Finger Nail Fungus: How to Identify it, and Cure it!

It's actually a lot more common than you may think. It can be quite unsightly and painful if not it's taken care of quickly...Finger Nail Fungus is an infection in the nail bed (where the nail meets the skin.) It should not be confused with mildew, a greenish watermark which can form when moisture is trapped on the nail surface (E.G. between plaster or nail extension and natural nail.) Fungus is rarely able to attack an intact nail, and usually enters from an external wound, which may be as small as a scratch. Prolonged wetness can also allow the fungus to invade. Women are generally more likely to suffer from finger nail fungus than men. It is important to attend to an infection immediately, as it will spread readily if left unattended. If you have finger nail fungus, and it is not responding to treatment, or the fungus is spreading to other areas, please consult your doctor ASAP.

Symptoms

Generally the infection starts with a white/silvery discolouration at the outside edge of the nail, and then gradually works its way inward. As it progresses, the colour darkens to a Yellow-browny colour.

Ridges in the finger nail is not necessarily an indication of a finger nail fungus infection, although those with an infection may notice ridges and pitting.

• Weak, thick, crumbly nails. In severe and extreme cases, there may be pain around the edges of the nail, and the nail could even fall off!

Causes

• Although nail polish doesn’t necessarily directly cause a nail fungus, if you are suffering from an infection, do not use nail polish, as it will aggravate the situation.


• Weakened immune system. This may include AIDS sufferers, Diabetics, Age, Stress etc.


• Damage to the nail


• Hereditary conditions.


• Tools used in nail salons that are not properly cleaned can allow spreading of the fungus from someone with an infection to somebody without one.

Follow these simple steps to help prevent finger nail fungus:

• When working on your nails be sure to work carefully (buffing, cutting, trimming, filing etc.) so as not to injure the skin.


• Wash your hands regularly, and dry them thoroughly.


• Avoid sharing towels, washcloths, nail clippers, nail files, or even nail polish.

Treatment

• Topical treatments are most commonly used for less severe cases of finger nail fungus. They are easily available over the counter, and have very low risk and side effects. You may feel some discomfort in the surrounding skin, as constant application to the affected area is necessary. Recurrence may occur.


• Your doctor may prescribe an oral anti-fungal medication for more serious infections. The down-side of these are that they are quite expensive, and generally need to be taken for a long time to completely eradicate the finger nail fungus, and the side effects may be very unpleasant (upset stomach, headaches, rashes, even damage to the liver!) Recurrence may occur, although less likely with this form of treatment.


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