A Fungus Among Us

Summer brings wonderful warm weather and sunshine, and also the likelihood of developing or worsening toenail fungus. We all know that hot weather leads to humid, sweaty conditions which are ideal for fungal growth on feet. The weather coupled with increased sweating getting trapped in our shoes and spending time barefoot in public areas (think swimming pools, locker rooms, and gyms), are all the perfect breeding grounds for fungus.

Although anyone can get toenail fungus, individuals who are at greater risk are older adults (60+) and those who have:

• Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis)
• Diabetes
• Hyperhidrosis (a disorder that makes you sweat a lot)
• Nail injury
• Peripheral Vascular Disease (poor circulation)
• Psoriasis
• A weakened immune system (autoimmune disorder or HIV)
• A minor skin or nail injury

There are steps you can take to reduce your risk of toenail fungus like:

• Avoiding high-risk areas like public pools, spas, showers and locker rooms. If you’re in these areas wear flip flops so you’re not walking barefoot and wash your hands and feet thoroughly, drying them afterwards.
• If you’re active or playing summer sports, wear cotton socks to absorb the sweat from your feet and change them frequently. You want to do all you can to keep your feet dry.
• It’s also important to wear comfortable shoes – not tight – that allow for adequate air circulation.
• Keep your toenails cut short, and if you have an infection, do not use nail polish.
• And avoid sharing towels, shoes and nail care tools to prevent fungal transmission.

Fungal toenails may seem like a minor issue, but they can become a significant problem causing discomfort, foot pain, and can even cause long-term damage if not properly treated. There are home remedies, topical creams and oral medications that treat toenail fungus, but if you have been treating it at home for weeks with over-the-counter medications and have no improvement, it’s time to seek professional care. That’s especially true if you’re experiencing severe pain or if your toenails are showing signs of infection (pus or increased swelling), or if your nails come loose from the nail bed or turn black or brown.

So, don’t wait until the fungus becomes a major issue, seek medical care that will help restore your toenails and feet to good health.