5 Myths about Toenail Fungus

Myths are creative tales about a person, event, or thing that tell interesting stories—but aren’t really true. Mythology has existed as long as society, from tales of ancient gods and goddesses to stories about problems like diseases and injuries. While many myths are fun and harmless, sometimes they spread misinformation. Modern “myths,” particularly about health issues like toenail fungus, are good examples.

Myths about toenail fungus can seem almost as resilient as the condition itself, but they don’t share the whole truth about this infection with the people who have it. Busting those myths can help you get more accurate information about your nails and foot care, so you can get what you really need to address the issue. Here are five common myths about nail fungus and the truth behind them:

Toenail fungus is harmless – Toenail fungus is unsightly and many people suffer embarrassment over their toes that can make social situations more difficult. Beyond that, however, the fungus can increase your risks for bacterial infections and even ingrown nails.
You can’t get it if you wear nail polish – Nail polish can help trap the fungus rather than protect against it. Polish traps moisture, fostering that fungus-friendly environment.
Only dirty people get it – Anyone can get a fungal infection. Our skin and nails are covered in bacteria and fungus that we contract from our environment. An infection can occur from a number of circumstances.
Fungal nails go away eventually – Fungal infections get worse, not better, if you ignore them. Only active treatment will eliminate them.
You don’t have many treatment options available – You have plenty of options, from oral and tropical anti-fungal medications to tailored topical compounds and laser nail treatments. It all depends on your unique needs.

No one likes having fungal nail infections, but knowing the truth from the myths can help you seek out the care you need. If you’ve noticed your nails growing discolored and unsightly, don’t wait for the problem to get worse! The sooner you deal with the infection, the better.

Contact our experts at Dallas Podiatry Works for more information about nail restoration or an appointment to deal with your toenails today. Just call one of our offices: 972.853.7100 for Dallas, or (972) 943-3323 for Plano.

Your Top-Rated Podiatrist in Dallas & Beyond

The doctor has great “bedside manners” when talking to patients. Great staff and comfortable atmosphere.

Derrick W.

The staff at Dallas Podiatry Works could not have been more courteous, helpful, and professional in doing their job. They made me feel comfortable when I was there, which is certainly appreciated. They answered all the questions that I had and just made each visit the most pleasurable that it could be. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing this type of foot care.

Joseph B.

I would highly recommend Dr. Brook to anyone with foot problems–especially problems that stump other podiatrists. He really is very caring and very knowledgeable.

Jeannette H.

Dr. Joel Brook and the staff were nice and helpful. Though I was a new patient, I got right in as soon as they were open in my preferred location. They diagnosed the problem and provided medicines along with a perfect gel bandage so I could keep exercising while my toes healed. My toes already hurt less and look a little better each day. If I have future issues, I will be a repeat customer. Here’s hoping I don’t, but at least I know my feet are in good hands.

Meryl E.

I visited this office for an ingrown toe nail a few years ago. After seeing another doctor, who made it worse, he referred me to Dallas Podiatry Works. The doctor there was able to fix my problem. I’m not great with reviews, all I can tell you is that this doctor and staff will have you up and running or doing whatever it is you do in no time. You will be in great hands. You’d be a fool not to use this doctor. Now its time to visit him again for the other toe.

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Been having bad ankle pains for 6 months was referred here and it was a great visit ladies in the front desk medical assistants and the Doctor were all very friendly and make you feel very comfortable.