Fungal toenail infections are painful and are caused by various fungal organisms with the most common type being dermatophyte. As your foot doctor serving Bronzeville, Mitchell Foot & Ankle wants to make sure you have all the information to avoid this type of infection.
Keep Your Toenails Short
When you trim your toenails short, it helps prevent debris from building up under your nails. Short toenails will minimize the risk of nail injuries, but make sure you are cutting the nail straight across to avoid ingrown toenails. When it comes time to clip your toenails, don’t use or share anyone else’s nail clippers or files—purchase a set for only you to use.
Wear Proper Shoes
If your toenails are touching the tips of your shoes, the shoes don’t fit properly. Make sure your toes have breathable room in any shoe you wear and you alternate your footwear, allowing them to air out between each use. Additionally, never wear someone else’s shoes.
Use Antifungal Sprays or Powders
Sprinkling or spraying antifungals in your shoes and your socks before putting them on helps control sweat that may cause fungal infections. If you work out often, using antifungal sprays or powders can help you avoid fungi.
Avoid Going Barefoot In Public Facilities
Whether you’re walking around in a locker room or showering at your gym, make sure you wear shower shoes or flip-flops. The fungus can cause athlete’s foot, ringworm, and other skin conditions and this fungus can be on the floor of locker rooms and other public places.
Visit your foot doctor servicing Bronzeville if you think you may have a fungal toenail infection. We are a dedicated team, providing you with high-level care to patients of all ages.