Nails are one of the important parts of our body. They increase the beauty of ones hand.
A good diet keeps the nails healthy. Good diet includes lots of fruits and raw vegetables so that the nails get the required vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Food, which is rich in silicon like broccoli, fish onions and biotins like whole grains, should be eaten. By drinking lots of water and fresh fruit juices also keep the nails healthy.

What causes nail fungus?

Nail fungus is a type of infection caused by tiny fungus and notoriously difficult to get rid of. Nail fungus is made up of tiny organisms. These can inflect fingernails and toenails. The nail provides a safe place for the fungus and protects it while it grows.
Anything that damages a nail can make it easier to move in, such as an injury like banging a fingernail with a hammer and tight shoes that pinch the toes.

Signs and symptoms of nail fungus:

If one or more of the fingers are thickened, brittle, crumbly or ragged. They might be distorted in shape, flat or dull, having lost and luster and shine. The infected nail may also separate from the nail bed and will have pain.

Nail fungus treatment:

The treatment of fungal nail is expensive and long-term. The treatment includes topical preparations and oral anti fungal medications. Once the medication is discontinued there are chances of returning of infection.
Apply topical creams directly to the infected site for less serious infections. These creams include Lotrimin, Monistat, Nizoral, Tinactin, and Lamisil. If the topical treatments fail, more potent medication can be taken orally by consulting a specialist. These oral medications may have side effects

Prevention:

As, prevention is better than cure. So the best treatment is prevention. There are few steps for prevention. The nails should be cut straight across first. The feet should be kept dry and well ventilated. Usage of artificial nails and nail polish should be avoided. Wearing appropriate socks and rubber gloves prevents from nail fungus. Washing hands after touching the infected nail stops spreading of infection.