Fungi usually breed in warm and damp places. Those who use public places like gym locker rooms where there is moisture and heat, often become the source of fungal infection affecting the toenails if you are not careful and walking barefoot in such areas.

Although it starts as a tiny discolored spot on the toenail, it can develop into a severe infection that can also spread to other areas of the body. This is why even those early symptoms should not be ignored and a specialized foot doctor must do an evaluation.

Dr. Sima Soltani Podiatry Clinic provides various diagnostic and treatment-oriented services related to various foot conditions in Irvine and other parts of Orange County, California. You can ask their podiatrist for toenail fungus laser treatment for treating the infection that is bothering you and causing you a lot of pain. It is a safe and painless way to treat the damage caused by fungal infection and also provide a cosmetic repair of the infected toenails.

Prevention of toenail fungus infection

By sticking to some healthy habits, we can avoid getting infected in the first place. This is even more necessary if you are suffering from diabetes or any other ailment that has weakened your immune function or is causing poor blood circulation in your feet.

This is because even a minor infection can spread and cause cellulitis or non-healing wounds in such scenarios, which are difficult to treat even after laser toenail fungus removal.

Some of the sources of infection that you can avoid are:

• Occupational workers who work in damp, sweaty, and wet conditions are at high risk of developing fungal infection of the toenails.
• Athletes and fitness enthusiasts who share common changing rooms are at higher risks.
• People with diabetes can catch fungal infection easily if they walk barefoot in public areas.
• Sharing socks and footwear with infected people puts you at a higher risk.
• The use of nail polish for extended periods blocks light and gives fungi a good breeding ground.
• Even nail clippers used in salons for pedicures can transfer infections, if not sanitized properly.

Now that you know the sources from where you can easily catch the infection. However, in any case, you do get infected, visit your nearest podiatric clinic to get evaluated and get a nail fungus laser treatment removal at the earliest. You can also take the following steps to protect your toenails from getting infected:

• Always use sanitized nail clippers especially if it is shared by many people.
• Cut your nails straight across and do not leave any sharp edges.
• Avoid footwear that is too tight or too loose.
• Choose a material for the footwear that gives your toes a chance to breathe.
• Keep changing your footwear on an alternate day basis to ensure that they dry out completely in sunlight.
• Do not move around in public showers and locker rooms barefoot. Use shower shoes or flip-flops for protection.
• Wear washed and clean pair of socks every time you put in your shoes.
• You can use antifungal powder if your workplace provides an adequate environment for fungus to grow and infect.
• Always keep your feet clean, dry, and moisture especially in between the toes.

Although laser treatment for toenail fungus is an effective treatment, you should focus on prevention first. Do not shy away from reaching out to a foot doctor if you do get signs of a developing infection.