Differentiate between types of toenail fungus

The most widespread varieties of fungal infection toenail is distal subungual Onychomycosis. In other words, this is just the fungal infection that starts from the skin under the nail. First signs of these types of infections of the toenail fungus include abnormal nail color in a shade of pale yellow or milky white, as well as the progressive fractionation and crumbling of the outermost layer of the nail.

Usually, subungual distal Onychomycosis involves a considerable amount of pain if not treated immediately. If you are suffering from these types of toenail fungus, it will be very uncomfortable to wear closed shoes. In fact, it will be difficult to walk at all, especially if the infection is in the more advanced stages.

By this time, the nail you have begun to separate from the skin and may also be completely dropped. In some cases, it may also generate a foul smell because of pus that has collected in the area. This is the variety most contagious and should be treated immediately to avoid contaminating the people around you.

The second most common toenail fungus is white superficial Onychomycosis. It affects approximately 10% of all people who suffer from fungal infection toenail. The first manifestations of these types of toenail fungus include the random appearance of white spots or streaks on the outermost layer of the nail. This condition affects the nails as well.

If not attended immediately, these types of toenail fungus may cause the nail to gradually disintegrate and turn into soft white powdery substances. However, unlike the first type, not this toenail fungus will cause the nail to fall out or is separated from the skin. White superficial Onychomycosis are also much easier to care for than any other toenail contamination.

The remaining two types of toenail fungus are very rare and are less than 1 percent of all people who suffer from fungal infection toenail. The first of these unusual types of toenail fungus is Onychomycosis Candida.

The fungus responsible for this infection is the same fungus that causes yeast infection in the mouth and the female reproductive organ. This infection is indicated for the swelling of the skin adjacent to the nail. The fingernail became unnatural colors such as white, green or orange.

Candida Onychomycosis occurs more frequently than fingernails toenails, possibly because of the constant use of nail polish. In severe cases, the infection can grow into more than one nail at a time.

Finally, the last type of fungal infection toenail is proximal subungual Onychomycosis. This typically occurs in people with HIV. With this infection, the meat around the nail thickens, pushing out the nail and forcing it to separate from the skin.

In order to treat your particular condition, you must first go to a Podiatrist to determine which type of infection you have. All types of toenail fungus has a corresponding treatment and your doctor will be able to recommend the best type of remedy for you.