Tips on Preventing Fungal Toenail Infections
While fungal toenail infections don’t usually cause much pain and discomfort in the early stages, as the problem progresses, the nails will become discolored and brittle, and a foul odor is often emitted as the fungi feed on your skin, oils, and sweat. Early treatment of fungal toenail infections will help prevent the need for complete toenail removal surgery, so be sure to see our expert Foot and Ankle Doctors.
Common Treatment Tips for Preventing Toenail Fungus:
Debriding / Shaving the toenail: Antifungals are more effective when the toenail is thinned with a debriding tool so the medication can penetrate more deeply.
Removal of damaged and infected nails: In advanced cases, the toenail is so severely damaged that complete removal is necessary. The healthier toenail will eventually grow in place once the nail bed receives treatment.
Topical or oral medications: variety of sprays and powders containing antifungal medication are applied directly to your feet and the inside of your shoes to help control the spread. The most effective treatment is oral medications.
Avoid nail fungus infections by protecting your feet: Avoiding the microbes causing the infections in the first place can be achieved by protecting your feet from contact. Be sure to wear shower shoes or sandals, especially in public locker rooms, gym, and pool areas.
If you are experiencing the signs of fungal toenail infection, see your foot doctor for comprehensive care and help prevent a recurrence. Schedule an appointment with Podiatry Foot & Ankle Institute, located in Hackensack and Fort Lee, NJ. With access to leading edge treatments and technologies, Our Podiatrists can help you manage all of your foot and ankle conditions, including sports foot and ankle injuries, toe deformities, heel pain, sprains, tendinitis, fractures, toenail fungus, ingrown nails and plantar warts. Call our podiatry offices or book an appointment online today.
