Toenail infections are surprisingly common and can have some nasty side effects. These can include progression, loss of the nail, and cellulitis. Without even realizing it, you may be putting yourself at a higher risk of fungal toenail infections.
Nail Polish
Nail polish is used all the time to make people feel better about their feet, but it could be doing more harm than good. If the polish is thick and dark, it blocks out light. This means the area under the nail becomes dark, which is a prime condition for fungal growth.
Running Shoes
Your feet sweat, and if they’re sweating in tight sneakers, it creates the perfect place for fungi to grow. This is why it’s important to air out your shoes in between use and to keep your feet as dry as possible.
Hosiery
Along the same lines of sneakers, hosiery can present the perfect opportunity for fungi to grow. People assume because hosiery is breezy its fine, but if you place a hosiery-covered foot into a shoe – it can really put you at a higher risk of fungal toenail infections.
Locker Rooms
Locker rooms tend to be dark and moist, which can allow bacteria and fungi to thrive. So, if you are in one of these, you have a higher risk of fungal toenail infections. If you’re in there barefoot, it gets even worse.
Family History
In some cases, your family history may be to blame for this. Vulnerability to fungal infections may be hereditary. If you fall into this category, monitor your toes regularly to prevent any infections from spreading.
In Conclusion
All of the above are common instances. By doing these things, you are putting yourself at a high risk of fungal toenail infections. With this knowledge, you are better equipped to prevent any future infections.
