Steps to Help Prevent Nail Fungus

Here are some steps to you can consider to help prevent nail fungus and nail infections. If you have had it before you may be more likely to contact it again. consider these things:

Try to keep your feet dry and keep your toes and feet clean.

Change your socks everyday (and don't share socks or shoes)

Try not to walk barefoot in public areas (change rooms / showers)

When you can, take a break from shoes and socks

If you do have nail fungus or fingernail fungus try to wear dish gloves when doing the dishes or other stuff around the house. When you are done the chore, turn the gloves inside out to allow them to dry out.

If we are talking about the fingernails, then avoid fake nails!!


see also: Nail Problems Fungus Relief

Toe Nail Fungus

Nail Fungus Infection (onychomycosis) - Brief Overview:
Both fingernails and toenails can be affected, although toenail fungus is usually more common.

Symptoms: Infected nails can start off with just a small spot that can then take over the whole nail. An infected nail can become thick, yellow or dark and can even get "crumbly".

What Causes a Fungal Infection: The fungi (sometimes the same as causes athlete's foot) will "colonize" body parts like hair, nails and skin that are made of keratin. In some cases, a yeast infection may take hold.

Some Things that Increase Risk of Nail Infections: Infections can be more common in nails that may already be in a weakened state (an injury to the nail; elderly nails that may be unable to defend against the infection). Also having nails submersed in water for long periods of time or excessive moisture or sweating in the socks or even walking around barefoot in common public areas.

If you think you may have nail fungus or a nail infection you should see a physician and they can take a sample and determine if you do.

see also: Toe Fungus Relief

Nail Conditions: Onycholysis, Onychodystrophy, Onychomadesis, Onychomycosis, Koilonychia and Subungual Hematoma.

Onycholysis is when the nail separates from the nail bed. This condition can also be associated with trauma, nail fungus, infection or as a reaction, allergy or side effect to nail enhancement products or certain drugs.

Onychodystrophy is a deformation of the nails that can result from cancer chemotherapy. It may include discoloration of the nail (dyschromia).

Onychomadesis is the term for the separation and falling off of a nail from the actual nail bed. This can sometimes be caused by infection, a minor injury to the nail matrix, a systemic illness or even as a reaction to chemotherapy.

Onychomycosis (tinea unguium) is a contageous infection caused by fungus. Thick, discolored, chalky or crumbling nails is often the result. Milder cases are sometimes treated with topical antifungal applications to attempt to avoid the potential side effects of oral medication. Consult with your physician on the best option for you.

Koilonychia is when the nail curves upwards and forms into a spoon shape. This is thought to be caused by iron deficiency. The nail starts to change and become brittle and then changes to the cupped spoon-shape.

Subungual hematoma is when blood pools under the nail. This creates pressure and can often be painful. It may be the result of an injury or repetitive minor injuries (like running in shoes that don't fit properly). Often the pressure is released by drilling or melting a hole in the nail to release the blood.

That's enough "ony" words for tonight.