For those who deal with nail fungus, the happy day when we trade in woolen socks for strappy sandals can feel more like a nightmare. Unsightly and stubborn, onychomycosis affects around 12% of the population. While it’s more common as you age, anyone can wake up one day to find that a small dot under their finger or toe nail has grown into a much larger problem.
Are You at Risk?
The most common fungus that causes nail infections is called dermatophyte. Like a bacteria, it is a living organism looking for a cozy spot to call home. Unfortunately, that home is often underneath your nails.
Older populations are prone to infection because their nails are more brittle. They easily crack, even at a microscopic level, opening the door for the house-hunting fungus to get inside. Poor circulation and reduced blood flow allow the fungus to flourish.
Those who are athletic are also at higher risk because two favorite mediums for fungi to thrive are moisture and warmth. The increased body temperature and sweat produced by working out is a beacon call for dermatophyte. Adding to that, gym locker rooms and communal showers, both of which are often used by dedicated athletes, are a breeding ground for onychomycosis.
Even a minor skin or nail injury can leave you at risk. Infectious fungi are good at finding the smallest window of opportunity to strike.
Fighting Back Against Fungus
While your nail fungus might sound like it’s out to destroy your nails, the good news is that it’s very rarely a serious condition. It can lead to crumbling, yellowing, and thickened nails, but that is mainly a cosmetic problem.
Of course, no one wants to cover up all year just to hide an unwelcome visitor that’s taken root in our nail bed. Proper care and treatment can help kick fungus out. Products from The Tetra Corporation are an all-inclusive solution to your fungal woes, addressing the root cause with powerful anti-fungus medication.
Formula 3® is a fungus-fighting mix of five oils and tolnaftate, the most common ingredient in most anti-fungal products because of its effectiveness at waging war against onychomycosis.
What makes Formula 3® so unique, though, is Tetra Corporation’s use of jojoba oil. When the jojoba oil is quickly absorbed by the skin, the tolnaftate is delivered directly to the infected area right along with it! This process is so effective that Formula 3® has received the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Approval.
FungiFoam® Antifungal cream is a four-in-one product that treats and prevents Athlete’s Foot and Ringworm. Like Formula 3 ®, this oil-soluble tolnaftate is quickly absorbed directly treating the infected area, so it can begin healing. FungiFoam® includes a calming agent for itchy skin, moisturizers for softening and exfoliants for smoothing skin with no greasy residue.
Of course, once your nail fungus is treated, you’ll want to take precautions to prevent it from rearing its ugly head. Clean Sweep Antimicrobial Shoe Shield® is a safe, natural way to protect your footwear from fungus. It provides a clear, flexible antimicrobial micro-coating fortified with pure nanosilver to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungus, and mold. It is reactivated by perspiration, which means that it’s ready to work when you are.
Additional Foot Care
Wear shower shoes in those communal places like locker rooms, the gym and pool areas. Change socks and shoes daily or when sweaty. Wear well fitting shoes and alternate them during the week. Keep nails short and cut straight across. Sanitize nail clippers after use and do not share these personal items with others. Treat athlete’s foot promptly. Keep feet clean, dry and moisturized to prevent skin breaks or cracks.
Tetra Corporation products are only available through your physician, so if you’re tired of hiding out from your fungus, it’s time to stop by AST. For evaluation and diagnosis, make and appointment with one of our board certified providers to help you find the solution that works best for you.
