Nail fungus is known as Onychomycosis.  It lives deep under the nail plate.  Nail fungus often starts with a    simple injury such as a banged toe,nails trimmed to closely, or wearing tight shoes.  Once the fungus finds its way in, the nail itself provides the fungus with a    protective environment that allows it to grow.  The    fungus flourishes in the moist,warm environment of a sock or when it gets sealed in by polish.

Unfortunately, nail fungus can spread from toe to toe and person to person and rarely goes away by itself.

If left untreated it can eventually deform your nails          permanently and make wearing shoes very painful.

There are oral medications for the treatment of          onychomycotic nails that are fairly effective.  These medications can be evaluated for you as a possible    treatment option.

Both of these medications are available only by            prescription.  Your podiatrist will examine your nails and recommend a specific treatment.