Toenail Fungus Treatment And Prevention Techniques
Toenail fungus is a common and embarrassing ailment that affects all kinds of people
. It is the same type of fungus that can causes athletes foot and can cause discomfort. Once the fungus is present, it is important to find a toenail fungus treatment that will be effective. Preventing toenail fungus can be easier than treating it.This fungus can be contracted in many ways. It thrives in damp, dark areas, and the nature of the foot itself can provide a perfect environment for it to grow. Simply wearing socks and shoes keeps feet damp, and allows the fungus to grow in darkness in and around the nail bed.
Toenail fungus can cause nails to become brittle, and yellowish or brown. The nail may become quite thick, and over time it can begin to crumble and fall off. This can cause pain, and due to the unsightly nature of the fungus, it can be embarrassing, causing the person afflicted to cover their feet up even more and hindering treatment.
Swimming pools, public showers and other moist areas are a perfect place for this fungus to be contracted. Wearing shoes or sandals when in these environments can help prevent contraction of nail fungus. Proper hygiene, and ensuring feet are clean and dry can also help. Wearing socks made of natural fibers instead of synthetic can allow the feet to breathe, and also help to draw moisture away from the feet. Wearing breathable shoes can also help.
There are conditions that can make people more likely to an infection. Issues with the skin such as abnormal levels of pH can make one more likely to pick up fungal infections. People with suppressed immune systems can contract it easily. Simple nail trauma can allow the fungus to enter the nail bed as well.
Seeing your doctor at the onset of an infection can help get rid of it quickly. Waiting can allow the fungal infection to worsen and not be treated as easily or effectively if it was caught earlier. Nail fungus can be very embarrassing, and many people delay seeing a physician due to this, but it is important to remember that it is a common infection, and your doctor knows how to deal with it.
Treatments are available without a prescription as well, however may not be as effective as those available from your doctor. Always carefully follow the directions to avoid further damage to your feet, and to ensure you are properly treating the issue.
Toenail fungus treatment can be as easy as prevention. However, if you find that you have issues with this ailment, ensure you take proper steps to remedy it. Use the preventive measures described above to prevent further infections, and ensure that you are taking steps to keep your feet clean, dry and free of fungus.
Don't be discouraged if treatment is not immediate or as fast as you expect it to be. Most toenail fungus treatments can take weeks to be effective. Following proper hygiene procedures and keeping toenails trimmed can help allow topical treatments to be more effective.
by: David Hughes