Avoid Getting Nail Fungus in the Fall

Colder weather signals the end of sandal season for many of us, and should trigger some extra precautions to avoid getting nail fungus in the fall. Although there may be less risk of exposure from going barefoot, there is a greater likelihood of feet being enclosed in sweaty airless shoes for hours at a time – an environment that fungi love. As you’re getting back into shoes, take some extra time to look after your feet.

Autumn foot care to avoid onychomycosis includes keeping your feet cool and dry, because fungi thrive in dark, moist, warm environments. Change your socks frequently, air your shoes, and use foot powder if your feet tend to be sweaty. Try to get your feet out of tight fitting airless shoes as soon as possible: wear slippers or light shoes with plenty of air circulation. Other tips to avoid getting nail fungus in the fall include wearing only cotton socks and dusting shoes with antifungal powder when they’re not being worn.

If you’re moving from the beach to the pool for the cooler months, avoid getting nail fungus in the fall by wearing flip-flops or deck shoes on your feet: damp public places like pool decks and public showers are known to spread the fungi that cause infections from one person to another. Be cautious even in places that you expect to be clean, such as hotel rooms, and health spas. While trips to the sauna and nail salon may be part of your autumn foot care to avoid onychomycosis, these activities may also carry some risk of infection.

Wash your feet thoroughly at least daily and carefully dry between your toes. Avoid getting nail fungus in the fall by paying careful attention to any injuries or breaks in the skin, even minor ones. And don’t cut your cuticles: they are part of your natural protection against infection and should be left alone. When seeking professional care for nails, take your own tools along so that you’re not exposed to instruments that have been used on others. If you’re prone to fungal nail infections, discuss autumn foot care to avoid onychomycosis with your nail specialist or podiatrist.

Even if you have practiced good autumn foot care to avoid onychomycosis, you may experience an infection, Deformed or discoloured nails should be assessed promptly by a medical professional to confirm the diagnosis and start treatment as soon as possible.