Toenail Fungus Infection
Toenail fungus infection is a problem that is suffered by an estimated 35 million people in the United States and many more millions around the globe. Also known as Onychomycosis, toenail fungus is caused by a small organism called a Dermatophyte.
Toenail Fungus Infection Thrives Inside Shoes
Dermatophytes thrive in dark and damp places and that makes the inside of your shoes and your toenail area a perfect place for them to grow.
Toenail fungus infection is also highly contagious. This is one of the reasons that it is so hard to eliminate. Any exposure to areas like swimming pool decks, gym floors, or contaminated shoes or towels can result in you catching toenail fungus.
If you think that you might have toenail fungus, it’s important to make sure and check with your doctor because there are some other conditions like skin psoriasis that have similar symptoms. Some of the more common signs of fungus infection are yellow, brown, or black nails that become cracked or brittle, and sometimes separate from the nail bed.
Protecting Yourself from Toenail Fungus Infection
1. Stay away from danger areas when you are barefooted. Flip flops should be worn in public areas like pools, gyms, showers, and any place where the fungus might be lingering.
2. Never share shoes or towels with other people and that includes family members.
3. Wash your feet daily with some kind of antifungal soap and make sure that they are completely dry before you put on any shoes. You can also apply foot powder or spray.
4. Keep your nails cut short and straight across the top. This will promote new nail growth, give less nail debris for the Dermatophytes, and lessen the chances of ingrown toenails or other nail trauma.
5. Rotate your shoes every other day if possible and change your socks frequently to avoid dampness and prime breeding ground for fungus.
6. Utilize an antifungal oil based solution like melaleuca oil or thymol, or get a product like Zetaclear or Fungisil that includes those oils and others to help kill toenail fungus.
7. Check with your doctor for potential over the counter or prescription options for severe or repeat toenail fungus. This is especially important if you have Diabetes or some other medical condition.
