Sandal Season is Near! Top Ways to Prevent Toe Fungus

Even though we don’t talk about it much, toenail fungus is a lot more common than people think. It’s easy to catch and in many cases, will come back multiple times. If not treated correctly, toenail fungus can also cause painful complications in the feet.

The best thing you can do is treat your feet well so you don’t have to deal with the condition in the first place. 

Typical Causes of Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungal infections generally develop when microorganisms known as dermatophytes take root in the nail. These organisms feed on the protein, keratin and so being in the toenail is an ideal environment for them. More rarely, they can be caused by yeasts and molds. 

 These are the factors that are likely to lead to a toenail fungus infection:

• Having sweaty feet
• Being older as you’re likely to have reduced circulation in the feet
• A history of or an untreated case of athlete’s foot
• Walking barefoot through damp communal areas such as swimming pools
• Constantly wearing ill-fitting shoes
• Having broken skin or a wound on the foot
• Having a skin condition like psoriasis
• Having diabetes, a compromised immune system, or poor circulation

It should also be noted that while an infection can spread from one toe to the other, it’s rare for you to catch it from someone else.

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The Signs You Should Know

Usually, persons who’ve been afflicted with toenail fungus will have the following signs:

• Thickened nails
• Nails that have become distorted in shape
• Discolored nails
• A dark build-up under the nails
• Nails that have become brittle, ragged, or crumbly
• A slightly foul odor coming from the nail

If you’re not paying attention to your feet, it’s possible to miss the beginning of an infection so make sure to inspect your nails weekly to see what’s going on. Persons who wear nail polish regularly should check out their nails thoroughly in between applications. 

How to Prevent Toenail Fungus

The key to preventing toenail fungus is keeping your feet clean and dry. The fungus will not thrive in an environment that doesn’t promote its growth. Here are a few suggestions.

• When trimming the nails, ensure that the cut goes straight across and ensure that the edges are smooth. It also helps to file down jagged areas. You should sanitize the clipper after each use.
• Avoid going barefoot in public spaces. 
• If your feet sweat heavily, look for socks that absorb moisture quickly. Breathable shoes are also a good investment. 
• Wear shoes that fit properly. Ideally, your shoes shouldn’t be touching your toes at all. 
• It’s suggested that you alternate your shoes so they get a chance to breathe. While this is happening, it’s a great time to sprinkle them with antifungal powder.
• Cleaning your shower thoroughly and regularly will ensure that fungus, molds, and yeasts will not stick around.
• If you use nail salons, ensure that they sterilize their tools regularly.

For those who are currently treating a nail fungus, take care to wash your hands after handling the infected nail.

Doing that ensures that the infection won’t spread to the other healthy nails. 

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When to See a Doctor

If you research home remedies for treating toenail fungus, you’ll likely see suggestions that include garlic, tea tree oil, oregano oil, and olive leaf extract. There are also over-the-counter medications that can help with the condition.

There’s nothing wrong with trying to treat a mild fungus on your own but if you haven’t seen any changes within a week, it’s time to find a dermatologist.

When the fungus is left untreated, there is a risk of developing cellulitis, foot ulcers, or other complications. Persons with diabetes or who have compromised immune systems should never attempt to treat toenail fungus on their own. In those cases, it’s recommended that they contact a doctor immediately.

It’s surprisingly easy to get a toenail fungus but it’s just as easy to prevent it. By taking care of your feet and practicing good hygiene, you can keep your nails healthy.

If you’re living with a chronic illness, make sure to let your doctor know about a possible fungal infection as soon as possible.