"There is a fungus among us." Think that's referring to a mushroom in the forest? Think again. That comment is more likely a complaint about unsightly growth on your big toe or pinky finger. Fingernail, toenail and foot fungus is on the rise, and many of us don't even recognize that we have it, much less know what to do about it.

There are a variety of fungal infections that affect our hands and feet, but most of them have similar symptoms: separation of nail from nail bed or cuticle; yellowish-green,

white, blue, or black growth under and around nails; thinning, peeling, crusting of the nail; and worst of all, pain and itchiness in the infected area. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to prevent and treat fungal infections.

Prevention is your best friend when it comes to fungal infections. The easiest way to prevent any type of infection in your nails is to keep them clean. You'll also want to avoid exposing your feet and hands to public areas, such as shower floors in the public pool-bring shower sandals.

Also, wear breathable shoes and do not share shoes with others. Those of us who enjoy our weekly manicures and pedicures will need to pay particular attention to how the "tools of the trade" are cared for: are equipment and instruments disinfected after each client? Does the area appear tidy? Just a little observation now can prevent a painful fungal infection later.

If you do find yourself with painful, infected nails, listed below are several affordable and natural treatments that will help to clear up the problems. Be persistent and consistent! Fungal infections may take weeks or even months to clear up, but it's worth the effort. All oils, extracts and capsules listed can be purchased from most health food stores.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Mix 1 cup of clear apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of warm water and pour into a ceramic or glass bowl. Place the infected area into the mixture and soak for 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water and repeat daily. To speed healing process, apply undiluted apple cider vinegar to a cotton ball and secure cotton ball to affected area with an adhesive bandage. Leave on overnight, then rinse in the morning.

Garlic
Consumption of garlic will help to speed the healing process when used in conjunction with the other remedies listed; if you choose to use garlic in a capsule form, use as directed on the bottle label. If the area is not too tender, you may apply garlic oil directly to the infected nail and surrounding tissue; alternate with other treatments listed here.

Grape Seed Extract
Clean the infected area gently with soap and water and allow area to dry completely. Dab grape seed extract directly onto area with a cotton ball. Allow area to breathe; do not bandage, wrap or cover. Repeat as directed on bottle label or twice daily.

Tea Tree Oil
Clean the infected area gently with soap and water and allow area to dry completely. Dab tea tree oil onto area with a cotton ball. Allow area to breathe; do not bandage, wrap or cover. Repeat as directed on bottle label or twice daily.

Oregano Oil
Clean the infected area gently with soap and water and allow area to dry completely. Dab oregano oil onto area with a cotton ball. Allow area to breathe; do not bandage, wrap or cover. Repeat as directed on bottle label or twice daily.