Causes of Nail Fungus
Onychomycosis is caused by a microscopic fungus that infects the surface under toenails
or fingernails. Often, people have nail fungus without realizing it.
The fungi most likely to cause the problem are called dermatophytes. They
are found in warm, damp areas, such as locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools.
Normally, fingernails and toenails are good barriers to fungus and prevent fungus
from invading the nail. Sometimes, however, the nail doesn't do its job. This can
happen when there is untreated athlete's foot, a break in the nail from an injury,
certain medical conditions, or long-term exposure to dampness. Nail fungus then
can invade the area under the nail.
When this happens, the fungi live under the nail in the nail bed and nail plate.
The fungi eat a protein in the nail called keratin, causing thickened,
yellowed nails and organic waste material to build up under the nail.
If left untreated, the nail plate may separate from the nail bed and crumble off.
The nail may also become thick and/or misshapen. Onychomycosis is not a problem
to be ignored as it will not clear up without treatment. In fact, it can spread
to other nails and make everyday activities, such as walking or writing, painful
and difficult.
Avoiding nail
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