Infection is caused when a microorganism (a minute living body not perceptible to the naked eye), more commonly a parasitic fungi, enters through a weakened nail, a small cut or an abrasion in or around the nail. This fungi is protected by the nail to be able to continue to grow and spread which causes the infection. This fungi thrives in warm, dark, and moist areas, meaning toenail fungus infections are more common and harder to cure. The fungi feed off the keratin (an extremely tough protein substance in the nails), causing them to chip, peel, and become weak. If a nail fungus infection goes untreated it can cause a nail to break loose from its bed, causing it to fall off.

Toenail fungus infections are definitely more difficult to cure because the feet are continuously providing the perfect breeding ground for fungi. It's always best to try and keep your feet clean, dry, and well manicured. When cutting your toenails you should always cut them straight across and not too short. You don't want to add to the problem or put yourself at risk for a fungus infection.

A fingernail fungus infection is commonly contracted from nail salons. Some salons don't practice safe and sanitary procedures giving way for their customers to contract a fungus infection. Women who use too much nail polish or artificial nails are adding to their risk of a nail fungus infection to occur. Artificial nails weaken the natural nail and because they often have pockets for moisture and debris to get trapped between the two, it can lead to a fingernail fungus infection.

There are treatments available to cure. The type of treatment will be based on the severity of the infection. The earlier a is caught, the faster the result will be during treatment. In some more severe cases it may be necessary for surgical or chemical removal of the nail to kill the fungi. Killing the fungi is the only way to cure the infection.

For those who don't know what symptoms are for a you should check for discoloration or yellowing of the nail. Another sign of a nail is a thickening of the nail. If you notice when trimming your nails that they are becoming more difficult to cut because of thickness or if they break off because they are too brittle, then you may be suffering from a infection.

A whether it's the toenail or the fingernail, can cause inflammation and pain if left untreated. These conditions can lead to other infections as well.

There are some preventive measures you can take to safe guard yourself from contracting. You should always wear protection on your feet when in a public place such as gyms, restrooms, pools, etc. If you suffer from sweaty feet you may want to change socks and shoes a few times a day. If you are using a salon make sure it practices sanitary procedures. You shouldn't share nail polish or shoes with anyone.

If you believe you have a nail treatment, you should speak with your doctor to get a proper diagnosis. Together, you can come up with a beneficial treatment plan for your specific stage of this condition.