Toenail fungus is also known as onychomycosis and tinea unguium. It is a common infection caused by fungi that affect the toenails. This condition makes up 50 percent of nail abnormalities. Fungus is found naturally in the human body. It only starts to become a problem when there is an overgrowth of it. The fungal infection can affect both the fingernails and the toenails. About 10 percent of the adult population gets toenail fungus.
6What are the causes?
Nail fungus infections are caused by microscopic organisms called fungi. These organisms don’t need sunlight to survive. They thrive in dark and moist areas. The most common group of fungi that causes this is dermatophytes like Candida. Some yeasts and molds may also cause this infection. These nail-fungus-causing pathogens enter the body through cuts and small spaces in between the nails and nail beds.
