Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a very common condition that causes your toenails to get thick, crumbly, and discolored. While it’s not usually serious, it can be unsightly and uncomfortable.
One of the most common ways to get toenail fungus is by walking barefoot in public places where the fungus thrives. So, is going barefoot to blame? Let’s take a look.
This article covers how walking barefoot can lead to toenail fungus, what you can do to prevent it, and what your treatment options are if you do get it.
The link between bare feet and toenail fungus
How fungi thrive
Fungi love warm and moist environments, but at what temperature does nail fungus die? That’s why public places like swimming pools and locker rooms can be breeding grounds for them.
Common places for fungi to grow include public showers, swimming pools, gyms, and locker rooms.
Bare feet as a vector
Walking around barefoot means your feet come into direct contact with fungal organisms, and that bypasses a crucial barrier of protection. Toenail fungus spreads through direct contact.
Prevention Strategies: Protecting Your Feet
While going barefoot at home can help treat toenail fungus, you need to take some preventative steps to keep fungus away in the first place. Some tips include:
- Keep your feet clean and dry. Wash your feet regularly with soap and water, especially after being in public places. Dry your feet thoroughly, particularly between your toes.
- Wear protective footwear in public areas. Always wear sandals or shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and around swimming pools.
- Choose breathable footwear. Wear shoes that allow your feet to breathe and avoid excessive sweating.
- Wear properly fitting shoes. Shoes that are too tight are uncomfortable and will make your feet sweat more. Sweaty feet provide the perfect hot and wet environment bacteria love.
Recognizing and treating toenail fungus
Identifying symptoms
Toenail fungus can cause your toenails to, sometimes resulting in yellow toenail fungus:
- Thicken
- Become discolored, usually yellowish or brownish
- Become brittle
- Crumble
It’s important to recognize toenail fungus early because the sooner you treat it, the less likely it is that the fungus will spread.
Treatment options
You can treat toenail fungus in a few different ways, with some exploring options like red light therapy.
- Topical antifungal products: Over-the-counter creams and ointments can help with mild infections.
- Prescription antifungal medications: For more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medication.
- Surgical removal: In extreme cases, a surgeon may remove the infected nail.
When to seek professional help
If you think you have toenail fungus, it’s a good idea to talk with a doctor. If over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping, you should definitely see a podiatrist or other healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk barefoot with toenail fungus?
It’s generally not recommended to walk barefoot if you have toenail fungus, especially in public places. Walking barefoot can increase the risk of spreading the fungus to other people or to other parts of your own body. It’s best to wear breathable shoes or sandals to protect your feet.
Is hydrogen peroxide good for toenail fungus?
While some people try hydrogen peroxide as a home remedy for toenail fungus, its effectiveness is limited. Hydrogen peroxide can help to kill some surface bacteria, but it doesn’t penetrate the nail effectively enough to reach the fungus deep within. It’s usually best to opt for proven antifungal treatments.
What not to do with toenail fungus?
Avoid picking at or cutting the infected nail, as this can worsen the infection and increase the risk of spreading it. Also, avoid wearing tight, non-breathable shoes that trap moisture and create a favorable environment for fungal growth. Don’t share nail clippers or files with others, and avoid using nail polish, which can trap moisture.
Should you dig out toenail fungus?
No, you should not attempt to dig out toenail fungus. This can be painful, increase the risk of infection, and damage the nail bed. It’s best to seek professional treatment from a doctor or podiatrist who can recommend appropriate and effective treatments.
How to know if toenail fungus is dying?
Signs that toenail fungus is dying include new, healthy nail growth at the base of the nail, a decrease in the thickness and discoloration of the infected nail, and a reduction in brittleness. However, it can take several months to see noticeable improvement, and complete eradication of the fungus can take even longer.
Key Takeaways
Keeping your feet clean and dry is important for preventing toenail fungus. Walking barefoot in public places can increase your risk of infection.
Understanding the risks of toenail fungus and taking steps to keep your feet healthy will help you avoid fungal infections.