Toenail fungus can be a difficult problem to solve. It often starts as a white or yellow spot on the nail and can spread to the entire nail. Dr. Archit Aggarwal, one of the best dermatologists in India and the founder of KDC Clinic – a world-class skin clinic in Faridabad, cautions that if left untreated, toenail fungus can cause your nail to become thick, yellow, and brittle. It can also lead to pain and inflammation.
People often tend to ignore issues that occur in their feet, thinking that they will heal on their own eventually. You can largely blame the ignorance on some myths people believe about toenail fungal infection.
Toenail fungus myths can appear nearly as persistent as the ailment itself, but they do not provide the complete picture of this issue to those with the condition. By dispelling these beliefs, you can acquire more precise knowledge about how to take care of your feet and nails and get the solutions you actually require.
Following are some of the most common myths surrounding toenail fungus.
Myth: Toenail fungus is a minor problem
Fact: While toenail fungus may not be a severe health threat, it can be very uncomfortable. It can also be challenging to get rid of it. If untreated, toenail fungus can spread to other nails and even to your skin. In addition, the fungus might make you more vulnerable to pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria. The fungus can also cause your nail to grow abnormally, eventually leading to an ingrown nail.
Dr. Archit Aggarwal, a renowned dermatologist in Faridabad, adds that if your immune system is weakened for any reason, you put yourself at risk for more severe infections.
Myth: Nail polish will prevent toenail fungus
Fact: The sad truth is that nail polish does not stop the fungus; in fact, it may potentially increase your vulnerability to it. Applying nail paint can lock in the moisture on your nail surface and create a warm, dark, and damp environment that facilitates faster growth of fungus.
Toenail fungus is more common in toenails than in fingernails because your toes are usually confined to your shoes, where they are warm and damp. That creates a fertile environment for fungus.
Keep the amount of nail paint you use on your toes to a minimum, try to wear comfortable airy footwear whenever possible, and make sure always to keep your feet dry.
Myth: You need to soak your feet in bleach to kill toenail fungus.
Fact: Bleach is not effective in treating toenail fungus. In fact, it can actually make the infection worse as it can burn your skin.Toenail fungus cannot be treated or prevented with bleach. Bleach should never be applied to your skin even in very diluted form, unless recommended by an expert dermatologist.
If you think you have toenail fungus, visit an accomplished dermatologist like Dr. Archit Aggarwal for the appropriate treatment.
Myth: Only people with poor hygiene get toenail fungus
Fact: Even though it is true that maintaining proper hygiene is crucial, even if your feet are spotless, you could still be at risk of contracting a fungal infection. In addition to the fact that it is highly contagious, there may also be additional risk factors present, such as injury to the nail bed or a preexisting condition, such as diabetes.
You run a particularly high chance of contracting it from someone else if you:
- Are in a crowded, humid public space, like a shared locker room
- Receive a pedicure in a spa that does not employ clean tools or use a foot bath that has not been thoroughly cleaned
- Share personal belongings like a towel or a pair of flip-flops with someone who has the infection
Myth: Toenail fungus does not need a visit to the doctor
Fact: Toenail fungus may be a common infection, but it is an infection nevertheless and can become severe if not treated properly. You might learn through the internet or from friends and relatives that you can avoid going to the doctor by treating the problem at home with OTC (over-the-counter) medicines or home remedies.
While you may be able to manage some minor cases of toenail fungus on your own, more challenging situations demand medical attention. Only a highly-skilled dermatologist like Dr. Archit Aggarwal will be able to diagnose the severity of your fungal infection and provide you with safe and effective treatment options.
With over 9 years of experience, Dr. Archit Aggarwal is among the preferred dermatologists for people seeking nail disease treatment in Faridabad.
Conclusion
Since toenail fungus is ugly and many people feel self-conscious about their toes, it can be challenging to interact socially. You may feel especially vulnerable to disapproving stares in places or occasions where you have to remove your footwear and expose your feet if you have a toenail fungal infection.
Fungal nail infections are unpleasant, but separating fact from fiction might help you get the treatment you require. Remember, nail polish collects moisture, creating a favorable setting for fungi. And it is not always about hygiene; fungal infection can affect anyone. We get bacteria and fungi on our nails and skin from our surroundings. A lot of things can lead to an infection.
Only an experienced and highly-knowledgeable dermatologist like Dr. Archit Aggarwal can correctly identify your condition and provide a treatment most suitable to your infection.
Do not delay getting any abnormality on your nails checked by a health professional to rule out severe infections. Seek medical intervention at the earliest.
Do not let your nails go from fab to drab!