Causes
Toenail fungus - while seemingly more of a nuisance than anything else - can easily affect daily living. Early stages of toenail fungus may be unattractive but painless, however as the infection progresses it can produce symptoms that range from uncomfortable to very painful. It certainly helps to understand the causes of toenail fungus to know how best to treat the current condition, as well as how to avoid fungal infections in the future.
Shoes & Socks
It may seem silly that something so innocuous can be the cause of the spread of infection, but the truth is that socks and shoes are some of the more common causes of toenail fungus.; more specifically, wearing socks and shoes for lengthy periods of time without changing them for clean pairs. Fungi thrives in humid environments; a warm, moist pair of shoes or socks - especially tight fitting shoes and socks - is the perfect breeding ground for toenail fungus.
Environments
Socks and shoes are not the only warm, wet environments to which we’re exposed. Public swimming pools, steam rooms and showers can set the stage for the spread of fungal infections.
Nail Salons
A pedicure is certainly a treat for most of us, however, treating ourselves to some pampering can often put us at risk for potential fungal infections. The whirlpool tubs in which we soak our feet can easily spread bacteria, as can instruments that are not properly sterilized.
Cuts
Even the smallest of cuts can allow microscopic fungi to enter the body; so injuries to the foot - however minor - can wind up providing a breeding ground for toenail fungus.
Medical Conditions
Those with compromised immune systems, poor circulation, and other conditions such as diabetes are more prone to experience fungal infections such as toenail fungus.
Age
Believe it or not, age can play a part in fungal infections. Those age 70 and older are more prone to fungal infections
As with all maladies, prevention is always preferable to treatment. It is much easier to prevent toenail fungus than to treat it; being aware of the causes allows us to avoid potential situations in which the spread of fungal infection can occur.
Shoes & Socks
It may seem silly that something so innocuous can be the cause of the spread of infection, but the truth is that socks and shoes are some of the more common causes of toenail fungus.; more specifically, wearing socks and shoes for lengthy periods of time without changing them for clean pairs. Fungi thrives in humid environments; a warm, moist pair of shoes or socks - especially tight fitting shoes and socks - is the perfect breeding ground for toenail fungus.
Environments
Socks and shoes are not the only warm, wet environments to which we’re exposed. Public swimming pools, steam rooms and showers can set the stage for the spread of fungal infections.
Nail Salons
A pedicure is certainly a treat for most of us, however, treating ourselves to some pampering can often put us at risk for potential fungal infections. The whirlpool tubs in which we soak our feet can easily spread bacteria, as can instruments that are not properly sterilized.
Cuts
Even the smallest of cuts can allow microscopic fungi to enter the body; so injuries to the foot - however minor - can wind up providing a breeding ground for toenail fungus.
Medical Conditions
Those with compromised immune systems, poor circulation, and other conditions such as diabetes are more prone to experience fungal infections such as toenail fungus.
Age
Believe it or not, age can play a part in fungal infections. Those age 70 and older are more prone to fungal infections
As with all maladies, prevention is always preferable to treatment. It is much easier to prevent toenail fungus than to treat it; being aware of the causes allows us to avoid potential situations in which the spread of fungal infection can occur.
