Nail fungus is more common than you think. It usually starts as a yellowish spot under the tip of the fingernail or toenail and may affect one or more nails. Because the toes are often damp and warm, nail fungus is more common in the toenails.
Aside from looking yellowish, the infected nails are usually thicker than normal and can also break easily. When the fungus builds up under the nail, it becomes brittle and can separate from the nail bed.
How to prevent toenail fungus
To help prevent nail fungus, wash your feet regularly. Always wear dry, clean sock with good sweat absorbing properties. Replace old, worn-out shoes, choose ones that are made of breathable materials, and treat footwear with anti-fungal powders. Use footwear in public pool areas and locker rooms. Avoid sharing nail clippers with other people. If you need to go to a salon, make sure the instruments used such as nail clippers, scissors, etc are sterilized after each use.
Anyone can get fungal nails but people with athlete’s foot, diabetes, or weak immune system, or whose family members have it are at a higher risk.
Toenail fungus can resemble other conditions so it is best to see a podiatrist for proper evaluation.
GET RID OF YOUR FUNGAL NAILS TODAY
If left untreated, the infection can spread to the other nails as well as the skin. Sometimes, the nail changes can cause a significant amount of pain and discomfort. For people with diabetes, a minor foot injury, including fungal nail infection can lead to more serious problems and thus should be treated immediately. If you notice thickening, deformity, or discoloration in your toenails, visit your foot doctor. The earlier you seek professional treatment, the better the prognosis.
For more information on toenail fungus treatments, you may contact Dr. Kevin Lam’s office at (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or visit NaplesPodiatrist.com
Family Foot and Leg Center has several Centers from Collier, Lee, & Charlotte Counties to quickly resolve all your foot and ankle problems.
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Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimal Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling!