Are you dealing with nail fungus? Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi and the team at Emerald Coast Podiatry of Crestview, Niceville, and Fort Walton Beach, FL, can help determine the best course of action for relief.

How to Prevent Nail Fungus

Fungal nail infections are all too common and can lead to discomfort, pain, and embarrassment. This is unfortunate, as they can typically be prevented with just a few steps. Below, Dr. Ricciardi and the team at Emerald Coast Podiatry of Crestview, Niceville, & Fort Walton Beach, FL explain nail fungus, where it comes from, and how to prevent it.

What Causes Fungal Nail Infections?

Fungi are present in various places we frequent – especially in public showers at the gym. That’s because those areas are warm and moist, which allows the fungus to thrive. However, they are not the only places in which fungus grows.

When you are exposed to such fungus, it can enter even the smallest cracks in the skin or nails and spread. Though anyone can get a fungal nail infection, those with diabetes, weak immunity, nail or foot injuries, or poor blood circulation are at a higher risk.

Tips for Preventing Fungal Nail Infections

Most cases of nail infections can be prevented with just a few steps, including those below.

Trim Your Nails Carefully and Properly

It’s imperative to keep your nails trimmed for many reasons, including limiting the area the fungus has to grow. However, if you’re not careful, you could damage the skin around your nails, giving fungus a way in. Carefully trim your nails straight, leaving a little white at the top. Do not cut your cuticles.

Wear Shoes In Public Hot Spots

Wear shoes if you go to the gym, pool, or similar area. This includes when using the showers and walking around the pool.

Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry

Wash your feet well daily to prevent infection, but don’t scrub too hard. Use a nail brush to get beneath the toenails.

Additionally, it’s essential to keep your feet dry. Pat them dry after showers. If they get wet during the day, change your socks and shoes. You might also consider wearing breathable shoes and socks.

Keep Your Foot and Nail Gear to Yourself

Don’t share socks, shoes, nail clippers, or other tools with others. It’s easy to spread infections this way, even if you don’t realize you have one.

Dr. Ricciardi and Dr. Patel at Emerald Coast Podiatry of Crestview, Niceville, & Fort Walton Beach, FL are dedicated to helping you prevent and eliminate nail fungus. Call us today at (850) 682-6522 for our Crestview office and (850) 862-4119 for our Fort Walton Beach office for an appointment.