Nail fungus or onchymosis is a fungal nail infection that affects the fingernails or toenails. But it usually occurs four times on the toenails instead of the fingernails. The first symptoms of infection can usually go unnoticed and are not seen until the situation worsens. Toenail fungus is very rare at younger ages, but the incidence rate increases with age. And also, it is said that about 40% of Americans get infected by the age of seventy.

This infection may be due to a certain fungus among several types of fungi known to mankind. They live in dark places as well as in hot and humid environments. Most toenail fungus is caused by dermatophyte fungi. After the proliferation of fungi, they consume the keratin of the nails. Keratin is the protein responsible for hardening nails.

The following symptoms of fungus may occur: discoloration of the nails to yellow, green, brown, black or purple), inflammation, itching, presence of pus and small bumps, thickening of the nails, spots or stripes on the nails, breakage of the cracked or brittle nails and nails. Toenail fungus is more difficult to cure compared to nail fungus. This is because toenail growth is very slow compared to fingernails.

An infection of the toenail is usually due to a fungus that enters the inside of the nails or cuts in the skin and trauma. Constant exposure to a humid environment like public showers can also lead to toenail fungus.

People with a low immune system, such as diabetics, are commonly prone to toenail fungus. Once the infection is already there, the trend is that it can be very difficult to treat or cure due to your body’s immune system malfunctioning to fight the infection or foreign body.

Today, there are a variety of toenail fungus options and remedies available on the market, online and at home, such as topical creams or ointments, laser treatment, oral antifungal medications, surgical removal of the nail, natural products, home remedies such as tea tree. oil and apple cider vinegar, Vicks vaporub, etc.

But as a final note, always remember that prevention is far better than cure. Also, prevention is always the best cure. Because the inside of the shoe is dark and sometimes humid and warm, it becomes a favorite place of residence for fungi. So be sure to wear breathable, well-fitting shoes; avoid those that are tight. And for the socks you wear, replace them frequently to avoid moisture from sweaty feet that can cause nail fungus.

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