Nail fungus attacks your nails and causes them to thicken uncomfortably and then crumble. You may also experience an unusual smell. While it can occur with anyone, the elderly and diabetics are at the highest risk. It will start on one toenail, and if left untreated, it can spread to the others. Thankfully, there are steps that you are able to take at home to prevent your toes from getting affected.

How To Protect Your Toes

• Give up polish-to avoid the bacteria that causes fungus, and you will need to give up artificial nails and any polish.
• Be careful at salons-if you decide to get pedicures, you will need to ensure that you are choosing a safe salon and that sterilizes its equipment thoroughly.
• Keep your feet clean-wash your feet and be sure to dry them completely. Bacteria and fungus avoid clean areas but love the moisture that collects between toes. Always ensure that you are getting each space on your foot.
• Trim your nails-trim your nails and do it in a straight line. You will then need to smooth down the edges with a file. Never cut into the skin. That is particularly important if you have diabetes because it can lead to complicated issues.
• Wear shoes that can breathe-wearing tight shoes creates a damp area that will invite bacteria to grow. Be sure to keep your shoes dry and clean by spraying them with disinfectant.

The medical team at Your Next Step Podiatry has offices in several locations. We serve the areas of Berwyn, Chester County, and the Western Suburbs. We also serve the areas of Montgomery County, Greater Philadelphia and Lower Merion, and Downingtown. We can help ensure your feet look and feel their best. Board-certified Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich, and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen, board qualified, offer diagnoses and appropriate services for treating various conditions. Call our Downingtown office at (610) 873-0322 or our Ardmore office at (610) 642-8837 to see us right away.