When it comes to nail diseases, the most common of them is a nail fungus infection. This makes up 50 percent of all nail abnormalities. Fungus is commonly found in the body. It only becomes a problem when it starts to overgrow and spread to other parts. This condition is also known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium. Fingernails and toenails are both susceptible to nail fungus. The symptoms often include nail thickening, discoloration, and crumbling edges. The infection is more prevalent in toenails than fingernails. Based on statistics, 10 percent of the adult population has nail fungus infections.
6What are the causes of nail fungus infections?
Microscopic organisms known as fungi can bring about nail fungal infections. They don’t need sunlight to survive. Instead, they thrive in dark, warm, and moist environments. The most common pathogens that can cause nail fungus infections are the dermatophytes though they may also be caused by molds and yeasts. Pathogens that bring about nail fungal infections enter the skin through tiny cracks and cuts or the space created when the nail separates from the nail bed.
