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
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Nail Fungus News On The Web
Nailing toe fungus
Nailing toe fungus express-news Copyright 2012 express-news. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Updated 10:34 a.m., Monday, December 5, 2011 San Antonio residents can wear sandals nine months out of the year without getting a second look, so their toes had better be presentable. Otherwise known as onychomycosis, toenail fungus can ... |
Toe fungus and whooping cough
Health issues in two different areas cause concern for parents and students. Health department officials in Kentucky warn people about a highly contagious illness spreading in the Louisville area. In North Carolina, whooping cough has recently affected schools in Alamance County. |
New approach can solve treatment-resistant problem in cancers
Free-flowing cancer cells have been mapped with unprecedented accuracy in the bloodstream of patients with prostate, breast and pancreatic cancer, using a brand new approach, in an attempt to assess and control the disease as it spreads in real time through the body, and solve the problem of predicting response and resistance to therapies. |
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