What’s worse than unwelcomed guests? Rowdy unwelcomed guests that refuse to leave! That’s the frustration that most people feel once toenail fungus has infected their feet.
Toenail fungus can affect the skin and nails of your feet and has a reputation for stubbornly sticking around. It can persist for decades if not managed appropriately.
The following recommendations are ways in which you can start getting rid of these pesky distressing guests that have made your feet their home.
1. Do something about it.
Many people feel so embarrassed by unsightly nails or skin on their feet that they tend to hide the problem. Unfortunately, constantly hiding their feet in socks and shoes will only worsen the existing problem. Luckily, podiatrists are experts in the subject and deal with this problem on a daily basis. They can provide the help that you need.
2. Change the environment of your feet.
Toenail Fungus, like all fungi, prefers dark, damp, and warm environments. Unfortunately, feet can provide the perfect environment that fungus thrives in.
Make sure you dry your feet thoroughly after showering, especially between the toes.
- Use socks that wick the moisture away from your feet. Socks with merino wool, bamboo socks, or socks with Drymax® or Coolmax® technologies are best for absorbing moisture.
- However, even the best socks are of little use if the shoe is not made of “breathable” materials. Avoid using shoes with plastic, rubber, or certain artificial leathers that do not have “pores” which allow the moisture to evaporate into the environment.
- Also, alternate between two pairs of shoes. Wear one pair while the other pair has a chance to “air out.” Once you get home kick off your shoes and socks and let your feet get exposed to air and light. If your feet continue to stay damp consider using an antiperspirant on your feet
3. Improve nail health.
Many people try to mask their discolored and thick toenails with nail polish. Unfortunately, this can worsen the existing problem since it decreases exposure to light and air. It can also trap moisture beneath the polish.
For patients who enjoy wearing polish Podiatrists can recommend medications that you can use along with your existing polish or recommend nail polish that contains anti-fungal properties.
If your toenail is thick due to a fungal infection don’t forget to file down the top of the nail to decrease the thickness. This will reduce the amount of fungus present and improve the penetration of any medication that is used.
4. Seek medical attention.
A podiatrist will assist you with diagnosing and treating your fungal infection. They will provide you with various options such as the use of topical medication, laser therapy, or oral medication. These treatments kill the fungus and keep it from replicating.
Keep in mind that the earlier a fungal infection is treated the quicker it is resolved. However, just because you have had a fungal infection for years does not mean that you are destined to have it for the rest of your life. Additionally, there are many medical conditions such as diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, psoriasis, and dermatitis that can complicate an existing fungal infection. These are best evaluated and treated by medical professionals.
5. Get ready to show the world your toes again!
I’ve had patients who have refused to go to the beach, pool, or spa with their friends and family for years due to the embarrassment of unsightly nails. All too often we hear our pleased patients saying, “I should have come to see you years ago.” So don’t put off treating your toenails any longer.
Have issues with nail fungus and need help getting it under control? The team of foot and ankle specialists at footankleinstitute.com is here for you. For an appointment, give us a call at (877) 736-6001 or click here to make an appointment online.
University Foot and Ankle Institute is conveniently located throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area as our foot doctors are available at locations in or near Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, West Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach, Northridge, Downtown Los Angeles, Westlake Village, Granada Hills, and Valencia, California.
When not tending to patients at University Foot and Ankle Institute, Dr. Jafary utilizes his surgical expertise assisting those less fortunate. As a member of the Yucatan Crippled Children Foundation, he has traveled to Mexico several times and performed hundreds of limb correction surgeries on children with disabling foot and ankle disorders. Dr. Jafary also participates in Podiatry Overseas, which takes him to underserved countries to treat patients with lower extremity deformities.
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I like the helpful info you supply for your articles. Keep up the great work!
Thank you, glad we can help!
Thanks for the tips. Useful info in understanding toenail fungus condition better.
Great article! Am i allowed to add this information in my website if adding a link back to yours?
Thanks in advance
If you link back to us, absolutely. I am glad you found it of value!