Nail fungus is not too hard to catch. You’re probably familiar with the symptoms: a thickened, yellow nail that eventually lifts away from the nail bed. But it turns out that fungal infections do not always look like you’d expect. Do not overlook trouble that might be lurking, literally underfoot.
Check for any of the following signs:
- Red, puffy inflammation around the nail.
- White, chalky appearance on the nail surface.
- Black discoloration under the nail.
- Pink, flaky, or scaly skin on the soles of the feet or between the toes.
Take these precautions to keep toenail infections at bay:
- Avoid trauma that can allow germ to get into or under the nail, resulting in fungus growth. Keep nails reasonably short.
- Make sure your shoes have plenty of toe room.
- When your toenails are dry and brittle, moisturize as you would for dry skin.
- If nail abnormalities persists, see a dermatologist. Some people simply more likely to develop a fungal infection.