Nail disorders are rarely disabling or even painful. But they are a nuisance. One of the most common problems is toenail fungus (medical name onychomysosis)-about 15% of people have it, including nearly half of those over 70.

This infection has received a great deal of press and advertisement time, as there are finally therapies that actually successfully eradicate these infections.

A fast overview of the disease can really help us to get rid of it.

The body normally hosts a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Some of these are useful to the body. Others may multiply rapidly and form infections. Fungi can live on the dead tissues of the hair, nails, and outer skin layers. An infection of nail fungus (called-onychomycosis) occurs when fungi infect one or more of your nails. Onychomycosis usually begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. This commonly affects toe nails rather than finger nails. The infection actually eats your skin and nail, so it can continue growing and may spread to other nails. Your nails may look "different," be so thick they're hard to trim, and may cause you discomfort, pain or tenderness that disrupts daily activities.The prevalence of onychomycosis is about 15% in the adult population.