Why are my nails so thick and brittle?
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails, which is very difficult to cure.

What causes it?
Onychomycosis is caused by a fungus. Often a person has had athlete's foot for a long time prior to the development of onychomycosis. Sometimes trauma or damage to a nail predisposes to the development of onychomycosis.

How do I treat it?
Once fungus gets into the nails, it is very difficult to treat. Onychomycosis of the fingernails can be treated by taking pills called Griseofulvin, Lamisil, Sporanox, or Diflucan. The pills must be taken for three months to one year and have side effects. These include headaches, nausea, and rare reversible liver damage. You can not drink alcohol. A course of treatment costs approximately $300-$1,000 and has a 50-70% chance of curing the condition. Blood work may also be needed. Topical antifungals may be useful, especially in helping to prevent the spread of infection to your other nails or to your housemates or locker room partners.