Once your nail turns brittle or changes in color, it is likely that you are having a toenail fungal infection. Nail fungus infects mostly the big toes but it may also affect the fingernails. It may be hard to eliminate nail fungal infections. This is because toenails grow slowly and so treating a nail infection takes time and a lot of patience. Treating a nail infection takes several months. But before we discuss treatments, let us find out more about this type of infection first.
6What causes toenail fungal infections?
Toenail fungal infections occur due to the overgrowth of fungi in, on, and underneath the nail. Fungi grow in warm and moist environments. They can overpopulate when they find themselves in this kind of environment. The most common type of fungus that causes toenail fungal infection is called dermatophytes. In some cases, yeasts and molds also cause toenail fungal infections. The same fungi that cause nail infections can also cause jock itch, ringworm, and athlete’s foot. Fungi are naturally part of the human body. You may contract the infection from someone who has been infected by the fungus. You may also contract it from an infected surface. Going to a salon that does not practice proper hygiene and sanitation may also increase the risk of you incurring a nail fungal infection.
