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First, your healthcare provider will look closely at your nails. If your healthcare provider thinks you have nail fungus, he may perform a test. Your healthcare provider may clip off a small piece of your nail so that it can be examined. It may be examined in the office or sent out to a lab. This is the only way to know if you really have nail fungus.The sooner you visit your doctor and get diagnosed , the sooner, you can stop the infection from getting worse and begin to see healthier nails grow again.Fungal nail infections may be difficult to treat and may become a reservoir for fungal organisms, causing their recurrence in the skin or nails.
What are the causes of the nail infection and how did you get it?
Nail fungus is made up of tiny organisms that can infect fingernails and toenails. These organisms are called dermatophytes. Nail fungus is very common.The nail fungus moves in under the nail. The nail provides a safe place for the fungus and protects it while it grows.Anything that damages a nail can make it easier for the fungus to move in, such as:
- An injury (like banging a fingernail with a hammer)
- Tight shoes that pinch the toes
- Wearing socks and shoes that hinder ventilation and don't absorb perspiration
- Perspiring heavily
- Walking barefoot in damp public places, such as swimming pools, gyms and shower rooms
- Smoking
- People whose hands are often wet (for example, dishwashers in restaurants and professional house cleaners) are more likely to get fungal fingernail infections.
