Nail fungus is a common type of fungal infections of nails, contributing towards almost 50% of the nail abnormalities. 
Nail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis is an infection caused due to fungus, affecting mostly toenail or thumbnail, but can spread to other nails as well. The infection may initiate as a white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail and can infect other nails. With the progression of the fungus, the nail may get thickened, discolored and/or crumbled.
Fungal infections of nails are usually caused by Candida, yeast and molds. The entry of this pathogenic fungus is generally through the tiny skin cuts, bruises between the finger beds.
Risk Factors:
Lack of proper oxygenated blood supply
Slow growth of nails
Family history
Weak immune system
Athlete’s foot
Signs And Symptoms:
Brittle, yellowish nails
Scaling under the name, identified to be hyperkeratosis
Yellow or white streaking or spotting on any side of the nail
Dull, distorted, ragged nails
Separated nails from nail beds
Treatment:
For diagnosis, a physician may suggest an examination of debris under the nail, which is scraped from the nail bed; and the same is tested for potassium hydroxide smear or fungal culture. Oral antifungal medications are prescribed to treat the infection.
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