Stand Strong Against Painful Toenail Infections

Your feet take the brunt of everything, bearing the weight of your entire body

. Toenails are prone to infections that are often painful. Some nails can be conservatively treated with topical or oral medications while others may require partial or total removal of the nail. Any discoloration or infection on or about the nail should be evaluated by your podiatrist in Scottsdale.

Toenail infections are usually unsightly and uncomfortable. In some cases they can lead to further infection and problems with your feet with most toenail infections being fungal. If your toenail has a fungal infection, it tends to disfigure the nails, but can also cause you physical pain and may impair your ability to work. With proper prevention, you can avoid painful toenail infections.

Fungal Toenails

Many people may not realize that they have a fungal nail problem, which prevents them from seeking proper treatment for their ailment. Fungal toenail infections are common foot health problems that can persist for years without ever causing any pain. Also referred to as onychomycosis, fungal nails are often characterized by a change in a toenail's color, which is often considered nothing more than a blemish. If left untreated, it can present serious problems with your feet.

This condition is an infection underneath the surface of the nail caused by fungi. When the tiny organisms take hold, the nail often becomes darker in color and foul smelling. If ignored, the infection can potentially spread and possibly impair one's ability to work or even walk. This happens because the resulting thicker nails are difficult to trim and make walking painful when wearing shoes.

To prevent fungal toenail infections follow these simple guidelines:

Maintain proper hygiene and inspect your feet and toes regularly

Clean and dry feet resist disease and infection

Wash your feet with soap and water (remember to dry thoroughly)

Shower shoes should be worn in public areas

Shoes, socks, or hosiery should be changed more than once daily

Toenails should be clipped straight across

Wear shoes that fit well and are made of materials that breathe

Disinfect instruments used to cut nails

Don't apply polish to nails suspected of an infection

Ingrown Toenails

The most common nail impairment is ingrown toenails, which involves a nail's corners or sides to dig painfully into the soft tissue of nail groves, leading to irritation, redness, swelling, and even infection. Toenails typically grow straight out, but sometimes one or both corners tend to curve and grow into your skin. Your big toe tends to usually be the victim of ingrown toenails, but other toenails may be affected as well.

Ingrown toenails can be caused by:Improperly trimmed nailsHeredityShoe pressureRepeated trauma to the feet from normal activitiesIf you suspect you have an infection contact your Scottsdale podiatrist for further consultation and diagnosis. Your podiatrist will be able to diagnosis your infection and provide proper treatment options for your toes, restoring your feet back to proper health.by: Gen Wright

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