There is a link between diabetics and toenail fungus susceptibility and people with this disease are encouraged to take very special care of their skin in order to prevent complications. Diabetics find it difficult to heal quickly and efficiently, so any wounds, nicks, scratches and openings in the skin must be treated with care immediately. Since toenail fungal infection starts with an opening in the skin and causes tiny wounds on the infected area, people with diabetes are far more susceptible to other complications associated with the issue. So how do diabetics treat toenail fungus and what can be done to cure and prevent it?
How Do You Get Infected with Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is a type of fungi that thrives in damp, moist and warm environments, so they are common in places such as public baths, showers, swimming pools, spas and saunas. All the fungus needs is a tiny opening in the skin of the toes in order to cause an infection. Initially, the infected toenail will exhibit a white or yellowish spot which may spread out throughout the toenail and to nearby nails. The infected toenail will begin to thicken and become brittle, jagged, crumbly and deformed, causing pain and embarrassment.
Why Diabetics Should Treat Toenail Fungus Immediately
One of the most common risk factors of toenail fungal infection is diabetes. Since diabetics have a weakened immune system, they are more vulnerable to an infection than healthy individuals. Their condition also makes the problem worse – since diabetics heal very slowly, they are at a higher risk of becoming re-infected. They often have to face longer and more intensive forms of antifungal treatments in order to eradicate or at least get their infection under control.
Preventing Toenail Fungus
The most important thing that people who have diabetes should consider is that preventing toenail fungal infection is a lot better than getting it treated. Keeping feet clean and dry makes them undesirable environments for microorganisms to grow. Rotating closed footwear is also a good practice to prevent moisture from forming on the insides. Wearing rubber sandals and flip-flops at the pool, spas and public showers will also help protect one’s feet from becoming infected. Sharing personal items such as shoes, sandals and towels with a person who has a toenail infection is also a big no-no.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
If infection is already present, it is a good idea to seek professional treatment right away. Fungal infections are usually treated by topical gels and ointments that contain antifungal or fungicidal ingredients. These remedies might fail to get rid of the problem, if that happens, you can count on us at Cleartoes Clinic to get rid of the toenail fungus for you. We use modern lasers which are operated by experts who have undergone the necessary training. If you have toenail fungus and would like to get rid of it, contact us today for a free consultation.
