Fungal nail infections affect up to 23% of people. Looking at the high percentage of affected people you are probably asking yourself, “Am I at risk of getting a fungal nail infection?”
What is nail fungus?
Fungal nails are caused by microscopic organisms that are commonly found within our environment. Fungus is commonly contracted by coming into contact with a contaminated surface or skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.
There are a few factors that increase our chances of getting a fungal infection such as age, health and environmental factors.
What puts me at risk of getting a fungal nail infection?
Am I at risk of getting a fungal nail infection? There are a few risk factors.
Age
Fungal infections are more commonly found in older people than in children. This is likely due to a reduction in peripheral circulation, having a weaker immune system and being more likely to cause trauma to the nails.
Health Status
If you are immunocompromised you are at increased risk of developing a fungal nail infection. Typical health conditions that could increase your risk of a fungal infection are:
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and hyperhidrosis
- Peripheral Vascular Disease
- Trauma to the nail
Environmental factors
Living in an area with a warmer climate and humidity can lead to sweaty feet, which creates a perfect environment for fungus. Sharing bathing or swimming facilities with people that could potentially have a fungal infection could also increase your risk of contracting fungus.
What can I do?
If you think you may have a fungal nail infection, or have had one in the past and are looking for ways to prevent it, seeing a podiatrist is a great place to start!
Learn more about your risk factors and available treatments by calling us on 07 3351 5888 or book online.