Avoid Toenail Fungus this Winter

As winter heads for Lake, Cooke and Roselle-Dupage counties, we at Weil Foot & Ankle Institute expect to see more cases of fungal toenail and other fungal infections. Although many patients associate these conditions with the summer season when people spend more time barefoot, winter also has ways of creating environments where fungi thrive.

During cold weather, feet spend most of their time in socks and closed shoes in overheated cars, offices and stores. This creates a warm, dark, moist environment—the perfect breeding ground for fungi. Fungal infections that develop under the surface of the toenail can be harder to treat than other infections such as athlete’s foot. They may be accompanied by a yeast or bacterial infection. Left untreated, the fungal infection can spread to other parts of your body.

Seek Treatment Promptly

If you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Change in nail color to yellow or brownish
• Thickening of the nail
• Deformed appearance
• Crumbling at the edges of the toenail

you should make an appointment at our offices in Bannockburn, Orland Park, Roselle or any of our other 16 conveniently located offices by calling 847-390-7666. Our podiatrists will examine your toenails and skin and determine the best treatment. We offer several treatment options for fungal toenails, including:

• Oral antifungal drugs
• Medicated nail polish
• Medicated nail cream
• Laser therapy

Stop Fungal Infections Before They Start

There are steps you can take to prevent fungal infections this winter:

• Keep feet clean. Many times, toenail fungus will be caused by the spread of athlete’s foot. Wash feet daily and dry them completely.
• Change your socks as soon as you notice that they feel damp.
• Apply antifungal or foot powder to your feet each morning before putting on your socks.
• Don’t share nail clippers, towels or other items that touch another person’s feet.

Contact us as soon as possible if you believe you have a fungal toenail infection.