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Toenail infections are usually highly unsightly, often uncomfortable, and in some cases can lead to further infection and problems with your feet. Many people don't realize they have a nail fungal problem; therefore, they don't ever seek treatment. Fungal toenail infections are a common foot health problem that can persist for years without ever causing you pain. A toenail's color will change, but is often brushed off as nothing more than a blemish. However, if left untreated, it can present further serious problems for your feet. Additionally, ingrown toenails may also lead to painful infections. Ingrown toenails are a common problem, as well, frequently caused by trimming toenails too short. If your toenail changes color or provides you with pain, a trip to your Fall River podiatrist may be in order. Protect Your Feet Against Fungal Toenails Fungal toenail infections are common foot health problems. These can last for years without ever causing pain. Characterized by a change in the toenail's color, fungal toenails can present a serious problem if left untreated. Ultimately, the bacteria within the fungal toenail can lead to pain when walking or running. Some of the symptoms may include discoloration, brittleness, loosening, thickening, or crumbling of the nail. Additionally, an injury of the nail bed may make the toenail more susceptible to infection. When it comes to fungal toenails, prevention may begin with: * Keeping your feet clean and dry.
* Disinfecting home pedicure tools.
* Avoid applying polish to nails if infection is suspected.
* Clipping nails straight across so that the nail does not extend beyond the tip of the toe.
* Wearing shoes in public facilities whenever possible. Watch Out for Ingrown Toenails Ingrown toenails, also known as onychocryptosis, may be caused by shoe pressure, injury, fungal infection, heredity, or poor foot structure. Occurring when the corners or sides of the toenail dig into the skin, ingrown toenails are painful, and when left untreated, may lead to an infection. If an infection is not suspected, soaking your foot in warm water can usually safely treat it at home. Avoid repeatedly cutting the nail, as this will only make the condition worse.
Painful ingrown toenails can also be avoided by: * Trimming toenails straight across with no rounded corners.
* Ensuring socks and shoes are not too tight.
* Keeping feet clean at all times. When or if your attempts at home fail to reduce the pain or swelling, the toenail is most likely infected and should be treated by your podiatrist. Avoid Black Toenails Black or darkened toenails are essentially bruised nails and can result from a variety of injuries or problems. Darkened nails may occur as a result of the toe hitting the end of the top of the shoe toe area. Sometimes, the bruise can even lead to a fungal toenail infection. Treatment of black toenails may include trimming the nail back and applying a topical antifungal medication. If the skin under the nail is ulcerated, a topical antibiotic ointment should be applied. Diabetic patients should contact their podiatrist for evaluation if they experience any change in the color of their toenails. Persistent ingrown or fungal toenails will require a trip to the podiatrist in order to alleviate the pain, infection and other symptoms. When meeting with your Middletown podiatrist, they can help diagnose, treat and prevent your continuous painful infections. It is important to contact your podiatrist at the first onset of any painful infection to prevent any further spreading.
Foot & Ankle Institute of New England is a leading Middletown podiatrist. Providing quality foot care for infants, children and adults from three convenient locations, this Fall River, Warwick and Middletown podiatrist offers an array of foot and ankle treatments, including relief for heel pain in Fall River, MA.
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