Discover the facts about toenail fungus and how it can spread. Get insights from dermatologists on prevention, treatment, and when to see a doctor.

The Truth About Toenail Fungus: Can It Spread Internally?

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects the nails. While it may seem concerning, the good news is that toenail fungus typically does not spread internally to other parts of the body, such as the stomach. Dermatologist Corey Georgesen, MD, explains that the fungi responsible for toenail fungus, called dermatophytes, thrive on keratin found in the hair, skin, and nails. They are not well-suited to survive in the internal organs or tissues of the body.

Is Toenail Fungus Contagious?

Yes, toenail fungus is contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected person or by sharing personal items like towels, clothing, or surfaces, especially in damp environments like public showers or swimming pools. The fungus can also be transmitted from animals, most commonly dogs. It’s important to take precautions to avoid spreading the infection to others.

Can Toenail Fungus Be Life-Threatening?

While toenail fungus caused by dermatophytes is not typically life-threatening, other types of fungi, such as nondermatophyte molds or yeast, can potentially spread throughout the body and become more serious, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. In these rare cases, the infection can be fatal if left untreated. If you are immunocompromised and suspect a toenail fungus, it’s crucial to seek medical attention quickly.

Preventing Toenail Fungus: Proven Strategies

To prevent toenail fungus, it’s important to avoid sharing personal items with infected individuals, wear sandals in public places like locker rooms and swimming pools, and change wet socks promptly after exercise or other activities. Those prone to skin fungal infections may also consider using antifungal cream in the toe web spaces, a common hiding spot for fungi.

Treating Toenail Fungus: Effective Options

Treating toenail fungus can be a challenging and lengthy process, as it typically takes several months for a new, healthy nail to grow out. Common treatments include topical creams, nail lacquers, sprays, and oral medications. It’s best to consult a dermatologist, who can accurately diagnose and provide the most appropriate treatment plan.

When to See a Dermatologist for Toenail Fungus

If you notice any changes in your toenails, such as thickening, yellowing, or other abnormalities, it’s recommended to see a dermatologist as soon as possible. Dermatologists are specially trained to diagnose and treat toenail fungus, and they can also perform laboratory testing if necessary to determine the best course of action.

Dispelling Myths About Toenail Fungus

Contrary to popular belief, toenail fungus does not typically spread throughout the body. The fungus is mainly confined to the nail or the immediate surrounding area. While it can be contagious and spread to other toenails or the skin (causing athlete’s foot), it’s unlikely to cause internal infections or pose a serious health threat, unless the individual is immunocompromised.

Another misconception is that toenail fungus is a sign of poor hygiene. In reality, anyone can develop a toenail fungal infection, regardless of their cleanliness. Factors such as age, genetics, and exposure to fungal-prone environments can all contribute to the development of the condition.

It’s important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to toenail fungus. By understanding the true nature of this common condition, individuals can take appropriate steps to prevent and manage it effectively.

Seeking Professional Help for Toenail Fungus

If you are concerned about a toenail fungal infection, it’s recommended to consult a board-certified dermatologist. These medical professionals are specially trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including toenail fungus. They can provide personalized guidance on the best treatment options and help you maintain healthy nails.

Remember, while toenail fungus can be a nuisance, it is generally not a serious health concern, unless you are immunocompromised. By understanding the facts and seeking professional help when needed, you can take control of your foot health and prevent the spread of the infection to other parts of your body.

You asked, we answered: Can toenail fungus spread to other parts of your body?

Question:

If you have toenail fungus, how likely is it to be in your stomach and other parts of your body?

Answer by dermatologist Corey Georgesen, MD:

Toenail fungus is a nail infection usually caused by unique fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi may be found on the skin of humans, animals or in soil. Dermophytes can also cause ringworm and fungal scalp infections. 

Toenail fungus doesn’t usually spread to inside your body, like the stomach. The fungi require keratin, found in your hair, skin and nails. They survive best on the skin.

Is toenail fungus contagious?

Yes, toenail fungus is contagious. 

