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
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What is Nail Fungus?
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Home Remedy for Nail Fungus
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Nail fungus news on the Web
Sometimes I Wonder What I'm Gonna Do! (Indymedia Chiapas)
The Who wrote the best version of Summertime Blues, but the final verse needed work, so I wrote a new final verse. This should be folk music by now. Wouldn't you like to honor the last of the Jesus Freak Kid's clan? Well here's a third verse that The Who or you might want to do! |
Foot doctors convene in Hawai'i (Honolulu Advertiser)
Some 3,500 of the nation's foot doctors, support staff and family members will be strolling around the Hawai'i Convention Center next week for the American Podiatric Medical Association's 96th Annual Scientific Meeting. |
Getting a foot in the door (Jacksonville Daily News)
Totally Toes in Jacksonville is helping clients put their best foot forward, one pedicure at a time. Two years ago, Robyn Harrington was a stay-at-home mom looking for a way to curb empty nest syndrome before it started. |
Soliloquy (Aberdeen American News)
A friend recently observed that when someone suffers hardship, the last thing they want is for you to compare their case with someone else's. Comparisons trivialize pain.... |
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