The German Association for General and Family Medicine has outlined key symptoms to identify nail fungus, including brittle and cracked nails, and discolouration to white or yellow. Nails may also thicken, and in severe cases, the fungus can lead to complete nail destruction.
The association stresses the importance of consulting a dermatologist if these symptoms appear, as antifungal treatments are often necessary to address the infection effectively.
Prevention Tips
To prevent nail fungus, the association recommends thoroughly drying feet after washing, especially between the toes, to avoid fungal growth.
A hairdryer can help ensure dryness in these areas. Additionally, socks should be washed at a minimum temperature of 65°C to eliminate fungal spores.
Moreover, one should avoid sharing nail clippers or files, choose well-ventilated sports shoes made from materials like leather and make sure to let them air out and dry fully.
Furthermore, one should avoid wearing tight shoes, particularly those with pointed toes, as they can limit toe space and create friction, which can increase the risk of fungal infection.
