Nail Fungus

Fungi are microscopic organisms that have the characteristics of both animals and plants. They reproduce very quickly by means of spores and can be found everywhere. Fungi thrive mostly in warm, moist and dark places. Many diseases are caused by fungi such as athlete’s foot and hand or foot nail fungus infection. People who are particularly at risk are those whose hands or feet are always wet like dishwashers or swimmers.

Fungal infection of the toes is generally contracted by people who frequently wear shoes that are not aired or by walking barefoot on gym locker and shower rooms which are often heavily contaminated with microscopic fungi.

While most people who are afflicted with foot nail fungus infection does not feel any symptoms at all such as pain, tingling or numbness, the nails of the affected digits of the lower extremities become discolored and gradually thicken and become brittle. As the disease progress, the affected nails will have a very unsightly appearance and wearing sandals or toeless footwear in public can be an embarrassing experience.

Foot nail fungus infection is more common among people 40 years old and above, as well as among those with a lowered immune defense system. When contracted, foot nail fungus infection is very hard to cure and standard medical treatment is usually very expensive may take several months to more than a year.

The best way to deal with foot nail fungus infection is to prevent it. Many public areas that are conducive to fungi growth are those that are always damp and moist so always wear slippers and sandals when in pool sides, gym and locker rooms. After using these public facilities, do not forget to wash your feet and dry them thoroughly. Always wear cotton socks that absorb sweat, and put on a fresh pair each time these have absorbed enough moisture from your feet. It’s a good idea to choose shoes that are made of natural, instead of synthetic materials because these allow your feet to “breath.” Give your shoes regular “airing” to prevent the growth and build-up within of molds and fungi.

The sharing of personal clothing like socks, towels, shoes and the like should be avoided as precaution to prevent the spread of the foot nail fungus by any contaminated member of the family. Similarly, regular customers of public beauty salons must, as much as possible, bring their own tools like nippers and nail clippers to avoid contracting foot nail fungus from such tools which may be contaminated.

All these preventive measures would not be effective if these are not reinforced by the observance of personal hygiene such as keeping your feet very clean and dry on a daily basis.

Tags: nails, health, fungus, skin, nail fungus, symptoms, treatment