Fungal toenail and skin care involves preventing transmission of infection, eliminating the infection, and promoting growth of healthy toenail.

Onychomycotic (fungal toenail) and Tinea Pedis (Fungal skin conditions) 

• One of the most common toenail and skin conditions impacting the feet

• Onychomycosis is most commonly seen on the first toenails 

• More common in individuals with weak immune system, poor hygiene, and diabetes 

• typically caused by dermatophytes such as Tricophyton rubrum. This dermatophyte thrives on keratin on toenails and skin 

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Risk Factors

1. Weakened immune system - diabetics, old age, poor circulation

2. Poor hygiene 

3. hyperhydrotic and sweaty feet 

4. Athletes 

5. Nail trauma and injury 

6. Walking barefoot in public spaces ​​

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Prevention of Fungus on Skin and Toenails

1. Keep feet clean and dry as possible. Make sure to dry in between the toes as well

2. Change your socks daily and immediately after activity

3. Spraying inside of the shoe with over-the-counter antifungal spray or alcohol spray

4. Avoid walking barefoot in public spaces

5. Trim toenails with clean and sterile instruments 

6. Proper management of systemic issues, such as controlling blood sugar levels 

7. Wear proper fitting footwear. Tight footwear may cause excessive foot sweating or increase risk of nail trauma which can lead to fungus on skin and toenails 

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Treatment Fungal skin and Nails 

1. Providing sterile nail care and making sure to keep the fungal toenail as thin as possible. Also, physically removing the nail fungus by trimming the fungal toenail shorter, and sharp debridment of calluses/fissures to prevent fungal skin conditions

2. Education on prevention and recurrence

3. Topical Treatments involve application of medications such as Jublia (efinaconazole 10% solution), cyclopirox (nail laquer 8%), Lamisil (terbinafine 1% cream or spray)

4. Surgical Option involves total removal of the infected toenail 

5. Continued foot care to prevent recurrence

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Seek immediate advise from Chiropodists at Podera Health, if you suffer from this issue!