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Toe Nail Fungus – What is It?

The Toe Nail Fungus, also known as Onychomicosis is an embarrassing nail condition that affects people worldwide.  In fact, it is somewhat common, with a percentage of 2% - 18% of people suffering from toenail fungus.  The fungus can have a devastating effect on the nail, first disfiguring it and maybe even destroying the nail eventually.

The condition, can be caused by different types of fungi, although cases show that most come from the dermatophytes group.  Once the fungus enters the nail, it grows by feeding on keratin, which can be found on the hard surface of the nails.  If proper fungal nail treatment is not taken, the fungus spreads rapidly from one toe to another, ultimately affecting the five of them.

There are certain conditions that help the nail fungus to appear on toes, if you find one of these applies to you and you show no symptoms of having fungus on your toe nails, check your feet often:

- People using tight footwear that makes feet sweat.

- Poor toe nail / foot hygiene.

- Wearing layers of toenail polish.

- People who frequent public showers and locker rooms.

- People with chronic illnesses such as diabetes and AIDS.

- People who suffer from circulatory problems.

The fungus that appear on toe nails are almost non-existent in children, but as age increase, so does the chances of nail fungus to appear on the toes.  The toes that are most likely to develop the fungus at the beginning are the big toe and the little toe, maybe because they are cornered inside the shoes.

Check the nail fungus treatments, for an overview of your treating options.