Fungal nails have several different causes. One of the most common reasons is the settling of the fungus under the nail plate. Fungus grows faster in moist and dark environments, which is why fungal infections often occur on the feet. Constantly keeping the feet in closed shoes can cause increased sweating and humidity, which allows the fungus to spread and establish itself in the nails.

Another reason is that the fungus enters the nails through cuts or cracks in the skin. People with fungal nails are often found in humid and hot environments such as gyms, pools or shared shower areas. Walking barefoot in such places increases the risk of contracting the fungus.

Common Symptoms of Fungal Nails
Symptoms of fungal nails may vary from person to person, but some common symptoms include:

Thickening and yellowing of the nail plate
Lifting or cracking of the nail plate
Formation of white or yellow spots on the nail
Redness and swelling around the nail
Bad smell under nails
These symptoms may be signs of a fungal nail infection. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor.

How Can We Prevent Fungal Nails?
We can take some simple steps to prevent fungal nails:

It is important to keep feet clean and dry at all times. Wash your feet regularly and dry them thoroughly.
Cut and clean toenails regularly. Cutting nails straight across can help reduce fungal growth.
Pay attention to the choice of shoes and socks. Use shoes and socks made of sweat-proof and breathable materials.
Avoid walking barefoot in shared shower areas or pools. It is important to always wear slippers or sandals.
Regularly applying an antifungal spray or cream to your toenails reduces the risk of infection.
These simple steps can help you prevent fungal nails.

Natural Solutions That Can Be Applied at Home for Fungal Nails
It may be possible to treat fungal nail infection at home with natural solutions. Here are some home remedies you can try:

Apple cider vinegar: Applying apple cider vinegar to fungal nails can prevent the growth of the fungus. Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and apply it on the affected nail.
Garlic: Garlic has natural antifungal properties. You can apply crushed garlic on fungal nails.
Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil is an effective natural remedy to treat fungal infections. You can use it by applying a few drops of tea tree oil to the affected nail.
Clove oil: Applying clove oil on fungal nails can stop the growth of the fungus. Soak a cotton ball in clove oil and apply it to the affected nail.
These natural remedies can be effective in mild cases of fungal nail infection. However, in serious cases it is important to consult your doctor.

Over-the-Counter Treatments for Fungal Nails
Many over-the-counter medications are available to treat fungal nail infection. These medications are usually available from pharmacies or online. Here are some over-the-counter treatment options available to you:

Anti-fungal sprays: Regularly applying anti-fungal sprays to your feet can reduce the risk of infection.
Anti-fungal creams: Anti-fungal creams can help prevent the spread of infection.
Anti-fungal nail polish: Anti-fungal nail polishes can stop the spread of infection in the nails.
Over-the-counter treatment options may be effective in mild cases. However, in serious cases it is important to consult a doctor.