Nail Fungus
Causes
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 of
these microscopic organisms live in warm, moist environments,
including swimming pools and showers. They 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.
Another
reason may be the diminished blood circulation to the toes compared
with the fingers, which makes it harder for your body's immune
system to detect and eliminate the infection.
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Nail Fungus
Complications
Nail
fungal infections can be painful and may cause permanent damage to
your nails. They may also lead to other serious infections that can
spread beyond your feet if you have a suppressed immune system due
to medication, diabetes or other conditions.
Fungal
infections of the nail pose the most serious health risk for people
with diabetes and for those with weakened immune systems, such as
people with leukemia or those who've had an organ transplant.
If you
have diabetes, your blood circulation and the nerve supply to your
feet can become impaired. Therefore, any relatively minor injury to
your feet — including a nail fungal infection — can lead to a more
serious complication, requiring timely medical care.
See
your doctor immediately if you suspect nail fungus.
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Here for more information.
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me if you buy any of these products. – Dave
Tishendorf
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