Typically toenail fungus spreads through: 

• Direct contact with the infected person 
• Common household objects, such as towels or clothing 
• Surfaces, especially damp floors
• Animals, most commonly dogs

Can toenail fungus kill you?

Other types of toenail fungus – caused by nondermatophyte molds or yeast – can spread throughout the body. They can cause death in those without an immune system. These infections are rare. If you’re immunocompromised, seek care quickly if you suspect a toenail fungus.

How to prevent toenail fungus

Prevent toenail fungus by avoiding fungi-friendly places:

1. Do not share towels, combs, clothing or anything else with an infected person.
2. Wear sandals when using public shower facilities and around swimming pools. 
3. Change wet socks after exercise, as fungi thrive in moist, dark environments.  

If you’re prone to skin fungal infections, consider using antifungal cream in your toe web spaces. This area is a natural hiding spot for fungi on the skin.

What toenail fungus cures work?

Toenail fungus can be difficult to treat. The typical treatment for toenail fungus is up to three months, which is why it’s important to start treatment early. Normally it takes six to nine months for a toenail to grow out. 

Treatments for toenail fungus include:

• Topical creams
• Nail lacquer
• Spray
• Oral medications

Which doctor treats toenail fungus?

Dermatologists are trained to diagnose and treat toenail fungus accurately. They can also do laboratory testing if needed. If you have thickening, yellowing or other changes in the toenails, see a certified dermatologist quickly.

You can call 800.922.0000 to make an appointment with a Nebraska Medicine dermatologist.

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5 Things You Didn’t Know About Toenail Fungal Infections

A toenail fungal infection (onychomycosis) definitely isn’t a glamorous topic, but it can be an interesting one. Think you know all there is to know? There may be facts about toenail fungus that you’re unaware of.

5 Facts About Toenail Fungal Infections

Lesser-known facts about toenail fungal infections include:

1. It tends to stay local. Some people think having toenail fungus means they’re harboring unsavory organisms throughout their body, but that’s not the case. While it’s true that some fungal infections can wreak havoc in the body, the fungus that affects toenails tends to stay on the nail or in the area immediately surrounding it, says Richard Goad, DPM, a podiatrist with Baylor Scott & White Health in Temple and Killeen, Texas. “Don’t get too worried about it,” he says. “It’s a problem in the nail plate and nail bed.”

2. But it can spread to other parts of the body. If a fungus is affecting one of your toenails, the toenails surrounding it are more likely to develop it as well, Dr. Goad says. In some people, the fungus can also spread to the surrounding skin, causing athlete’s foot. Sometimes the fungus can be passed to the genitals (jock itch) when underwear is pulled on over infected toenails. “If your toenails are infected, put socks on before you put on underwear,” says Peter Joseph, DPM, a podiatrist with Allegheny Health Network in Pittsburgh.

3. Age is a risk factor. The older you get, the more likely you are to develop a toenail fungal infection. Adults over age 60 are particularly susceptible.

4. It can be contagious. It’s unlikely that you’ll catch toenail fungus from having coffee with a friend, but if you live in close quarters with someone who has it, be on the alert and take preventive measures. “Don’t wear a person’s socks or use their shoes if they have a toenail fungal infection,” Goad says. “Beyond that, the chance of it spreading to others is very low.” You can also reduce your risk of picking up a toenail fungal infection by wearing shower shoes in places like a public pool or gym locker room.

5. An injury can lead to an infection. If you damage your toenail, from an ill-fitting shoe for example, the nail can separate from the nail bed, allowing enough room for a fungus to take hold, Joseph says. “The organisms that cause toenail fungus are common inhabitants of our everyday environment in showers, hotels, and outdoors,” he says, “so the chance of exposure is high.” If you experience a nail injury, watch carefully for signs of a toenail fungal infection. Signs include a nail that becomes white, yellow, brittle, or thick.

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Toenail fungus, symptoms, first signs of the cause, how to identify the disease?

