How to Prevent Fungal Infections of the Nails
1. Keep your nails clean and trimmed
To prevent fungal infections of the nails, make sure to regularly wash your hands and nails. Use warm water and mild soap to remove dirt, sweat, and other irritants that can lead to fungal growth.
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Additionally, keep your nails trimmed straight across in order to avoid hangnails or sharp edges that can trap bacteria and fungus. When trimming your nails be sure to use a clean, sharp nail clipper or scissors as old tools may contain germs that could introduce an infection.
After cutting the nails you should also smooth any rough edges with an emery board or file so that they are less likely to catch on fabrics or cause snags.
2. Keep your feet dry and aired out
It is important to wear shoes and socks that will allow your feet to breath, such as sandals or open-toed shoes. By doing this, you are preventing the build up of moisture which allows fungus to grow.
Additionally, it is best practice to avoid going barefoot in public places such as swimming pools or locker rooms. This is because these areas can be a breeding ground for fungal infections from other people’s exposure.
Furthermore, remember to change your socks regularly if they become damp or sweaty; this also helps prevent the growth of fungus on your feet. Finally, make sure that you dry your feet thoroughly after washing them or swimming by paying special attention between each toe; water left behind can provide an ideal environment for fungi to thrive in and cause infection.
3. Wear protective footwear in high-risk environments
It is essential to wear flip-flops or other protective footwear when in communal showers, pool areas or any other environment with a high risk of fungal infection. This will help protect your feet and nails from coming into contact with fungus on the floor.
It is also recommended that you use rubber gloves when working with water such as washing dishes or cleaning. By doing so, you can keep your hands and nails dry which helps reduce the chance of developing a fungal nail infection.
4. Avoid sharing personal grooming items
It is important to avoid sharing personal grooming items such as nail clippers, emery boards, and other tools with others in order to prevent the spread of fungal infections. If you do need to borrow someone’s item for any reason, make sure that it is properly disinfected both before and after use.
This helps ensure that any unwanted bacteria or fungi are not transferred between individuals. Additionally, if possible it is best to use your own items when grooming yourself instead of relying on borrowed ones.
5. Keep your environment clean and dry
When it comes to preventing fungal infections of the nails, keeping your environment clean and dry is essential. Start by using a disinfectant cleaner on areas that come into contact with your hands and feet such as floors, showers, bathtubs and any other objects that you frequently use.
This will help reduce the risk of fungus growth in these areas. Additionally, if you live or work in a damp or humid space be sure to invest in a dehumidifier which will help keep the air dry.
By following these simple steps you can greatly reduce your chances of developing a fungal infection in your nails!
6. Use anti-fungal products as needed
If you already have a fungal infection of the nails, it is important to seek treatment right away. Anti-fungal creams, powders, or sprays can be used to effectively treat the infection and help prevent further spread.
It is essential that you follow the instructions on any products carefully in order to ensure proper use and full effectiveness against the fungus. Make sure that you apply all topical treatments thoroughly throughout your nail beds and surrounding skin areas for optimal results.
Additionally, make sure to replace socks and shoes often if they become damp or sweaty as this can lead to reinfection of fungi.
7. Seek medical attention if needed
It is important to speak with a healthcare professional if your fungal infection persists despite using over-the-counter products. This is especially true for those who have compromised immune systems, as they may require stronger medications in order to successfully treat the infection.
A doctor can prescribe an antifungal medication or suggest alternative treatments that are better suited for you and help prevent future outbreaks of nail fungus. They might also recommend lifestyle modifications such as wearing breathable shoes and socks to reduce moisture around the feet, avoiding shared showers or locker rooms, and keeping nails trimmed short and filed down to reduce risk of reinfection.
