Fungal nail infections, or onychomycosis, are more common than you might think. They start subtly, often as a small discoloration or slight thickening of the nail, but they can progress into a stubborn, unsightly condition. Left untreated, fungal nail infections can lead to brittle, crumbling nails that are difficult to manage and even painful.
But why do fungal nail infections happen? More importantly, how can you prevent them? Let’s get into it.
What Causes Fungal Nail Infections?
Fungal infections thrive in warm, damp environments and can be surprisingly easy to contract. Here’s a closer look at the most common causes:
Walking Barefoot in Public Places
Public places like swimming pools, gyms, locker rooms, and communal showers are hotbeds for fungal infections. The warm, humid atmosphere encourages fungal growth, making it easy for the infection to spread. To reduce direct exposure to fungi, always wear flip-flops or shower shoes in public spaces.
Excessive Sweating or Damp Feet
Fungi love moisture, so if your feet sweat excessively or stay damp for prolonged periods, you’re at a higher risk of developing an infection. People who wear non-breathable shoes or socks for long hours are particularly susceptible. Wearing moisture-wicking socks, breathable footwear, and using antifungal powders or sprays can help keep your feet dry.
Athlete’s Foot Spreading to Nails
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal skin infection that affects the toes and can easily spread to the nails if left untreated. The same fungi responsible for athlete’s foot can invade the nail bed, leading to a stubborn infection. If you notice dry, itchy, peeling skin between your toes, treat it promptly to prevent the infection from reaching your nails.
Nail Trauma and Injuries
Damaged nails are more vulnerable to infections. Cracks, splits, or even minor injuries to the nail bed create an entry point for fungi. Trimming your nails carefully, cutting them straight across, and avoiding injuries to the nail bed can reduce the risk of infection.
Sharing Nail Clippers or Footwear
Fungi can spread through direct contact, so using someone else’s nail clippers, shoes, socks, or even towels can put you at risk. Always use your personal nail grooming tools and avoid sharing footwear.
Weakened Immune System and Poor Circulation
Your immune system plays a vital role in preventing infections. If your immune defenses are compromised (due to diabetes, autoimmune conditions, or other health issues), your body may struggle to fight off fungal infections. Additionally, poor circulation—common in people with diabetes or vascular diseases—can make it harder for the body to heal from infections. People with diabetes or circulation issues should pay extra attention to foot hygiene and inspect their nails regularly for any changes.
Nail Fungal Infection Symptoms
Fungal nail infections develop gradually, and early detection is key to successful treatment. The most common symptoms include:
- Discoloration, such as yellow, brown, or white spots on the nail
- Thickening and deformation, making nails harder to trim and irregular in shape
- Brittleness and crumbling, causing the nail to weaken and break easily
- Separation from the nail bed, where the nail lifts or detaches
- Foul odor, sometimes described as a musty or unpleasant smell
- Pain or tenderness, particularly in more severe infections
Can Fungal Nail Infections Lead to More Serious Health Issues?
Many people see fungal nail infections as a minor cosmetic issue, but they can sometimes lead to more serious complications if left untreated.
Can Fungal Nail Infections Cause Sepsis?
Although rare, untreated fungal nail infections can provide an entry point for bacteria, leading to cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection that, if ignored, can escalate into sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition. Those with diabetes or weakened immune systems are at greater risk.
Can Fungal Nail Infections Cause Numbness?
Fungal infections themselves do not directly cause numbness, but they can contribute to conditions that do. Thickened nails may press on nearby nerves, causing discomfort or tingling. Additionally, individuals with diabetes or poor circulation may experience nerve damage, which can be worsened by an ongoing infection.
Can Fungal Nail Infections Cause Cancer?
Fungal nail infections do not cause cancer. However, certain serious conditions, such as subungual melanoma (a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer that develops under the nail), can be mistaken for a fungal infection. If you notice dark streaks or persistent changes that do not improve with treatment, seek medical evaluation.
How to Prevent Fungal Nail Infections
Preventing fungal nail infections is much easier than treating them. Adopting the following habits can help keep your nails healthy:
- Keep your feet clean and dry. Wash them daily, dry thoroughly (especially between the toes), and allow them to breathe.
- Choose breathable footwear and moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry.
- Use antifungal sprays or powders to reduce the risk of fungal growth.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as shoes, socks, nail clippers, and towels.
- Trim nails properly by cutting them straight across and avoiding overly short trims.
- Wear protective footwear in communal areas like locker rooms, swimming pools, and shared showers.
- Treat athlete’s foot as soon as symptoms appear to prevent it from spreading to your nails.
- Rotate between different pairs of shoes to ensure they dry completely between wears.
Fungal nail infections are more than just an aesthetic concern—they can be persistent, uncomfortable, and sometimes lead to complications if ignored. Understanding the causes and risk factors is key to preventing infections before they start.
If you already have a fungal nail infection, seeking treatment early will make it easier to manage. Whether through medical treatment or home remedies, consistent care is essential for restoring healthy nails.
Taking care of your feet is an investment in your overall health, so don’t ignore the signs of a fungal infection.
Studies:
Onychomycosis: An Updated Review
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7509699/
Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis): A Never-Ending Story?
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4047123/