Had you a previous idea that almost 50% of all nail disorders result from fungi? These fungi are tiny and stealthily enter and reside beneath your nail beds and can make your toenails brittle, dark and sometimes even stinky.
Image Courtesy: modpodpodiatry.com.au
Although toenail fungus can attack the nails of literally anyone, some people are at a higher risk of falling prey to them.
Moreover, some other factors like age, overall health, genetics, gender and several simple daily habits also play a role in the buildup of toenail fungus.
Can keeping away from these risk factors and everyday habits save you from toenail fungal infection? The answer is “Yes”!
Although a podiatrist Sydney CBD from ModPod Podiatry can save you from this infection, why shouldn’t you avoid these risk factors and thereby from these infections in the first place?
Here are major risk factors that can cause toenail fungal infection so that you can be extra careful.
Certain chronic health conditions can increase the risk of toenail fungal infection.
These include diabetes, HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), poor circulation or any other health condition; they may weaken your immune system or meddle with the blood supply of your toes.
So, if you are suffering from a chronic health condition, be extra cautious to keep your feet always clean and dry.
Even your job may put you into the danger of a toenail fungal infection, particularly if you need to wear heavy, sturdy boots that have poor ventilation.
Such boots form a warm, humid environment inside them which is perfect for toenail fungus to thrive.
Any profession that causes the workers’ feet to become wet and/or sweaty puts the worker in the danger of developing toenail fungal infection.
Microbes that cause both athlete’s foot and toenail fungus grow and flourish in dark, humid spots.
This risk can be reduced by alternating several pairs of work boots and let every pair dry out after wearing.
It’s also important to change your socks often, even during the workday, so as to keep feet dry.
You may be surprised to know that the nail polishes that make your nail look beautiful can cause toenail fungus.
This is because intensely dark nail polishes tend to block light, forming an environment more favourable for fungal growth. So, it’s necessary to give your toenails a regular break from nail polishes.
If you regularly go to salons for pedicures, remember that toenail fungus can be transferred through nail files and clippers. Hence it’s important to make sure that the salon is applying proper hygiene.
It’s also a good idea to reach the salon early in the morning when all the tools are the cleanest.
If you visit a public swimming pool regularly, you don’t need to worry about the chlorinated water of the pool elevating your risk of toenail fungus, but the locker room is a different story.
Humid, wet areas are great breeding grounds for toenail fungus. Therefore you should always wear foot gear while entering showers and locker rooms.
Also, don’t forget to dry your feet completely after swimming as well as showering and before wearing back your regular shoes.
Toenail fungal infection is a common health issue for runners. It’s because distant runners sweat a lot. Their sweaty socks and tight running shoes form an ideal humid environment for toenail fungus to thrive.
Consider using special socks that will wick away moisture and keep your feet dry. Alternating running shoes and letting every pair dry out totally between wearings is also a good idea.
You can get specialised nail fungus treatment at ModPod Podiatry; but try to keep yourself safe from this infection and be happy!
