Nail fungus: How Can I Prevent It?

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In spite of how frustrating nail fungus may seem, you're not alone! About 3 to 12 percent of the population is affected by the disease.

All-In-One Foot Care Center's podiatrists can help determine whether you have a fungal infection or another skin issue under your nails.

In order to better understand nail fungus, why it might keep recurring, and how to prevent it, let's examine its causes.

Nail fungus: how does it form?

Nail fungus is caused when the skin is infected with fungi, yeast, or mold. Toenails are more likely to become discolored, thickened, cracked, or brittle with athletes' foot than fingernails do. The symptoms include white, brown, or yellow spots. The infection can cause pain if left untreated.

Many factors can lead to nail fungus, including tight shoes, damaged nails, walking barefoot in damp environments such as pools, saunas, and public showers, poor blood circulation in your legs, a compromised immune system, and conditions such as psoriasis. It is even possible that you are genetically predisposed to nail fungus.

A foot examination by Dr. Arshia Roohian at All-In-One Foot Care Center will identify the problem and determine the best treatment.

Do you have any advice on how to prevent nail fungus from returning?

It is more likely that you will get infected again if your feet are exposed to the same environment where they were previously infected. Make sure your feet are thoroughly cleaned and dried after walking in public pools and showers. Wear flip-flops or other appropriate shower shoes instead of walking barefoot.

Before you treat yourself to a pedicure, make sure it's clean, licensed, and meets state standards. What is the nail technician's equipment? Is it sterilized between uses? If not, you may develop nail fungus on your toes. Discover your new favorite place now!

If you stopped using antifungal creams or polishes when your nails became healthier, you may be experiencing nail fungus recurrence. Despite the appearance of the fungus being gone, there may still be some present that cannot be seen. If treatment continues too soon, remnant fungi may grow, causing a new infection to appear.

Follow your doctor's instructions and continue using over-the-counter nail polish or cream after the appearance of a healthy nail.

For nail fungus prevention, nail hygiene goes without saying. When going to the neighborhood pool or gym locker room, make sure you have protective footwear. Make sure your feet are clean and dry. Do not wear shoes that are too tight or do not fit properly.

You can contact our office at 949-588-8833 , or visit our website at https://www.ocfootdoctor.com/ Our offices are located in Laguna Hills, Irvine, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Foothill Ranch, and Costa Mesa.