Onychomycosis is what is commonly known as nail fungus in English. The fungus manifests itself as a white or yellow spot underneath the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the nail fungus develops, it will cause discoloration, thickening and crumbly edges to your nail. It is far from being a pleasant sight and it can be very painful.

Fifty per cent of nail disorders is attributed to nail fungus. Fungi love warm and moist environments. Shower floors or wet shoes serve as their breeding grounds. Nail fungus is different from an athlete's foot. However, the fungi that cause them may be the same.

Treatment for nail fungus may be a bit complicated but medications to eliminate it are readily available.

Nail fungus is caused by microorganisms that are not dependent on light for their survival. A warm and moist environment is a perfect setup for the growth of fungi.

The kind of fungus that affects human nails often passes through skin cuts between the nail and the nail bed that are not visible to the naked eye.

The toenails are more prone to having nail fungus infections since they are often confined inside the shoes. Also, blood circulation is impeded in the toenails, making them susceptible to diseases.

An infected nail is thickened, brittle, crumbly, distorted and lacks luster. There is also build-up of debris under the nail.

Older people are more prone to acquiring nail fungus. The slow growth and thickening of nail as someone ages, make a person more prone to infection. Men are more susceptible to the nail fungus compared to women. Family history is also a big factor.

Several factors may increase the chances of getting nail fungus:

- Smoking

- Heavy perspiration

- Frequent exposure to humid and warm environment

- Socks that are too tight, impeding blood flow

- Walking barefoot in public places like pools, shower rooms, gyms

- Presence of minor skin or nail injury or infection

- Diabetes

- Weak immune system

A simple nail fungus infection can be very painful and affect someone's day to day activities. If not treated immediately, it may lead to other infections that may spread to other parts of the body. People with weak immune system or other medical conditions like diabetes, should not take nail fungus lightly since they may cause a serious health problem.

After the laboratory tests, your doctor may ask you to take oral antifungal medicines. These drugs will help in the re-growth of nails without infection. The medication should be taken for six to 12 weeks to ensure that the nail fungus will be eliminated.

Exposure to an environment that is considered breeding grounds of fungi, may cause the recurrence of the infection. It is best to avoid going to warm, moist environment frequently.

Another treatment option a doctor can give is an antifungal nail polish, which is ideal for mild to moderate infection. Topical treatment may also be suggested by your doctor to go with the oral medicine that you might be taking.

The Internet is also a good place to know more about nail fungus. You can find and purchase nail fungus medicines through some websites.