Toenail Fungus Causes

Fungus is a natural part of the skin. It is always present in certain amounts. This is why it can be difficult to know how or why you have developed a toenail fungus. While it can appear to occur for no apparent reason, there are many variables that do contribute to this infection.

Significance

• Toenail fungus is a common problem because it is extremely contagious. It is considered harmful due to the fact that it leads to discoloration and disfigurement of the toe; the two toes most commonly affected are the big and little toes.

Function

• Toenails can easily crack and rupture because of the amount of wear and tear they sustain. Because a fungus likes warm, wet areas to reside in, these cracks in the nail make a perfect breeding ground for fungus.

Public Areas

• Public areas such as public gyms and swimming pools are areas where moisture and dampness are prevalent, allowing for fungus to spread to your feet.

Shoes and Socks

• Wearing tight-fitting shoes and socks after exercise traps in moisture, allowing for the fungus to embed itself under the cracks of the nail.

Medical Conditions

• Medical conditions such as diabetes and poor circulation also contribute to toenail fungus.

Symptoms

• Some symptoms to watch for include a yellow or brown discoloration of the nail, a smelly debris under the affected nail, a nail that has become thick or nails that begin falling off.