What is a toenail fungus infection? It is important to know the signs of the infection to be able to best diagnose this problem. Once the problem is identified you may look for the bests treatment option for you.
Fungal Infection Explained
Fungal infections occur when fungal spores infect a nail or the nail bed which is the skin under the nails. Fungus usually penetrates the nails into the skin through small cuts or openings. These openings are usually caused by trauma. Our nails are thin barriers and can easily be invaded when an opening emerges. When trauma occurs in the nail by hitting it against a tough object the nail might lift or become cracked. For example, a barrier opens beneath the nail causing the nail to be vulnerable to infections. Keeping your nails clean and dry is vital. Making the nails less prone to weakening and brittleness, and ultimately, toenail fungus.
Progression of Nail Fungus
Toenail fungus, although external, often affects individuals internally over time. When a nail first appears, it begins to form fungal spores, which happen almost immediately. Once the spores are alive they begin to multiply to other parts of the nail, begin forming on the adjacent nails, and form on the surrounding skin as well thus, giving the fungi a place of potential residence of their choice. This often results in the nails becoming discolored, thinning/thickening, and causing pain.
Protecting your Toenails
It doesn’t matter if you want to get rid of your existing nail fungus infection or prevent from getting one, the following can help you:
- Always wear socks that wick away perspiration. Also, change socks often.
- Use antifungal spray inside your shoes to kill any fungus living there.
- Wear shoes that let your feet breathe, do not wear shoes that are too tight.
- Always wear flip-flops or sandals in all public areas including hotels, pools, gyms, and locker rooms.
Finding the Best Treatment for you
If you have nail fungus you’ll want to try to figure out why you’ve become infected. And you’ll need to learn how to avoid doing that same thing again to keep another infection from forming. Then you should learn about all of the different toenail fungus treatment options. Some popular treatment options include topical medication, oral pills, and laser treatments. Upon which you will find that laser treatment is the most effective treatment option with the least side effects.
Podiatrists are the perfect source of toenail fungus advice since many of them have diagnosed and successfully treated countless cases of toenail fungus. Our offices are located nationwide and you may easily find a clinic near you by calling us today. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with one of our podiatrists. We have over 150 clinics nationwide, including Charlotte, NC.
