How can I tell if I've got nail fungus or a fungal infection?

Recommended treatments for nail fungus: ZetaClear : Funginix : Amoils

Onychomycosis, or commonly referred to as nail fungus is a fungal infection that attacks the fingernail or toenail and embeds itself under the nail where it feeds on the keratin of which the nail is made. 

This is a common problem for many people; particularly those who frequent nail salons or public pools and gyms.  A nail fungus infection thrives in warm, dark moist environments and is why toenail fungus is more common than fingernail fungus. 

People who have acrylic nails over their own nails commonly find themselves with a fungus nail as well as moisture gets trapped between the acrylic nail and the live nail making the environment right for the fungus. 

A nick in the edge of the skin of the fingernail or debris getting trapped under the nail can allow the fungus to enter and the fungus to take hold.

The first symptoms of an infection fungus condition are a discoloring of the nail as well as a change in the texture of the nail.  The nail may appear white or yellow and become thicker and flakey in the beginning stages. 

As the infection worsens without treatment the discoloration may take on a greenish or brown hue and the nail will begin to break or even become misshapen and severely damaged. 

In the beginning stages of the infection there is generally no pain; however, as the infection continues there is great discomfort and pain and the potential loss of the nail entirely. 

While nail fungal infections can often be detected visually, full diagnosis is made by a physician from a sample of debris under the nail.  The physician will often recommend a treatment plan or prescribe treatments for the fungal infection; however, natural treatments or home remedies are often just as effective with no side effects.

To cure a nail fungal infection you must be steadfast with treatment using the topical treatment each day for 3 – 4 months; however, it can take as long as a year to fully be rid of the fungus. 

Natural topical oils and creams are available over the counter or on the Internet and have had positive results on various types of fungus.  Home remedies are also effective.  A mixture of tea tree oil and lavender oil provides a broad spectrum fungus treatment of antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiseptic with the healing and protection qualities of lavender. 

In combination with the topical treatments the infected nail can be soaked in vinegar or Listerine mouth wash for 20 minutes each day to speed the cure. 

If you find you have a nail fungal infection it is important to practice good hygiene practices such as keeping your nails clean and dry as well as trimmed and filed. Additionally, avoid walking around barefoot in public pools or gyms and avoid nail salons. 

If you are diligent in practicing the grooming, treatments and prevention you should see your fungal infection disappear without reappearance; though it can take up to a year to get there.

Should I treat nail fungus with a prescription drug or a natural remedy