WHAT IS NAIL FUNGUS?
If you’ve ever noticed a yellow tint to your toenails this could be a sign that you’ve had fungus form. Nail fungus starts as a white or yellow small spot beneath either your finger or toenail. When fungus has penetrated deeper into your nail bed, you may have signs of discoloration, thickening, or crumbling of your nail.
WHEN SHOULD I TREAT NAIL FUNGUS?
If you’ve noticed your condition but have not been affected by it, you may not need treatment. Typically, treatment is essential when your nail fungus starts to cause pain. If the fungus has spread to your skin, its athlete’s foot. Call and schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to have your fungus looked at if you’re in pain or concerned it may worsen.
WHY DOES NAIL FUNGUS FORM?
No two patients are alike, so no two feet are alike. That means nail fungus might happen no matter how clean or dry you keep your nails. Often risk factors include:
Having athletes foot previously
Walking barefoot in damp conditions
Having an open nail wound or psoriasis
Having circulation issues or diabetes
Sweating excessively and not washing your feet frequently enough
Slower growing toenails
Not letting your toes breathe
HOW TO PREVENT NAIL FUNGUS
Now that we have uncovered why nail fungus forms, let’s discuss how it can be prevented:
Give up nail polish or at least let your nails breathe between sessions. Take your polish off and give your nails 3 days to breathe
Wear flip flops when visiting or using local locker rooms and restrooms even if you are at a local pool
Use anti-fungal powders in your shoes
Wash shoes so you wash out excess sweat and dead skin
Choose shoes made of natural or breathable material
Trim your nails correctly
Wash your feet regularly
Schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist
In some cases, nail fungus is unpreventable. By practicing how to prevent fungus growth and knowing what to do if it presents, you know now how to prevent and manage a fungus infection. That said, you should visit your local foot specialist if you feel you may have a case of nail fungus or athletes foot and get treatment right away to ensure it doesn't spread or worsen.
At River Podiatry we provide individualized, comprehensive, evaluation and treatment of patients with podiatric issues. The practice specializes in foot surgery and the treatment of foot pain. Expect the best possible care utilizing the most modern techniques.
