Written by Dr.Jagruti Parghi

We all have heard about the toenail fungal infection many times but we really don’t know.

So what exactly is this “toenail fungal infection” and how is it really caused?

There are many bacteria and fungi surrounding us in minute form but in huge quantities.These fungi are solely responsible for causing toenail to get infected.Have you ever imagined that how such tiny fungi sneak beneath your nail beds and can cause your toenails to become so dark, brittle and sometimes smelly.

Toenail Fungus
                                       Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus also known as “onychomycosis” can infect anyone’s feet but there are certain group of people who are at a higher risk of getting infected by it. Infact, age, gender, genetics, overall health — and many simple everyday habits —can play a role in the development of a toenail fungal infection.So, let me jot down the most common causes of toenail fungal infection, and also ways to prevent them and keep your feet healthy.·

– HEREDITY:- Toenail fungal infection can be running in the family or there can be a family history of it and there are certain families who are more prone to getting it than others. In such cases, toenail fungus is sometimes seen at an early age group as well.Toenail fungal infection is most common in men who are above 60 years of age, according to the American Academy of Family Physician.

Visit a doctor immediately if you suspect toenail fungus and timely inspect your feet on a regular basis. ·

– OTHER MEDICAL CONDITIONS:-There are certain chronic health ailments which causes an increased risk for toenail fungal infection. Poor circulation, diabetes mellitus(DM), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), or any other serious illness may compromise your immune system or interfere with blood flowing to your toes.Take extra precautionary measures in order to keep your feet clean and dry, if you have chronic health conditions.

Other Medical Conditions
                                        Other Medical Conditions

– BOOTS:- Fungi has a tendency to grow faster in warm and sweaty environment, and if your job profile is putting you in jeopardy of toenail fungal infection by demanding you to wear sturdy and heavy boots with poor ventilation then it is advisable to not wear them. These shoes create a warm and sweaty environment which is perfect for the development of toenail fungal infection. Any occupation that causes or allows the feet to become sweaty or wet puts the worker at risk for a toenail fungal infection. Organisms have a tendency to cause both toenail fungus and athlete’s foot as they grow and thrive in a dark, moist place.

Boots
                                             Boots

To help minimize the risk of toenail fungus, alternate several pairs of work boots or shoes and allow each pair to dry after wearing. Also be sure to change your socks frequently — even during the workday — so that feet stay dry.    

– NAIL POLISH:-For females, applying nail polish periodically is a must nowadays. Nail polish may make your toes look attractive, but little that you know that it may also cause toenail fungal infection. Give your toenail a break from applying nail polish from time to time as heavy nail polish tends to block light which directly creates an environment for fungal growth.

Nail Polish
                                        Nail Polish

Also, whenever you want to get a pedicure done for yourself, take note: Toenail fungus can be transferred through nail files and clippers so make sure the salon properly sanitizes all tools after each customer. And you may want to schedule your appointment in the morning because pedicure instruments and foot baths are typically cleanest at the beginning of the day.

 

– TIGHT SHOES:-Wearing closed-toe shoes such as heels,office formal footwear, etc; especially those shoe which are narrow in the toe box, can weaken your nails and cause trauma to them making them highly susceptible to toenail fungal infection.

 

When you have to wear a closed-toe shoe,choose footwear that offers plenty of room for your toes to move without being pinched. Or opt for shoes that allow your feet to breathe.

RUNNERS:- Toenail fungal infections are often amajor concern for runners. Long distance runners tens to sweat a bit more andto add on, the sweaty socks and tight running shoes create a perfect moistsurrounding for the growth of toenail fungus.

Runners

Try using special socks that wick away the moisture to keep your feet dry.Also, it is always advisable to alternate running shoes and allow each pair todry off completely before wearing them further.  ·

HOISERY:-Wearing pantyhose can lead to sweaty feet and the potential for a toenail fungal infection. Nylon hosiery doesn’t absorb sweat, so when wearing hosiery inside a shoe, there’s an increased chance of fungal growth.

Hosiery
Hosiery

If you must wear hosiery, put some antiperspirant or baby powder on your feet before slipping into your stockings.This will help reduce sweating and the chance of fungus growing.