Toenail fungus, 
also known as Onychomycosis, is a difficult to treat fungus that affects both toenails and finger nails. Toenail fungus thrives in damp and sometimes dark environments, which is why it is more common on toenails then fingernails. The big toe and little toe are the most susceptible to the toenail fungus and often show the most signs of fungus when present. Toenail fungus causes paronychia which is an infection of the soft tissue around the toenail causing the toenail to become yellow and crumble.
Toenail Fungus Factors
There are a number of factors that can be attributed to toenail fungus.
- Athlete’s Foot
- Nail Trauma
- Diabetes
- Gender (Males are much more susceptible)
- Repeated and constant exposure to water
- Immunodeficiency
- Peripheral Vascular Disease
- Poor Hygiene
- Hyperhydrosis
While any of the above conditions can make one susceptible to toenail fungus, it is important to see a doctor and have them examine the infection and perform a culture. Quite often there are several different types of fungus present which is one reason it is so difficult to treat. Contact dermatitis, certain bacterial infections, Lichen planus and Psoriasis can all show similar symptoms.
Toenail fungus Factors
Toenail fungus is a very contagious disease and there has been some speculation on whether it is hereditary or not. There is research into whether certain markers will make one more susceptible to toenail fungus then others, but there is no definitive proof. For more information you may want to visit the public forums on toenail fungus.
Toenail fungus can be treated successfully over time. There are no quick cures or treatments, and while there was no real treatment in the past, there are some very effective treatments available today. Many people are turning to natural herbal treatments which we will highlight on the toenail fungus treatment pages.
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