Possible complications

Untreated toenail fungus can progress rapidly. Over time, the disease becomes advanced, and it becomes very difficult to cope with it. Parasitic fungi can provoke the development of serious complications in the patient. Their appearance depends on a number of factors:

• the age of the patient;
• the presence of chronic ailments;
• bad habits.

If the fungus has penetrated deep into the nail, then it can gradually spread with blood to other parts of the body and internal organs of a person. As a result, infection on the legs leads to a weakening of the protective functions of the body and serious complications. Due to the development of onychomycosis may appear:

• allergic reaction;
• dermatitis;
• eczema;
• conjunctivitis;
• rhinitis;
• urticaria;
• bronchitis.

The patient may also develop bronchial asthma. The fungus is the cause of the deterioration of the patient’s emotional state. Patients may worry about visible defects on the toenails, especially for females. As a result, irritability and depression appear. Having got rid of parasites and cured the nail plates, over time it will be possible to establish the work of nerve cells.

How to identify fungus on toenails?

The patient, with the help of advice, is able to independently recognize the appearance of onychomycosis. To determine the presence of parasitic fungi, you must carefully consider your health. Before examining the nails, be sure to wipe off the varnish. This will help not to miss the symptoms characteristic of onychomycosis. If you suspect the appearance of parasitic fungi, you should:

• examine the shape of the nail;
• determine its structure;
• set plate color;
• see if the nail separates from the bed;
• find out if there is pain in the fingers;
• check for skin changes;
• determine the presence of an unpleasant odor.

If you constantly examine your fingers and watch for any changes, you can recognize the symptoms of toenail fungus in time and begin immediate treatment. Before you yourself diagnose this disease in yourself, you need to exclude other possible options for the appearance of pain. The following can lead to discomfort in the lower extremities:

• wearing tight and uncomfortable shoes;
• cutting the edges of the nails into the skin;
• leg injury.

It should be borne in mind that pain can also be felt in other diseases. Therefore, any diagnosis that the patient made himself cannot be one hundred percent reliable. Contacting a specialist will avoid ineffective treatment and lead to a speedy recovery of the patient.

Prevention

In order to avoid the unpleasant consequences of the development of nail fungus, it is necessary to prevent the disease. The best barrier to infection is a strong immune system. Therefore, due to the constant strengthening of the protective functions of the body, signs of toenail fungus may not appear. The following personal hygiene practices can also help reduce the risk of infection:

• do not walk barefoot in public places;
• daily change socks, stockings, tights;
• keep feet clean;
• wear breathable quality shoes;
• keep feet dry at all times;
• cut nails;
• to use only their own things.

Thoroughly wash hands and feet after visiting public places or using contaminated objects. If the disease is not completely cured, then it will recur from time to time. It is also possible to get the infection again. To avoid this, you need:

• spray shoes with antifungal spray;
• disinfect bath and shower;
• clean carpets regularly.

It should be borne in mind that it is possible to get rid of onychomycosis, but the treatment will be long, and the symptoms will be unpleasant and prolonged. Therefore, adhering to simple rules of personal hygiene, you can prevent the appearance of toenail fungus. Regular preventive measures will also reduce the risk of contracting other infections.

Foot fungus: symptoms, causes, treatment

Content

• 1 What does foot fungus look like and how to treat?
  • 1.1 What is foot fungus?
  • 1.2 What are the symptoms of foot fungus?
  • 1.3 What is the danger of foot fungus?
  • 1.4 How does foot fungus get infected?
  • 1.5 What causes foot fungus to develop?
  • 1. 6 Which groups of people are most susceptible to foot fungus?
  • 1.7 What is the diagnosis of foot fungus?
  • 1.8 What is the most effective treatment for foot fungus?
  • 1.9 What procedures help to eliminate the fungus on the feet?
  • 1.10 What preventive measures can be taken to avoid foot fungus?
  • 1.11 What complications can occur in case of untimely treatment of foot fungus?
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What are the symptoms of foot fungus?
      • 1.13.0.2 What is the cause of foot fungus?

Find out how to identify and treat foot fungus. Learn about the symptoms, causes, and effective treatments for a fungal infection on the soles of your feet.

