“Fungal infections thrive in warm, dark, moist areas. Unfortunately, the area between your toes meets these conditions. If you think you have a toe fungal infection, we can help you with this uncomfortable and embarrassing condition”.
What causes toe fungus?
Fungus can grow anywhere, but it grows best in places that are warm, dark, and damp. Fungus does especially well in shower stalls and on tile floors. Toes, and especially the areas between toes, are also excellent places for fungus to grow.
The foot has many sweat glands making it difficult to keep them dry—especially if they’re trapped inside your shoes all day. If possible, try to avoid wearing the same pair of shoes on consecutive days. Taking turns between 2 or more pairs of shoes will give each pair some time to air out and dry more thoroughly before you put them on again. Foot powder can also be used inside shoes (especially athletic shoes) to soak up excess moisture and make the environment less inviting for fungus. Anti-fungal sprays can be sprayed directly on the feet, as well as in shoes, to keep fungus at bay.
Is toe fungus the same thing as “Athlete’s Foot”?
Fungus affecting only the skin on the foot is commonly called Athlete’s Foot, known medically as tinea pedis. Most of us are familiar with this condition. It causes smelly, itchy feet, and if it gets bad enough, it can also cause burning skin. Athlete’s Foot may sometimes become a persistent problem, but it is generally not nearly as difficult to treat as fungus in the nail bed.
If Athlete’s Foot is not treated properly it can lead to fungus in the nail bed
Toenail fungus affects the skin underneath the nail bed. This is a stubborn condition known medically as onychomycosis. Anti-fungal creams and sprays cannot reach the areas underneath the nails. Tea tree oil is a commonly used remedy, but it is often not strong enough to address the problem. In some cases it may be best to make an appointment to come to the office so that we can determine if you need prescription strength anti-fungal medication.
How can I get rid of toe fungus?
Toe fungus is tenacious and notoriously difficult to get rid of. Of course we will need to examine your feet In order to make a definitive diagnosis. Then we should be able recommend the best course of treatment. The sooner you make the appointment, the sooner we can get started working together to eradicate the problem!
What can I do to prevent fungus infection?
Keeping feet, toes, areas between toes, and nails, meticulously clean and dry is the best way to avoid fungus in any location—on the skin, as well as under the nails. Socks should be changed at least once daily, and athletic socks should be washed in chlorine bleach.
Fungus is highly contagious!
If you go to the gym, or if you visit swimming pools with public shower facilities, be sure to bring your shower shoes. Always wear them in the locker room – especially when in the showers.
Contact Advanced Cardiology & Primary Care LLC Today
Dealing with foot and nail issues such as toe fungus? Call our team at Advanced Cardiology & Primary Care to set up an appointment.