Summer is a time to wear flip flops and let your feet enjoy the warm weather. No one wants their toes to be cooped up in shoes while strolling on the beach! Learn how to be fungus free! Summer is a time to wear flip flops and let your feet enjoy the warm weather.  No one wants their toes to be cooped up in shoes while strolling on the beach! Are you unfamiliar with nail fungus?  Nail fungus, AKA Onychomycosis, can be identified by a thickened nail that can appear yellow, cloudy, or darkened.  The nail can also become very brittle and separate from the nail bed.  Yuk! Here are a few tips to help prevent nail fungus and help your feet enjoy the summer sun:

• Air out your feet – it is very important to let your feet and nails breathe.  Keeping them in dark and damp areas can aid in the development of fungi to grow and spread.

• Spray Lysol or a disinfectant spray in your shoes when not in use – Disinfecting your shoes can help kill any fungus that can hide in the crevasses of the inside of your shoe.

• Avoid pedicures (unless it is completely sterile) – Nail salons can spread nail fungus if the tools are not properly sterilized.  Tools should be sterilized in an autoclave to ensure the spread of fungus will not occur.

• Avoid shared showers – Although some shared showers may look clean, fungi can spread very easily in dark, damp areas.  If you must shower in a public or shared shower, shower shoes are highly recommended.

If you already have signs of nail fungus and need treatment, don’t hesitate to call Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists for an appointment!  Enjoy your summer!