Fight Back Against Fungal Infections this Summer

At NY Foot Health, we know summer is a time to relax, kick your shoes off and enjoy some fun in the sun. Not so fast on the kicking your shoes off part, however. Fungi and bacteria that cause foot infections such as athlete’s foot, warts, and toenail fungus are lurking on surfaces, just waiting for a bare foot to walk by and pick them up. While most patients don’t see these conditions as serious, they can lead to an infection if not treated. For those with diabetes or poor circulation, foot infections increase the risk of developing foot ulcers and wounds that can prove difficult to heal and are potentially dangerous. Fungal infections are certainly annoying and uncomfortable, as well as being highly contagious. Protect yourself with the tips below:

  • Keep feet covered in public—at the pool, beach, public restrooms, gyms, and nail salons, wear flip-flops, or other easy to slip on and off footwear. This is the best way to significantly decrease your risk of contracting a fungal infection this season.

  • Clean up your act—make sure every member of the family washes their feet daily with soap and water.

  • Know the signs—get in the habit of inspecting your feet regularly so you’ll be quick to spot changes or unusual symptoms. Flaky skin, rashes, itchiness, spots or raised bumps and changes in skin or nail color can all signal a fungal or other infection. If you see anything suspicious contact your podiatrist for an appointment promptly. Don’t currently have a podiatrist? Use our online directory to locate a foot doctor near you.

  • Neither a borrower nor lender be—when it comes to items that touch the feet, that is. Don’t share shoes, socks, towels, cuticle trimmers, nail clippers, or emery boards. These can all transmit fungal infections.

  • Divide and conquer—if a family member contracts a foot infection, be sure they have their own towel. and take extra care to clean the shower or tub after they bathe. Don’t allow children to share a bed until the infection is gone.

To learn more about keeping your feet healthy in every season contact us and consider subscribing to our free e-newsletter.

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