http://bit.ly/tn3QVU If you discover you have a fungus somewhere on your body, it can be quite traumatic. You never know whether this is a sign of a more serious condition or maybe if it can lead to such conditions in future. Fungal nail infections are very common. Luckily nail fungus treatment is available, Although the disease can manifest itself on anyone at any time and it is a very common problem, grown up men are more prone to it. There are millions in the world who are victims of this disease. It is good to have some understanding of what this type of fungus really is. Your nails, both the sets on your fingers and toes, form a very comfortable living and breeding space for bacteria. The kind producing the fungal infection prefers warm and dark environments. The nail bed fits this description perfectly. Once the bacteria find a home, they can spread very quickly from toe to toe. They can also be passed on from one person to another. Symptoms of the ailment are discoloring of the nail and a slight deformation in the area. There is material formation under the nail and it can be very painful if not treated properly. Treatment should follow immediately once the symptoms begin to appear. If you can catch it early enough it can be stopped by a home remedy or homeopathic cure. This will prevent the problem from spreading. It will also clear up existing infections. Vinegar prepared from crushed apple is found to be very effective and helpful in early stages of an infection. Rubbing it on and under the affected nail curtails the fertility of a breeding ground of the fungus by increasing the acidity in the area. But it is a slow recovery using home made medicines. A slight infection may take months before proper healing is achieved. When an infection is severe, it may be worth a visit to the doctor. An infection that has been left for while may not be able to be cured with homeopathic solutions. That is why early treatment is vital. In such cases, prescription medicine is available to treat fungal infection. These prescriptions are quite strong and can cure almost any infection. It is important to follow all safety guidelines and to be aware of side effects such as possible liver damage. Alternately, there are some medicines that can be bought without prescription. These are for external application and not for internal consumption and are quite effective. Being powerful, these over the counter drugs may sometimes bring about some side effects although not as dangerous as prescription drugs. Read the leaflet in the package before using it. Most medicines will be sure to point out that the treatment is to be applied to the infected area. Fungal infection medicine is not taken by mouth like other medications can be. It is still important to understand the side effects that accompany any over the counter medication. In a nutshell then, treat the infection as soon as it appears. Be on the lookout for the telltale discoloration and slight distortion of the nail as well as material collecting under it. Knock it out with a home remedy and stick with the treatment. Do not expect miracles. It takes time to clear. If you are affected by the fungus, remember your options. Try a nail fungus treatment at home if you catch it early. If that does not work, an over the counter medication can help. Being educated about nail fungus should prevent you from ever having to see a doctor for further treatment. Author Box Marie Fratz has 1 articles online Marie is a foot health pro focusing on curing toenail fungus .