It’s a proven fact that certain groups of individuals are more likely to undergo nail fungus treatment, at some point in their lives. If you happen to fall into one of these groups, there’s no need to panic. Even though fungal nail infection accounts for roughly half of all nail abnormalities, a small percentage (6% – 8%) of adults actually get it.
Risk Factors
You have a higher chance of getting toenail fungus, if any of these things apply to you.
- You wear tight footwear
- You have poor blood circulation
- You work in a moist environment
- You perspire heavily
- You walk barefoot in public places such as pools and the gym
- You wear shoes and socks that don’t provide adequate ventilation
- You have AIDS or diabetes
- You take cancer-related drugs
- You have a family history of toenail fungus
How You Can Lower Your Risk
There are many things you can do to lower the risk of getting a fungal nail infection. For example, if you frequent public pools or the local gym, don’t walk around barefooted. Fungi thrives in damp places.
If you step where someone with toenail fungus has stepped before you, chances are high that you’ll take the problem home with you. Reducing the possibility of this happening is simple. Buy an inexpensive pair of flip-flops.
If you wear tight footwear or nylon socks, now’s the perfect time to change your habits. Both of these things cause your feet to sweat. This creates the perfect environment for fungus to grow.
Think about purchasing shoes with a wider toe box. Cotton socks are preferred over nylon and wool socks are preferred over cotton. Wool wicks moisture away from the skin, which makes it the best choice.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that you need to stop wearing more stylish shoes altogether. Alternating between the two choices gives your feet some time to breathe.
Additional ways to prevent fungal nail infection include:
- Limit the use of nail polish
- Avoid wearing someone else’s shoes and socks
- Use anti-fungal sprays
- Cut your nails short
Diagnosis Process Before Nail Fungus Treatment
There are several signs and symptoms of fungal nail infection. However, it’s possible to get a professional diagnosis before you start treatment. A specimen is removed from under the affected nail or nails. The doctor then tests this debris, by doing a simple culture.
If you prefer to make a self-diagnosis, look for these signs:
- Crumbly nails
- A foul odor
- A nail that is separating from the nail bed underneath
- Redness or swelling
Remember, just because you fall into one of the categories listed above, doesn’t mean that you’re going to get toenail fungus. It means that the likelihood is higher than that of the general population.
If you think your dealing with a nail infection, it’s best to start nail fungus treatment as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the worse it gets and the harder it is to get rid of.
