How to Help Prevent Toenail Fungus

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By Sharon Keith
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Help Prevent Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis is a common problem in adults. Nearly half of all people in the U.S. have at least one toenail infected by the time they are 70 years old. Onychomycosis causes unsightly thickening, yellowing and often deformation of the toenail. A variety of fungi (microscopic organisms related to mold, yeast and mildew) may cause the infection. Because the fungus thrives in warm moist places, you may pick up the infection simply by stepping in a warm puddle or onto a warm moist floor in places like public pools, spas, locker rooms and showers. As it is difficult to treat and eliminate toenail fungus, prevention is preferred.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Soap and water
Foot powder
Toenail clippers
Nail file
Clean, well fitted socks or hosiery
At least two pairs of everyday shoes
Flip-flops or sandals

Step 1

Soap

Wash feet daily. Use a nail brush to scrub tops and underneath toenails. Dry feet well, including inbetween toes. Apply an antifungle foot powder to help absorb moisture and kill any fungus which may be present.
Step 2

Change socks or hosiery at least once a day. More often if needed.
Step 3

White Socks by DaniHunt987

Avoid tight ill-fitting shoes and socks. Opt for comfortable shoes and socks or hosiery. Shoes made from natural materials allow for air circulation. Wearing pure wool, white cotton or silk socks or hosiery is preferred, as these materials allow feet to breath. Another option is socks made from some of the newer breathable materials.
Step 4

Mens shoes by Charice2007

Have at minimum two pairs of shoes for everyday wear. Never wear the same pair each day, but rather trade one pair for the other, allowing each to air and dry thoroughly for no less than one day in-between wearing.
Step 5

Use flip-flops or sandals in public showers and locker rooms. Wash and thoroughly dry feet after visiting public places such as swimming pools.
Step 6

Never share towels, washcloths, shoes, socks, or pedicure items with others. Disinfect pedicure items often.
Step 7

Keep toenails trimmed with clippers, trimming straight across and then smoothing edges and corners with a file.
Step 8

Do not wear layers of polish on toenails as this seals out air and seals in fungus, allowing it to grow. Avoid polishing toenails altogether if you can.

Comments

FrazzledNanny said

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on 1/18/2009 Thanks for the tips. I will pass this on to everyone in my family. 5*

BRADM said

on 9/15/2008 HUM, PRETTY USEFULL TIPS.

lbryansmith said

on 8/27/2008 You can even soak your toenails for 15 - 20 minutes in half bucket of warm water and apple cider vinegar mixed in equal proportion. Dry the toe nails with a hair dryer or a clean towel afterward.