Who doesn’t enjoy a spirited game of hide and seek? Perhaps those who’ve contracted toenail fungus! If you’ve happened upon one of fungi’s favorite hiding places, you could very well end up with a fungal infection that you certainly weren’t seeking!
Warm, damp environments are where fungi love to hang out. That means they could be lingering in locker rooms and showers, lounging at pool sides, and hiding on sauna floors. If you frequent such places barefoot, well, toenail fungus will find you before you can even count to ten! We suggest you add shower shoes to your gym bag packing list.
Another favorite place fungus likes to hide is inside your sweaty shoes. Make sure you wear socks that wick away moisture and choose footwear made of breathable materials. It’s also a good idea to rotate the shoes you wear so that each has time to dry out. Otherwise that fungus will be shouting, “Ready or not, here I come!”
In addition, if you’re planning a pedicure, keep in mind that fungi enjoy spas as much as people do! Ask ahead if foot baths are sanitized between clients and make sure all tools are sterilized before each use. If you have even the slightest cut, reschedule your appointment. Fungi needs just a tiny opening to invite itself in and take up camp beneath your nail.
One last word of advice -- a secret hiding place of fungus is that towel someone dropped on the floor. Don’t step on it. Steer clear and walk around it, in shower shoes, of course!
If toenail fungus has found you despite your best efforts, call us at (303) 805-5156 for an appointment. We can determine which treatment option – topical cream, oral medications or laser therapy --would best benefit you. If you’re seeking help with fungal nails, you just found it!