When toenail fungus attacks your feet, Dr. Michael Mitry and Dr. Christopher Karter at Advanced Podiatry of Needham in Needham, MA offer laser nail fungus and other effective treatment options.
7 Tips for Preventing Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus can be more than an irritation. It can cause the painful loss of a toenail. Like many conditions, prevention is key, so Dr. Mitry, Dr. Karter, and our team at Advanced Podiatry of Needham in Needham, MA share some of the most important preventative measures below.
1. Cleanliness is Vital
It’s no secret that bacteria grow in dirty, unkempt areas – which can certainly include the feet. Wash them every day, especially between the toes.
2. Moisture Can Be Brutal
It’s true that moisture is good for the skin, but not if it allows a fungus to thrive. Keep the skin between your toes clean and don’t put wet feet into shoes.
3. Let the Toes Breathe
If you love to keep color on your toes through nail polish, you’ll need to take breaks between coats. This gives your toenails the chance to recuperate from any chemicals.
4. Keep Your Nails Trimmed
Long toenails give fungi a place to hide and breed. Keep them trimmed, leaving a little white at the top to prevent ingrown toenails.
5. Be Stingy With Supplies and Footwear
Sharing is caring, but you don’t want to share a fungal infection. As toenail fungus is highly contagious, it’s important to keep your socks, shoes, and nail care items to yourself. And avoid using anyone else’s.
6. Be Selective With Socks and Shoes
Again, moisture can provide a breeding ground for fungus. Choose socks and shoes made from breathable materials to help keep your feet dry.
7. Be Smart in Public
Public pools, locker rooms, and similar spaces are shared by many people – and very wet. Don’t go barefoot in these areas. Protect your feet with water or shower shoes.
Prevention is best, but there is always a risk of developing toenail fungus. If you do notice any symptoms, early intervention can prevent the condition from developing into a serious one. Laser nail fungus treatment with Dr. Mitry and Dr. Karter can kill the fungus in the early stages and keep your toenails growing healthy.
From toenail fungus prevention to laser nail fungus treatment, our team at Advanced Podiatry of Needham is here for you. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Mitry or Dr. Karter in Needham, MA by calling (781) 444-4044.