Nail Fungus Prevention

If you need treatment for nail fungus in Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, or Niceville, FL, put your feet in the hands of Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi at Emerald Coast Podiatry.

Tips for Preventing Nail Fungus

Nail fungus can be annoying and uncomfortable. Fortunately, by following a few steps, most people can avoid the condition.

Wear Proper Footwear

Wearing shoes that are too tight leads to more heat and sweat – two things fungus loves. Be sure to choose shoes that fit well, and opt for moisture-wicking socks. Additionally, keep a couple of pairs of shoes so that you can wash a pair after they’ve gotten sweaty or dirty.

Never Share Footwear

The last thing you want is to spread your foot fungus or pick up someone else’s. The best way to prevent this is to keep your shoes to yourself and not wear anyone else’s.

Always Wear Shoes in Public

Gym, pool, and locker room floors are warm and wet, making them a welcome environment for nail fungus in Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, and Niceville, FL. Be sure you always wear flip-flops or shower shoes so that you don’t pick them up in public.

Stay Dry and Clean 

Keeping your feet clean and dry is one of the most essential steps in preventing nail fungus. Follow these tips for the best results:

  • Wash your feet with soap and water each day.
  • Dry completely, including between the toes.
  • Change your socks daily or more often if they get wet.

Apply Foot Powder

Applying medicated foot powder after a shower can help your feet stay dry and protected from fungus. You can also use cornstarch, but the medicated powder is best.

Keep Your Nails Trimmed

An injury to your toenail can increase the risk of infection. Keeping your nails trimmed straight across can minimize the chance of injury. Be sure that you do not cut them too short, however, as this can lead to an ingrown toenail.

Use Anti-Fungal Cream

You can purchase an anti-fungal cream over-the-counter that can help fight foot fungus. However, if the OTC option doesn’t help, there are prescription creams as well.

Laser Treatment for Fungus

Using a controlled laser, your podiatrist will heat the toenail to effectively kill the bacteria causing the fungus. The laser itself allows for the tissues and skin to remain unharmed.

Visit Your Podiatrist

One of the best preventative methods is to regularly visit Dr. Ricciardi. In doing so, he can help you watch for signs that fungus is showing up or returning. By catching it early, you can address it early and potentially prevent it.

Achieve relief from nail fungus in Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, or Niceville, FL by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Ricciardi at Emerald Coast Podiatry. Call the Fort Walton office at (850) 862-4119 or the Crestview office at (850) 682-6522 today.

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Crestview Office

Fort Walton Beach Office

Hours of Operation

Monday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:30 am-4:00 pm

Thursday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-4:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed