When it comes to your feet, there is one topic that people don’t really like to talk about – fungus. Fungus has a negative connotation because many believe it implies that someone has dirty or unclean feet, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Regularly washing your feet helps to prevent toenail fungus, but there are plenty of other factors that also contribute to the condition. Today, we share four tips for preventing the development of toenail fungus.
Toenail Fungus Infection
Toenail fungus – medically termed as onychomycosis – can set in when trauma effects the nail or when conditions are ideal for fungal growth. Symptoms of the condition include toenail discoloration, breaking or crumbling nails, or nail brittleness. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult with a foot specialist right away to get it cleared up.
However, we always say that prevention is better than treating a condition, so here are four tips to help prevent the onset of toenail fungus:
1. Clean and Dry – Toenail fungus flourishes in environments that are warm and moist, so do your best to keep your feet in an opposite state, which is clean and dry. Take your socks off when possible to facilitate airflow to your feet, and make sure you are keeping your shoes dry, especially your winter boots or running shoes. These shoes are exposed to more moisture from snow and sweat, and if your feet get hot in the shoes, your nail bed will be a warm and moist area for fungus to develop.
2. Swapping Socks – Another good habit to get into is to change your socks frequently. Our body regulates temperature through our feet, and sometimes this can lead to dampness and wetness if your socks are restricting this process. Make it a habit to change your socks at least once throughout the day, or simply kick off your socks and shoes when you get home. If you like the feel of socks, invest in socks with a moisture-wicking design.
3. Suitable Shoes – Another reason some people develop toenail fungus is because they don’t have the right pair of shoes. If your shoes are too tight or they don’t allow enough room for your toes to breath, your nails can be injured and make it easier for fungus to get under the nail. Tight shoes can also limit foot breathability and lead to warm and moist conditions. Finding a pair of shoes that fits your foot properly is key to preventing the onset of toenail fungus.
4. Toenail Trimming – When trimming your nails, make sure you cut the nail straight across. If you round the edges, you may be opening yourself up to an ingrown toenail or a nail bed infection. Avoid sharing nail clippers or other filing tools to, as they can be a hotbed for fungal growth. Trimmed nails reduce the likelihood of suffering an injury to the nail bed as well.