The fungus that causes common toenail infection can be found everywhere. It is out there just waiting to latch onto anyone given half the chance and it will be incredibly hard to get rid of once it has settled. People need months of treatment to break free of it. Spare yourself the nightmare of constant itching and ugly nails by following these strategies to avoid toenail fungus:
1. Keep Your Feet Dry
This fungus likes moist surfaces. It is more likely to grow on skin that is perennially wet so keep your feet dry if you wish to lower your risk of infection. Try to avoid excessive sweating around the feet and pat them dry as soon as possible if they ever get wet such as after swimming, taking a bath, and getting soaked in the rain.
2. Don’t Share Personal Items With Anyone
One of the rules for good personal hygiene is to have your own set of personal items. This minimizes the chance of passing on or picking up skin diseases and other equally disturbing conditions. Carry your own towel so that you never have to borrow from others. Don’t let others use yours.
3. Avoid Walking Barefoot
Toenail fungus, germs, and bacteria could be anywhere. Many of them are lurking on the ground. Walking barefoot, especially in public places, is simply asking for trouble. Other infected people may have already spread the disease around without knowing it.
4. Wear Comfortable Shoes
In hot climates, it is advisable to use shoes that have thin and porous uppers such as mesh material for optimum breathability. This keeps the feet cool, preventing the build-up of sweat. Wear shoes that provide enough room for the toes to wiggle for comfort and ventilation.
5. Train In Clean Places
Choose your training spots carefully. Go to a water sports facility that regularly maintains its pools and shower areas. Pick a gym with clean mats if you have to go barefoot for dance or yoga classes. Inspect the premises and make sure that they have neat locker rooms as well.
6. Use Anti-Fungal Foot Powder
A lot of foot powders are formulated to combat the adverse effects of sweating for athletes and other active individuals. They absorb moisture so the feet stay dry and comfortable throughout the day. They may also have active ingredients that stop fungal growth at the outset.
7. Take Good Care Of Your Health
Among the best ways to avoid toenail fungus is to stay fit and healthy. A robust immune system can fight off an infection on its own. Conversely, compromised immunity increases the risk of disease. Diabetics and people with other chronic conditions are known to be especially susceptible to fungal infections. Their cases are harder to treat than average because of complications. Eat well, get enough sleep, and get plenty of exercise to ward off fungus attacks.
