Thick, yellow, brittle or loose nails are all symptoms of a nail fungus infection.
Up to 18 percent of the worlds population currently has a nail fungal infection from mild to severe.
Often the embarrassment of a the nail infection causes a person to hide the symptoms with nail polish or hiding toenail fungus infections in shoes.
This only aggravates the situation.
In addition to treating the nail fungal infection it is important to practice good hygiene and avoid activities that promote fungal growth.
Nail fungus treatments can be natural such as tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar; however, tougher infections often require a harsher topical treatment or even an oral medication.
While treating the infection, always keep the nail clean, dry and trimmed cutting straight across.
Avoid or limit the use of nail polish, wear loose fitting shoes and socks that wick away wetness.
Do not share shoes or nail polish with anyone even if they do not look like they have a nail fungal infection; that does not mean that nail fungus spores are not present.
Avoid nail salons that do not practice superior sanitization methods.
Often toenail fungal infections are more difficult to treat due to the moist dark environment.
These nail fungus infections can lead to secondary infections and it is important to treat them right away.
A fungal infection that has become deep set may result in the crumbling or detachment of the nail as well as growing resistant to most fungal treatments.
When this happens an oral anti-fungal treatment may be necessary; these often have serious side effects including liver damage.
If you suspect you have a nail fungus infection seek the advice of your physician for a diagnosis.
When treated right away many fungal infections will respond to the natural remedies or the topical applications.