Nail fungus, also known as Onychomycosis, is an infection caused when fungi infects one or more of your nails. A nail fungal infection may begin as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the nail fungus spreads deeper into your nail, it may cause your nail to discolor, thicken and develop crumbling edges an unsightly and potentially painful problem.

With the right treatment, you should be able to get rid of a nail fungus. It could take a few months to cure it completely, so you have to be patient.

What are the causes of nail fungus?

Fungi are microscopic organisms that don't need sunlight to survive. Some fungi have beneficial uses, while others cause illness and infection.

Nail fungal infections are typically caused by a fungus that belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. But yeasts and molds also can be responsible for nail fungal infections.

All these fungi, yeasts and molds grow in warm, moist environments, including swimming pools and showers. These microscopic organisms can invade your skin through tiny invisible cuts or through a small separation between your nail and nail bed. They cause problems only if your nails are continually exposed to warmth and moisture conditions perfect for the growth and spread of fungi.

Infection with nail fungus occurs more in toenails than in fingernails because toenails are often confined in a dark, warm, moist environment inside your shoes where fungi can thrive.

Nail fungus can be very painful. It may cause permanent damage to your nails and can spread to the surrounding areas if you have a weak immune system. People suffering from diabetes, leukemia, AIDS or those who've had an organ transplant are more prone to this infection. Nail fungal infection, if not properly treated in time, can lead to very serious complication.

There are lots of antifungal nail creams and ointments available in the market, but they aren't very effective. Before using anything, you must first consult your physician.

Nail fungus can be very painful. It may cause permanent damage to your nails and can spread to the surrounding areas if you have a weak immune system. People suffering from diabetes, leukemia, AIDS or those who've had an organ transplant are more prone to this infection. Nail fungal infection, if not properly treated in time, can lead to very serious complication.

There are lots of antifungal nail creams and ointments available in the market, but they aren't very effective. Before using anything, you must first consult your physician.