Did you know that nail fungus is one of the most common nail conditions? It is estimated that it affects approximately 12% of the population worldwide and over 50% of people over 70. While some people might be more predisposed and have an increased susceptibility to developing a fungal nail infection, absolutely anyone and everyone is at risk.
There are however a variety of risk factors that can contribute to you developing a nail fungus, some of which include the following.
RISK FACTORS:
- Age: Older individuals certainly have an increased likelihood of developing a nail fungus infection. This is partly due to their reduced blood flow and impaired circulation as well as their higher number of years of exposure to fungi. Additionally, as the nail ages it becomes increasingly dry and brittle, this allows for more cracks to form in the nail making it easier for fungi to enter.
- Having a history of Athlete’s foot.
- Circulation problems in the legs as a result of diabetes or peripheral artery disease
- Diabetic Neuropathy.
- A weakened immune system, for example caused by a disease like HIV, or by taking medication that suppresses the immune system.
- Having a minor skin or nail injury or a skin condition, such as psoriasis
- Walking barefoot in damp communal areas e.g. swimming pools, gyms or shower rooms.
- Sweating heavily: This is attributed to the fact that fungi thrives in damp areas.
- A genetic predisposition
Now that we’ve identified the common risk factors it’s time to take a closer look at the signs and symptoms. So, you think you have a nail fungus, but you’re not exactly sure, here a few symptoms to look for.
SYMPTOMS:
- Whitish-yellowish or brownish discoloration of the nails.
- The nails may become brittle (crumbly), thicker and change shape.
- The affected part of the nail may detach from the nail bed.
- It can often be painful and/or uncomfortable.
- Sometimes the infection causes white patches to form on the surface of the nail instead. They might remain as dots, but they may also spread out.
If a nail fungus is left untreated it can spread to other healthy nails or even spread to other people’s nails with which you have skin-to-skin contact. Fungus can further spread by sharing an infected nail clipper or towel. Since fungus thrives in humid and warm conditions, public showers, gyms and swimming pool are the hotbed of transmission. Fungi thrive in damp surroundings, it’s therefore very important to make sure you keep your feet dry. You could try the following preventative measures for example:
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES:
- Wearing shoes that aren’t too tight and let your feet breathe. This will additionally help protect your toenails from constant pressure when
- walking or jogging for longer periods of time.
- Drying your feet properly after having a bath, swim or shower. This can be done by using both a towel and hairdryer.
- Not wearing the same pair of shoes 2 or more days in a row.
- Do not share towels, shoes or socks.
- Wearing flip-flops as a precautionary measure when using swimming pools, communal showers and changing rooms.
- Taking your shoes off as often as possible – your feet need to breathe!