Toe problems can range from mild annoyances to painful daily challenges. Two common toe conditions are fungal infections and hammertoe. Sometimes, adjustments to lifestyle can help prevent or alleviate pain or discomfort associated with toe conditions. Other remedies for fungal nail infections and hammertoe may more in-depth therapies, as recommended by medical professionals.
Detecting Fungal Nail Infections
Unpleasant in terms of how it looks and feels, fungal nail infections occur when fungus grows under, or into, the nail. Nail infections can occur on the hands or on the feet, and this can be painful. The fungi can come from mold, yeast, and more. These types of nail infections may make the nails look yellow, white, thick, or crumbly. The nail may also split with fungal nail infections.
How Fungal Nail Infections Occur
Showers, gym floors, and other warm or moist places can be fertile ground for fungal infections. Keeping feet healthy, clean, and dry can be key to prevention. Wearing sandals and shoes that breath well can be very helpful. Clean socks and proper feet hygiene may also prevent nail infections. Sanitary nail clippers and washing feet regularly can be important habits for overall prevention of nail infections.
Fungal infections may need treatment, depending on the severity of the infection. Those with compromised immune systems or other illnesses may have a challenging time recovering from nail infections. Fungal infections can be treated with anti-fungal medications found at pharmacies. For certain cases, prescription-strength fungal infection medicine may be necessary if physicians recommend it. The medications used to treat fungal infections can take weeks or longer. Since fungal growth on nails can come back relatively easily, it's important to be vigilant about treatment and keeping the area healthy.
The Pain and Discomfort of Hammertoe
If you have a crooked toe that is bent upward, you might have hammertoe. This condition may be caused by ill-fitting shoes or complex medical issues. Arthritis and walking problems may coincide with hammertoe.
Age, gender, and toe length are factors that may increase the likelihood of hammertoe. Foot injuries, such as a stubbed or jammed toe, can also contribute to this condition. If a toe breaks, it may become a hammertoe. Additionally, nerve damage can also be a cause of hammertoe. This condition can also occur with other toe issues, such as corns. Therefore, it helps to discuss various possible causes of hammertoe with a physician.
Possible Hammertoe Treatments
In mild cases, hammertoe may be alleviated by wearing roomier or softer shoes. For example, women may have hammertoe due to uncomfortable shoes, such as shoes that cause irritation or heels. In these cases, switching to more comfortable shoes, or wearing shoe inserts, can help.
Sometimes, hammertoe can cause severe problems with pain and may deter someone from walking correctly. Hammertoe can be described as flexible or rigid, which may affect treatment options. A flexible, moveable hammertoe may be less severe and less complicated to treat. A rigid case of hammertoe may mean that surgery is necessary. Talk to your doctor about the type of hammertoe you have, the types of shoes you wear, and how it impacts your ability to walk.
Overall, toe conditions such as fungal nail and hammertoe issues can range from mild distractions to very painful problems. Many websites focused on foot health and medicine offer specific information about ways to help relieve these issues. In addition, podiatrists can provide a comprehensive diagnosis and discuss treatment strategies. For more information on these conditions, talk to a specialist, like those at Foot First Podiatry Centers.
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