Toenail fungus, which is also called onychomycosis of the nail or tinea of the nail, is a common fungal infection that grows on both the fingernails and toenails.  Even if you have never experienced fungus growing on your nails, it is actually more common than you may think.  This infection can easily infect one or several of your toenails.  It may begin very mild and quickly spread to a worsening condition. Here as a closer look at toenail fungus and what causes this painful infection.

There are many reasons why you may experience a toenail fungus.  First of all, it is important to remember that fungal infections thrive in dark, wet environments. The area around and underneath your toenails is a perfect example of where this kind of infection grows easily.  It is more common for people to experience a fungal infection of their toenail than on their hands.  This is because your feet stay damper throughout the day than your hands.  When you wear socks or closed toed shoes, this is a perfect condition for toenail fungus to thrive and spread.

It is easy to determine whether or not you have toenail fungus.  When the fungus first infects your nail, it may begin as a yellow or white spot on or underneath the toenail.  As the infection spreads, you will experience discoloration of the nail, which may turn yellow or brown.  The toenail will eventually become hard and brittle and may even flake off or fall off of your toe.  Toenail fungus can disfigure the toe and be quite painful, if left untreated.
If you suspect that you are suffering from a painful toenail infection, there are many medications that you can buy to help clear up the fungus.  Serious infections may be more difficult to treat than miles and infections.