subject: Toenail Fungus Infection - Catch It Early [print this page] You've probably heard that, the earlier to catch a toenail fungus infection, the faster you'll be able to get rid of it. But how do you know if what you have is actually a toenail fungus? You don't want to run off to the doctor only to be told that the white spot on your toenail is something completely benign. But, at the same time, you don't want to let that spot become a festering infection before you do anything about it, anyway. You've got to find the middle ground. But, when it comes to a toenail fungal infection, it's better safe than sorry.
The best advice is always to avoid getting a toenail fungus infection in the first place. If you keep your feet clean and dry, you'll likely be able to prevent infection. Keeping your toenails neat and trimmed helps a lot, too. And if you have to get your feet wet, be sure to wear sandals in common wet areas such as gym showers or pool decks. These are places where fungi love to hide out, so limiting your contact with surfaces that you aren't sure are clean is your best bet towards avoiding a fungal infection in the first place.
But if you've done everything you can and you still notice a telltale spot on your toenail, give it a few days. But don't just leave it. Examine it carefully every day. Keep track of any changes to the size of the spot. If it begins to grow bigger or if it changes color, you might have a toenail fungus infection. If it begins to shrink or fade, then you probably don't have anything to worry about. But you should probably keep a close eye on it until it disappears altogether, just in case. You don't want to risk ignoring it only to find that it's grown in the meantime.
And if that dreaded spot does grow and start turning yellowish, get to a doctor right away. The doctor should be able to confirm for you whether or not it's a toenail fungus infection. If it is, he or she might prescribe treatment or recommend an over-the-counter treatment for you. At that point, it's important for you to be as vigilant as possible in keeping your toenail under treatment at all times. After all, the earlier you're able to catch the infection, the easier it will be to treat.
