What is a Fungal Infection?

The microorganism called dermophytes causes fungal infections.  Nail fungus can affect the fingernails or the toenails; however, the toenail is harder to cure. 

Nail fungus thrives in moist dark atmospheres and feeds off keratin…the same ideal conditions that are around the feet.  Without changing the atmosphere and being diligent with the remedies as well as prevention it is difficult to find cures for a toenail fungal infection. 

This being said, you may still be asking yourself ‘What is a fungal infection?’

Fungal infections are caused by dermophytes that can affect the skin, hair or nails and depending on the area of the body that is affected it is called different things. 

A fungus of the skin is known as tinea.  Tinea can also be found in different areas including the body, groin area and the foot among others. 

Tinea of the foot is more commonly known as athlete’s foot and the same microorganisms can embed in the toenail bed causing toenail fungal infections.  No one is immune from dermophytes; however, the elderly and the immune compromised will often be more susceptible to fungal infections and may experience a more difficult time with the treatments being fully effective.

Toenail fungus enters through any cut, abrasion or trauma that has been caused on or near your toenail.  If you have a hangnail that you have pulled rather than trimmed then you have left an open window to a toenail fungal infection. 

Toenails that are weakened by rubbing on the inside of your shoe are also susceptible to infection.  It is important then, for treatment as well as to prevent a fungal infection just what the symptoms and causes of fungal infections are as well as how to prevent it.
 
The symptoms of toenail fungal infections generally begin with a discoloration of the nail and a thickening of the nail. 

Many times you will notice the thickening as it becomes difficult to keep your toenails trimmed and the nail, upon trimming may split or snap due to the brittle nature of the fungal infected nail. 

Past these early stages the toenail will begin to become misshapen and may lift away from the nail bed allowing debris to enter and become trapped under the nail creating farther infection.  Once infection has become this advanced a natural remedy may be too late leaving treatment choices of harsh chemical treatments, harmful oral treatments or surgical removal of the nail.

It is best to begin treating the infection in the early stages using healing natural oils such as tea tree and lavender oils or a topical natural treatment such as funinix or ZetaClear to fully eliminate the infection. 

In addition it is important to practice good prevention methods. 

To prevent a fungal infection it is important to always wear foot protection when at a public gym, pool or shower to avoid contact with common dermophytes. 

Keep your nails clean and try as well as trimmed; however, trimming them too short can also allow your toenails to become susceptible.  Wear comfortable fitting shoes and cotton socks that wick away the moisture.  With sound treatments such as those listed about and prevention methods you can keep a fungal infection at bay!