Nail and foot fungus are common problems that can lead to symptoms and discomfort. A fungal infection of the feet can be caused by various fungi such as dermatophytes and yeast-like fungi. These fungi can thrive in warm and humid conditions, making the feet often prone to infection.

The main symptoms of foot fungus include itching, skin flaking, cracking and redness. In some cases, there is an odor of unpleasant odor caused by the destruction and decay of the skin. If the fungus is left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the foot and even to other areas of the body.

The main cause of foot fungus is contact with contaminated surfaces, such as shared towels in swimming pools, showers and locker rooms. Also, a fungal infection can be passed from person to person through contact, especially when using other people’s clothes and shoes.

It is important to know that there is no single treatment for toe fungus that works for everyone. Treatment may include the use of antimycotic ointments and creams, oral medications, special devices, and foot hygiene measures.

To prevent foot fungus infection, it is recommended to follow simple hygiene rules: avoid sharing towels and shoes, wear cool and dry shoes, change socks regularly, clean and dry feet after visiting public places, and monitor skin condition.

What is foot fungus?

Foot fungus is a common disease caused by dermatophyte or yeast fungi. It often manifests itself in the form of unpleasant symptoms, such as itching, peeling and cracks on the skin of the legs. Foot fungus is common in people who frequently wear closed-toed shoes or are in damp public places such as showers, swimming pools, or sports locker rooms.

For the treatment of foot fungus, it is necessary to observe the cleanliness and dryness of the feet, change socks and shoes regularly, and avoid wearing tight and uncomfortable shoes. In addition, there are various antimycotic drugs such as creams, sprays, and bath preparations that can help fight the infection. Consultation with a doctor may also be necessary to determine an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the most effective treatment.

What are the symptoms of foot fungus?

Fungus of the feet is a common disease that affects the skin and nails on the feet. This disease has several characteristic symptoms that can help in the diagnosis.

The main symptoms of foot fungus:

• Itching and burning – the appearance of itching and burning is one of the first signs of a fungal infection.
• Peeling and keratinization – the disease can lead to peeling and keratinization of the skin on the feet.
• Redness – Affected skin may appear reddened and inflamed.
• Cracks – A fungal infection can cause cracks in the skin on your feet.
• Bad smell – Fungal infections of the feet can cause a bad smell, especially after physical activity.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended that you see a doctor in order to receive adequate treatment and prevent the spread of a fungal infection.

What is the danger of foot fungus?

Foot fungus is a serious threat to human health and well-being. This infectious disease can lead to various complications if not addressed in time.

A fungal infection of the feet can be a source of disease in other parts of the body. For example, wearing shoes with infected feet can transmit the fungus on the surface of fragrant wood or dermatological materials. Several iterations of the infection will allow you to get a lot of damage to the disease throughout the body.

Foot fungus can also cause serious complications such as athletic foot or toenail fungus. If you do not contact a specialist in time and do not start treatment, these diseases can become chronic and further complicate the patient’s life.

How does foot fungus get infected?

Fungal infection of the feet is a common disease that can be caused by various types of fungi. Infection occurs through contact with fungi that can be found in public places such as swimming pools, saunas, showers and changing rooms. The main route of fungal infection transmission is direct contact with infected surfaces or objects such as floors, towels and shoes. This happens when the fungus gets on small lesions of the skin or nails, which can appear when wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes.

The fungi that cause disease usually thrive in warm, humid environments, so foot fungus is most likely to occur in crowded areas where surfaces are often wet or damp. This could be a public pool, a gym, or even communal showers in a hostel.

It is important to remember that fungal infections of the soles of the feet are contagious and spread easily from person to person or through infected objects. Therefore, it is recommended that you take precautions such as wearing your own shoes in public, washing and drying your feet regularly, and using antiseptics and changing socks daily.

What causes the development of foot fungus?

