Toe nail fungus is a living organism that develops in dark and damp conditions, specifically shoes and socks. Nail fungus does occur in the fingernails, but it is much more common in the toes due to the environment. The fungus will live and develop under the nail, or along side the nail, but it depends on the severity and progression of t he condition. Early stages of toe nail fungus are typically found along side the nail, but if left untreated, it will progress inwards and under the nail.

The Stages of Toe Nail Fungus

The initial stage of toe nail fungal infection is typically painless, which is why it is so dangerous. Many people simply ignore the symptoms until it starts to become painful, which at that point becomes much more difficult to treat. The first stage of fungal infection results in a white or yellowish area on the nail.

Left untreated, the toe nail fungal infection will start to spread and develop into a yellowing of the toe nail. The nail becomes dull, and can actually change shape as the nail thickens and crumbles around the edges because of the fungus. The yellow and malformed toenail is usually when people take notice and begin treatment, mostly to due to the pain experienced. The toenail can actually separate from the nail bed as the fungus grows.

Serious infection can occur when the nail separates from the skin, leaving the nail bed exposed. Pus emitted from the toe and foul odors are the sure signs that you may be on the verge of infection. While toe nail fungus infections are not life-threatening, they can be extremely painful and embarrassing. Because toe nail fungal infections are difficult to treat, preventing the infection is extremely important. Get treatment as soon as you notice the fungal infection in its early stages.

Dermatophytes Cause Toe Nail Fungal Infections

Spores for nail fungus infection can be found anywhere, but they mostly thrive in wet and dark areas, such as public showers and gyms. Dermatophyte, which is based on the Greek term for “skin plants,” is the medical term for the type of fungus that causes nail infections. Dermatophytes can cause infections on the skin, hair, and nails, where they obtain nutrients on the outside of the body.

There are other factors may make an individual more susceptible to toenail fungus, which include:

• Poor hygiene
• Peripheral artery disease
• A malfunctioning immune system
• Trauma to the foot that includes the toenail
• Abnormal skin PH
• Previous fungal infections of the nails

Nail Fungus Causes – from Work and Play

Warm and wet areas are prime breading grounds for fungus. If you constantly have a body part, a foot or hand, in an environment like this, then you are more likely to get a fungal infection. People who constantly have wet hands, such as dishwashers, house cleaners, or anyone who has to wear gloves all day, are likely to be exposed to the conditions that cause nail fungus infection. Toenail fungus will happen in tight, enclosed areas – specifically the shoes and boots we wear that trap sweat and heat.

In addition, even our naked feet can be exposed to toe nail fungus in public gyms, shower stalls, swimming pools, saunas, and nail salons.

If you are active, activities like running and basketball can cause a broken nail plate. The cracks are prone to moisture found in shoes and shocks, where it seeps in to provide a great environment for nail fungus. It can be very difficult to get rid of these kinds of toe nail fungus infections without a topical treatment.

Lower Immune System leads to More Risk of Infection

Those with a weaker immune system, whether through bad health, smoking or disease, are more prone to the causes of nail fungus infections. Older individuals are also more prone to these infections because age plays a factor. Nearly half of the people over 70 find toe nail fungus infections common. Poor circulation to the feet caused by diabetes and other diseases also means a greater risk.

Maintain Good Hygiene to Reduce the Risk

Even if you are naturally more prone to nail fungus infections, there is still a lot you can do to reduce the risk. You must always maintain proper foot hygiene to avoid toe nail fungus infections. This means thoroughly drying your feet after a shower or bath, and wearing sandals in public showers. Nail fungus spreads easily through wet towels and tile floors whether if an infected person’s feet have touched them. This is why when one person in a family catches a toe nail fungus infection, others in the household are soon to follow.

Nail polish has the ability to trap a small infection and turn it into a bigger one if not careful. If your hands touch infected feet, the possibility is there for the nail fungus to travel to your hands.