Dermatophytes are the organisms that cause toenail fungus, feeding on keratin, a protein produced by nails.
Such fungus is usually transferred to the foot from public showers, pools, hot tubs, restrooms and locker rooms. The situation can be exacerbated by too-tight shoes, wet socks or excess moisture clinging to the foot.
Though the fungus itself is not painful, it can make nails thick and brittle, which in itself can be uncomfortable or painful. The nails can also turn a yellow or brownish color.
There are a few ways to prevent fungus and keep nails clean and healthy. Visit a qualified foot clinic like the Dalhousie Station Foot Clinic to treat nails that have already been infected.
1. Clip your nails regularly.
Never cut your nails in a rounded or oval shape—always trim them straight across. Be aware of jagged edges that can penetrate your skin or cause infections. Always use scissors or clippers that have been sanitized in hot water or rubbing alcohol to kill bacteria.
2. Choose the best shoes for your feet.
The right fit can help keep fungus and infections at bay. Shoes that are too small will cause your nails to penetrate your skin and encourage infection. Keep your feet as dry as possible to discourage fungal infections. Try to wear breathable shoes made of materials like canvas or leather. This will prevent your feet from getting wet with sweat. Shoes that are sweaty from a workout should be air dried or placed in the dryer to discourage bacteria from forming in excess moisture.
3. Use shower sandals.
Bacteria can hide in public showers (especially gym showers) and public pools and hot tubs—basically, anywhere that bacteria can get trapped in moisture. Always wear shower sandals at the gym or when staying at hostels, as these places cannot clean between every use and may not clean facilities every day.
4. Keep your shower clean.
You may not be able to control how often a public shower is cleaned, but you can control how your own shower is cleaned.
Disinfect your tub or shower with a cleanser that has bleach in it. Clean your shoes with antibacterial spray and always try to wear clean, dry socks with shoes whenever possible. Always wash your socks in hot water to kill bacteria. Dry socks in your clothes dryer—the less time socks are wet, the less likely they will attract bacteria.
Your feet need the same TLC that your shower, shoes and socks do. Keep your feet clean with an antibacterial soap and keep them as dry as possible—especially when wearing shoes or rain boots that cant trap moisture and bacteria.
