It is believed that half of all the diseases of the nails
are caused by fungi. The small fungi get beneath the beds of the nails and may
make the toenails brittle, dark, and at times smelly.
Anyone can get affected by toenail fungus, but
some individuals face greater risk. Overall health, gender, age, genetics— and numerous
everyday habits tend to play a very important role in causing toenail
infection. Here are a few common reasons for fungal infection, and how to
prevent it.
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| Image Courtesy:Pixabay |
Family
history:
Hereditary factors play a major role in a person’s
health. In case you have a history of fungal infections within your family, make
sure you take out time to analyze your feet regularly and see a podiatrist
promptly in case you doubt toenail fungus.
Toenail
fungus and boots
If you have a job that entails wearing boots for a longer
period of time then your job may put you in threat of a fungal infection. Such
shoes tend to create a sweaty, warm, environment which is conducive for the
development of toenail fungus. Any job that causes your feet to get sweaty or even
wet then it puts you at risk for a fungal infection. To reduce the susceptibility
towards toenail fungus, keep spare pairs of shoes or boots and let every pair dry
after it’s worn. Apart from this, make sure your socks are changed frequently to
ensure the feet stay dry.
Toenail
fungus and nail polish
While nail polish enhances the look of your
toe nails, it can also cause fungal infection. Strong nail polishes block light
and create an atmosphere conducive to the growth of fungus. Therefore, make
sure you avoid using nail paint from time to time.
If you can’t live without a pedicure, make
sure your salon sanitizes the tools properly before using them on you. Fingal
infection is contagious and can spread by using the same instruments as the
affected person. You may also want to keep your appointment during the first
half as instruments used for pedicure are normally the cleanest during the day.
Toenail
fungus and tight shoes:
Closed-toe shoes, particularly the ones that
are narrow from the front, can lead to foot trauma, weakening your nails and making
them prone to fungal infections. In case you have to wear a shoe, which is
closed from the front, choose a footwear that has enough space so that your toes
can move without effort. You can also choose shoes that help your feet breathe.
Any kind of open-toed flip-flop or shoe will permit air circulation which in
turn will help to prevent toenail fungus.
Toenail
fungus and locker rooms
If you swim, you should not worry that the chlorinated
pool may cause toenail fungus. The problem actually starts with the locker
room. Humid, wet areas are conducive for breeding of toenail fungal infections.
It is important to wear foot gear when using the locker rooms. Also, it is very
important to dry your feet properly after swimming and getting back into your
shoes.
With just a little caution, awareness and
regular visits to the podiatrist you can ensure that your feet
remain in good health all your life.
