Ways to Prevent Toenail Fungus

Toenail Fungus is an infection caused by fungi known as dermophytes. The fungus will get under your toenail and start growing hence damaging the toe. The toe will discolor becoming yellow, brown or white. Although the fungal nail is painless, having them on your toe is uncomfortable. The following are various ways that can help you prevent toenail fungus. 1. Keep the toenails shortTrimming your toenails prevents the dirt particles building up. Additionally, it will minimize the risks of toenail injuries while makes you susceptible to the fungus. 2. Wear shoes that fit properlyShoes should not squeeze you toenail. Once the nail is pressed, it might crack hence becoming vulnerable to the fungus. Ensure that you alternate your shoes for them to air out before you wear them again. 3. Use anti-fugal powders or sprayBefore putting on your shoe, sprinkle or spray the product. Sweating in the shoe can prompt a fungal infection especially in hot weather. 4. Avoid walking barefoot in public areasAvoid being barefooted in public places such as locker rooms or pools. You can wear slippers or your flip flops as the fungi can be on the floor. 5. Do not share nail clippers, files or shoesOnce you go to a nail salon, ensure that they sanitize their tools thoroughly. If the salon does not disinfect the tools, move to the one that sanitizes them. Use your won foot baths to avoid the fungiThe toenail fungus is better prevented the treated. If you notice something strange with your nail, visit a dermatologist for a checkup.

Toe Nail Fungus

Toenail FungusIt is clinically known as Onychomycosis, and the causative agent is a fungus known as a dermatophyte. When the infection spreads to other areas like between toes and the skin of the feet, it is thus referred to as Athlete's foot. The onset of disease begins with a yellow spot sometimes white under the tip of the toenail. Progressively, the infection goes deeper leading to discoloration, thickening and nails crumbling at the edge and sometimes breaking. Additional symptoms may include foul smelling feet, distorted nails shapes, dark color due to debris and broken nails. Infection may spread to other nails. Usually, because toes are often damp and wet due to sweating, fungi thrive excellently. Personal hygiene is the most effective way of combating fungal infections. Treatment by a specialist may also be helpful, but fungal infections are known to be recurrent. The disease is most common in older adults and people who spend most of the time in water such as sea divers and surfers.