Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is an infection that more than 35 million people in the United States suffer from. It is caused by several microorganisms (anaerobic organisms called dermatophytes) that essentially eat the keratin incorporated in your nails. Fungus is a living organism that thrives in dark, moist places – and in the case of nail fungus – under and around your toe nails or finger nails. It is that flaky, brittle, yellow or discolored thick nail that you have. The discoloration is caused by the fungus being deep inside the nails.

Dermatophytes live in shower rooms and around swimming pools – so you need to be very careful in those places.

If getting treatment for nail fungus, it can take at least two months for the new nails to grow back completely. In some cases the nail(s) need to be removed. Many times this infection reappears after a successful cure.

Description

A muscle cramp occurs when muscle tissue suddenly contracts, creating a sudden spasm of pain. The muscle may stay cramped for several minutes before returning to its normal position. After cramping, the affected muscle may also be sore and tender to the touch.

Muscle cramps are generally caused by over use. Someone who spends long periods of time writing with a pen may experience a cramping sensation in the thumb and first two fingers of the hand. An athlete may get a cramp in a calf muscle after running harder than usual. While physical activity is the primary cause of cramps, dehydration can make the condition worse. Water helps keep muscle tissue supple; when muscle tissue becomes dehydrated, it loses its flexibility and thus is more prone to cramping.