Dealing with nail fungus is challenging enough. But what you need to understand is that the nail fungus can spread and affect your skin as well. Just how does it manage to spread from a simple nail infection?
In many cases, the nail fungus starts when pathogens get into the area underneath your nails. When properly treated, it can be stopped in its tracks.
But the fungus can grow in certain environments. For instance, toenail fungus can get really bad if put in a dark and moist environment.
Most people wear socks and tight shoes. This provides the perfect environment for the fungus to grow. Soon it will manage to grow and spread to your skin around the nails and even between the toes. So what can you do to stop this from happening?
1. Address the Nail Fungus Right Away
The first thing you want to do is to address the nail fungus right away. You want to see your podiatrist so that you can get proper treatment. You’ll usually be given prescription ointments to apply on the affected area.
If you try the ointment and it doesn’t work, you may be given antifungal medication to consume. This helps kill fungal infections in your body. Sometimes the nail fungus stems from a systemic infection.
2. Change Out Your Socks Regularly
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As mentioned earlier, fungus thrives in a damp environment. Even if you don’t notice it, your feet will sweat throughout the day.
That’s why you want to switch out your socks two to three times a day. Make sure you wash the socks regularly and consider wearing moisture-wicking socks to prevent dampness.
| See also: How Compression Socks For Health Conditions Work |
3. Choose Better Footwear
Your shoes may be contributing to fungal growth as well. Like socks, tight-fitting shoes can lead to moisture build-up. You want to wear shoes that fit well and are breathable. It’s also a good idea to alternate shoes every other day so that any moisture dries out before you wear them.
4. Use Antifungal Powder for Your Shoes
You may be limited with your footwear choices. In this case, a simple solution is to add an antifungal powder to your shoes. There are many sprays and powder you can use in your local pharmacy. These products help kill fungi and prevent their growth.
5. Trim Your Nails Properly
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You want to trim your nails short, but also avoid trimming your nails too short. The nails should usually be shorter than your toes.
Over-trimming your nails will expose too much of the area underneath your nails. This can allow the fungal infection to make its way out.
6. Use a Nail Repair Gel
If your nails have become brittle or cracked due to the fungal infection, you need to repair your nails. If your nails are vulnerable, pathogens can make their way under your nails again. You’ll need to get the proper treatment to prevent this from happening.
A good nail repair gel can help restore your nails. They will help hydrate your nails, strengthen them so they don’t crack, and help restore their original shape. Depending on the product’s quality, it can also help you restore the natural color of your nails.
7. Practice Proper Hygiene
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A little goes a long way when it comes to preventing the fungal infection from spreading. Washing your hands and feet properly is the most basic thing that you can do. Related.
You should also wash your hands properly every time you touch the affected area. This should be followed by sanitizing nail clippers before you use them.
These are all simple things that you can do to prevent nail fungus from spreading and getting worse. You want to be very cautious, and the problem can get very annoying if it spreads to other areas of your body.
About The Author:
Saheer Gurjot: writes about anything and everything, usually with useful information with specificity that could help generally anyone.