Yes, there is fungus among us, and one of the easiest ways to avoid a fungal foot infection is by protecting your feet from the microbes that cause the infection. Fungi love the warm and moist environment that often characterizes the inside of your shoes. Keeping moisture at bay and killing microbes before spreading can help treat and prevent fungal infections like athlete’s foot and fungal toenail infections. Complete eradication is essential to prevent infections from recurring, so be sure to see your foot doctor.

5 ways you can help avoid getting toenail fungus, and athlete’s foot include the following:

• Properly trim your toenails—Trimming your toenails straight across or on just a slight curve and keeping them a little long will help prevent ingrown toenails that can be the precursor to an entrenched fungal toenail infection.
• Deter microbes by keeping your feet clean and dry—Wash your feet daily with mild soap and take the time to dry them before putting on your socks and shoes. It will help keep microbes from growing.
• Wear breathable shoes and socks—Choose socks and shoes made of breathable materials to allow moisture to evaporate instead of building up.
• Keep your feet protected from direct contact with microbes—Public showers, bathrooms, locker rooms, and such are teaming with microbes. Protect your feet from direct contact with shower shoes or sandals.
• Use medicinal lotions, sprays, and powders in your shoes and on your feet—Antifungal products can be applied to your feet and inside your shoes to kill the fungi directly.

If you are experiencing a fungal toenail or athlete’s foot infection, see your foot doctor for the proper care. Call Syracuse Podiatry, located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, and Dr. Donal M. Erickson, and their staff will help you diagnose and treat your foot or ankle condition. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.