If you think you are suffering from nail fungus then it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Nail fungus, once it appears, will only get worse and can spread to every nail. It is also contagious. Approximately 3-5% of the population suffer from nail fungus at any one time, but the reality is that most people just ignore the symptoms and don’t seek treatment until the fungus has significantly worsened. Unfortunately, this is one condition that won’t go away by itself, so it’s important to start nail fungus treatment as soon as the problem arises.

Causes of fungal nail infection

The organisms that cause nail fungus are almost everywhere, but most often live where air is moist and people walk barefoot. The most common places to pick up a nail fungus infection are bathrooms, locker rooms and shower stalls. Because it is contagious you can also pick up a fungal infection from sharing a nail file or clippers used by someone who has a nail fungus infection.

Damage to the nail can make it easier for the fungus to take over – damage or injury to your nail or tight shoes can cause a nail infection to move in. Also those with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to fungus, so having a strong healthy immune system is essential for the prevention and treatment of fungal infections.

Nail fungus prevention

Good hygiene and regular inspection of the toes and feet can stop the problem from occurring in the first place. The following are a few tips to follow:

  • Keep feet washed and clean at all times
  • Always dry your feet properly after washing
  • Wear shoes that are the correct size – shoes that don’t fit right can cause many foot problems.
  • When showering in public areas use shower shoes or flip flops.
  • Keep toenails clipped properly and clip straight across without extending beyond the toe tip.
  • Use a quality foot powder to keep your feet clean and fresh – many of these have anti fungal properties (tea tree talcum powder etc.)
  • Don’t wear socks or hosiery that are too tight.
  • Keep home pedicure tools such as files and nail clippers disinfected.

By following these tips you are greatly reducing your chance of picking up a fungal nail infection. If however you do notice the early symptoms of fungus e.g. discoloration, flaking, or the nail becoming misshapen it’s time to look for a nail fungus treatment.

Nail fungus treatment

Unfortunately the first thing that many people try to get rid of nail fungus is a home remedy. People often waste months trying products such as Listerine, bleach, vinegar, Vicks Vaporub and many others trying to get rid of the fungus. These rarely work, except maybe in the mildest of cases. More often you end up wasting time, and often this is time where the fungal infection is actually worsening.

If you visit your doctor the 2 most popular prescription medications are Lamisil and Sporanox. Both of these are extremely strong, and although they do work they can have some unpleasant and even dangerous side effects. The FDA have issued a public health advisory on these two treatments warning the public that they can lead to liver failure and even death.

A more popular option is a natural treatment such as Zetaclear – it may not work as quickly as a prescription medication, but it is safe and natural, meaning there is no danger to your health. For more information on this product check out our Zetaclear review.

Filed under: Zetaclear

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