Despite how common nail fungus is, dealing with it isn’t easy. Most cases of nail fungus are mild, but some people may need help if the infection worsens. Either way, asking your podiatrist for help is always a great first step. Staying informed and up-to-date can also aid in preventing your fungus from becoming a more serious issue.

Here are some ways to beat nail fungus and important information on the condition.

Signs and Symptoms

Luckily, nail fungus is easy to spot. You may have nail fungus if you notice any of the following signs:

Thickened nails.
Brittle nails.
Nails separating at the nail bed.
Smelly feet.
White or yellow-brown discoloration under your nail.
Pain or discomfort.

Prevention

As with most health concerns, prevention is the best form of defense. It’s better to be safe than sorry! Podiatrists recommend these six tips for lowering your chances of catching nail fungus:

Wash your feet with soap and water, thoroughly drying them.
Wash and change your socks daily (especially for sweaty feet).
Choose a sanitary, clean nail salon.
Wear shoes in locker rooms, public pool areas, etc.
Allow your shoes to air out in between wears.
Avoid sharing the same towels or nail clippers as someone else.

If you notice any signs of nail fungus, the best thing to do is call your podiatrist so you can get the problem under control as quickly and easily as possible. Ignoring the issue can make it worse.

Your Treatment Options

While nail fungus cases are usually mild, they’re not always easy to treat. Nail fungus cases also tend to come back. But treatment is possible! Below are some of the most common recommendations from podiatrists:

Oral antifungal medications.
Medicated creams.
Medicated nail polish.
Total or partial removal of the nail (in more serious cases).

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, Dr. Anant Joshi and his staff treat various conditions and are committed to providing results. We are conveniently located in Woodland Park and welcome our neighbors in Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. To schedule an appointment, contact his office at 973-256-0002.