Preventing Toenail Fungus



You cannot eradicate an established fungal infection, but you can prevent its spread and improve the appearance of your toenails. An infected big toenail.

Fungus on the toenails isn't a serious health issue. But a fungal infection can damage the appearance of your nails and cause pain as it pulls your nails out of their beds. It is notoriously hard to cure a fungal infection. A fungal infection of the toenails is often better managed than cured.

How do fungi infect the nail?

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is an invasion caused by a microscopic organism that thrives in warm, damp environments. There are fungi in the air, and if they land on a receptive surface like your toenail, they will grow. Burrowing into the skin under the nail, they feed off the nail tissues. As fungal debris accumulates, the nail thickens and may lift off the nail bed. Whenever you lift your nail off the nail bed, it will not reattach, and it won't allow a new nail to grow there. A new nail will, however, grow from the base.

Identifying toenail fungus

The appearance of fungal infections can be deceiving. As we age, our nails become thicker and yellower. Nail flaking and skin flaking are common symptoms of psoriasis. Undernails may bruise after an injury. It is said that nail polish contains chemicals that discolor nails. Toenail growth shouldn't be put off until it is gnarly and raised from the nail bed. As soon as you notice that your nail is changing, you should speak with a health care professional.

You can only be sure that fungus is responsible for your nail distortion if you scrape your toenail in a laboratory. When you misdiagnose toenail fungus, you could waste time and money trying over-the-counter products that won't help.

Toenail protection

Here are some suggestions for treating and preventing fungal infections.

  • If you sweat a lot, wear socks that wick moisture away. Contrary to popular belief, acrylic is better at absorbing moisture than cotton.
  • Apply foot powder containing antifungal properties daily.
  • Do not wear shoes that prevent your feet from breathing or that press on your nails.
  • When showering at a gym or swimming pool, wear flip-flops or sandals to prevent infection.


Treatments for toenail fungus

For fungal infections, there are numerous treatments that vary widely in cost and effectiveness. Generally, an antifungal drug needs to penetrate the nail and often the nail bed as well in order to be effective.

Medications are sold over the counter. The same kind of brush used for polishing can be used to apply antifungal preparations on and under the nail.

Fungal nails can be improved by using these products, but they do not cure the condition. It is not clear which product is superior.

Are you ready to schedule an appointment? All-in-One Foot Care Center is here to help! 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.

📲 949-588-8833

🏢 24331 El Toro Rd, Suite 370 Laguna Woods CA 92637

🌐 https://www.ocfootdoctor.com/


Friday, June 24, 2022