Preventing And Treating Toenail Fungus

Submitted by: genwright

Toenail fungus is a nail disorder that affects nearly 20 percent of the population and is one of the most common foot ailments attended by podiatrists. Characterized by thick, disfigured, yellow nails, left untreated the disorder can cause the nail to grow fragile, brittle and loose, and in some cases, crumble away. In the most severe cases, fungus-infected nails may even cause pain or difficulty walking.

Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and can spread from person to person. Like athlete's foot, you can contract a fungal nail infection from simply walking barefoot in public showers or pools, or by sharing nail clippers or shoes. Fungal infections can also infect fingernails, but toenails are more difficult to treat as toenails typically grow slower.

Treatment for Fungal Nails

Left untreated, toenail fungus won't go away and is often very difficult to get rid of. In fact, it will only progress and you may lose your nail. Over-the-counter antifungal creams are available, but often ineffective and your nail fungus will recur.

Treatment for toenail fungus should be administered by your podiatrist in Nicholasville as fungus-infected nails can lead to other serious infections and spread beyond your feet. He can prescribe a stronger topical or oral medication, and depending on the type and severity of the infection, remove the diseased nail matter. In severe cases, the nail will need to be surgically removed in order to fully eradicate the infection.

Preventing Pesky Nail Fungus

o Wear shower shoes at public pools and locker rooms
o Never share nail clippers or files
o Wear dry shoes that allow air to circulate around your feet
o Avoid injury to your nail, such as cutting it too short
o Inspect your feet and toes regularly
o Trim your toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenail infections
o Wear open-toed shoes if weather permits
o Avoid wearing nail polish and disinfect pedicure tools
o Wear clean, dry cotton socks that provide breathing room and whisk away moisture

Are You at Risk for Nail Fungus?

Fungal infections are typically more common in older adults, and the chances of contracting nail fungus increases with age. Additionally, men tend to be affected by nail fungus more than women.

Other factors that increase your risk of developing toenail fungus include:
o Walking barefoot in public places, such as locker rooms and pools
o Being diabetic, having poor blood circulation or weak immune system
o Injury to the nail
o Working in humid conditions
o Wearing poorly ventilated socks and shoes that don't absorb perspiration

Toenail fungus is difficult to treat, so prevention is key to avoiding this common foot condition. Keep your feet clean and dry, and if you suspect toenail fungus, see your podiatrist in London and Nicholasville right away for treatment. He can recommend the best course and strength of treatment in order to eliminate the fungus and keep it from coming back.

About the Author

Dr. Paul Krestik, DPM and Daniel Albertson, ARNP are founding partners of Bluegrass Regional Foot & Ankle Associates. Dr. Krestik is a leading podiatrist in London and Nicholasville, offering years of experience and extensive treatment for various foot ailments and conditions, including toenail fungus, ankle pain, ingrown toenails and heel pain in Nicholasville.

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