is about 2½ inches in diameter; at the top of it, the weeping branches emerge. The weight of the snow split the trunk vertically, basically evenly in half, down more than a foot. Can the tree be saved? |
Put your best foot forward (Channel NewsAsia)
SINGAPORE: Our feet are made for walking, standing and carrying us around. Whether it's because they are literally last in line body-wise or because we just take our feet for granted, many of us are guilty of taking our feet for granted with little or no tender, loving, care. |
What Is Oral Thrush In Adults? What Causes Oral Thrush In Adults? (Medical News Today)
Oral thrush (oral candidiasis) is a condition in which the fungus Candida albicans causes an infection on the lining of the mouth. It is also known as "Thrush". When occurring in the mouth or throat of adults it may also be termed candidosis or moniliasis. Oral thrush causes white lesions, usually on the tongue or inner cheeks. The lesions can be painful and may bleed slightly when they are ... |
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