Onychomycosis, commonly known as toenail fungus, is a fungal infection that affects the nails, causing discoloration, thickening, and often a crumbly texture. This condition begins as a small white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail, which can then spread deeper into the nail bed. While not usually harmful, the symptoms can affect the appearance of the toenail and may cause discomfort. A common question among those affected is whether this type of fungal infection can spread. The answer is yes, toenail fungus can spread, both to other parts of the same individual’s body and to other people.
How Fungal Infections Spread on the Body
A toenail fungal infection can spread from one affected nail to other nails on the same foot or even to the fingernails. Fungi thrive by feeding on keratin, a protein found in nails, skin, and hair. As the fungus grows, fungal spores can detach from the infected nail. These spores can then come into contact with adjacent nails, leading to new infections.
The infection can also extend from the toenails to the surrounding skin, leading to conditions like athlete’s foot (tinea pedis). If left untreated, athlete’s foot can then re-infect the nails, creating a cycle of infection. In some instances, the fungus might spread to other body parts like the groin area, causing jock itch, or even enter the bloodstream.
How Fungal Infections Spread to Others
Toenail fungus is contagious and can spread from person to person. The fungal spores can linger on surfaces and objects, facilitating transmission. Common scenarios for spread include direct contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated surfaces.
Sharing personal items is a frequent way for the infection to pass between individuals. This includes items such as nail clippers, files, towels, socks, and shoes, as fungal organisms can survive on these materials. Public, damp environments also pose a risk for transmission. Places like swimming pool perimeters, public showers, locker rooms, and gyms are areas where fungi thrive, and walking barefoot in these locations can lead to exposure. Within a household, the fungus can spread through shared bathrooms, carpets, or even bedding.
Preventing the Spread of Toenail Fungus
Preventing the spread of toenail fungus involves consistent hygiene practices and careful attention to footwear and shared spaces. Keeping feet clean and thoroughly dry, especially between the toes, is important, as fungi flourish in warm, moist environments. After washing, drying feet completely with a clean towel helps eliminate moisture.
Wearing appropriate footwear is also important. Opt for shoes made from breathable materials like leather, canvas, or mesh to allow air circulation and reduce moisture buildup. It is helpful to alternate shoes, allowing each pair to dry out completely for at least 24 hours between wears. In public damp areas such as showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools, wearing shower shoes or flip-flops creates a barrier against potential fungal exposure.
Do not share personal foot care items like nail clippers, files, or towels with others. If tools must be shared, they should be thoroughly disinfected after each use. Regularly changing socks, especially if they become damp, and choosing moisture-wicking materials like synthetic fibers can also help maintain dry feet. Applying antifungal powders or sprays inside shoes can further reduce fungal growth within footwear.