A fungal infection of the feet can develop for several reasons:

1. Wearing shoes made of synthetic materials. Artificial materials do not allow the skin of the legs to breathe, which creates a favorable environment for the development of the fungus.
2. Shared shoes and towels. A fungal infection can be transmitted through shared shoes or towels, especially in public places such as swimming pools, gyms, or shower rooms.
3. Improper foot hygiene. Insufficient washing and drying of the feet after contact with damp surfaces can contribute to the development of the fungus.
4. Weak immunity. People with weakened immune systems may develop a fungal infection more easily. This may be due to viral or other illnesses, the use of immunosuppressants, or a poor lifestyle.

It is important to remember that foot fungus affects not only the skin, but also the nail plate, so its treatment can take a long time and require an integrated approach.

Which groups of people are most susceptible to foot fungus?

Foot fungus can affect anyone, but some groups of people are at higher risk. One such group is athletes, as they are often exposed to conditions conducive to the development of a fungal infection. Humidity and heat, which usually accompany training, create ideal conditions for the reproduction of fungi.

Also, people who frequent public places such as swimming pools, saunas and locker rooms are also at risk of getting foot fungus. In such places, fungi can be found on the floor, in shoes, or on other surfaces, and upon contact with them, they can be transmitted to the feet.

In addition, people who have worn shoes that a person with the fungus has already worn are also at risk of contracting the disease. The fungus can be in shoes and stay on the surfaces of shoes for a long time, so it is extremely important to maintain shoe hygiene and not wear other people’s shoes.

What is the diagnosis of foot fungus?

Foot fungus is a common problem to be aware of. The diagnosis of foot fungus is usually based on clinical examination, examination of scrapings, and culture of the pathogen.

Doctors look for symptoms of foot fungus such as itching, redness, peeling, cracking, softening of the skin, and smell. Microscopic examinations are also carried out to determine the presence of the fungus and its type.

The diagnosis of foot fungus can be confirmed if the fungus is cultured in a laboratory. With an accurate diagnosis, the doctor can prescribe appropriate treatment and recommendations for the care of the affected feet in order to avoid a recurrence of the fungal infection.

What is the most effective treatment for foot fungus?

Foot fungus is a common disease that can lead to discomfort and symptoms. To get rid of the fungus, it is necessary to apply effective methods of treatment.

Antimycotic drugs: The most effective is the use of antimycotic drugs of external and systemic action. Depending on the extent of the lesion, your doctor may prescribe topical creams, gels, sprays, or tablets.

Treatment of local manifestations: in addition to the use of antimycotic agents, it is recommended to treat local manifestations of the fungus. To do this, you can use special nail solutions that will help remove the infection and improve the overall condition of the skin.

Hygiene and preventive measures: Good personal hygiene is essential for the effective treatment of foot fungus. It is recommended to frequently change socks and shoes, disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with fungus, and use personal hygiene items.

Physiotherapy treatments: Physiotherapy is one of the effective treatments for foot fungus. Procedures such as ultrasound therapy, electrophoresis or laser treatment will help reduce inflammation and speed up the healing of affected skin areas.

Immunomodulators: Your doctor may prescribe immunomodulators to increase immunity and strengthen the body’s defenses. This will help reduce the risk of fungus recurrence and speed up the healing process.

What procedures help to eliminate the fungus on the feet?

For the successful treatment of foot fungus, it is recommended to use complex therapy, which includes various procedures. It is important to understand that every body is different, so results may vary.

One of the main procedures that will help eliminate the fungus on the feet is the use of antimycotic creams or ointments. These drugs contain active substances that can inhibit the growth and reproduction of fungi. They should be applied to the affected areas of the skin several times a day for several weeks.

In addition to antimycotic creams, it is recommended to use special liquids or solutions for treating shoes. The fungus can remain on the shoes and re-infect the feet. Therefore, it is important to treat shoes regularly and keep them clean.

In addition, physiotherapy procedures such as UV irradiation can be applied. Ultraviolet rays are able to destroy fungi on the surface of the skin and nails. The duration of the course of physiotherapy can be varied and depends on the degree of damage.

Antifungal medications taken by mouth are one of the important remedies in the fight against foot fungus. They allow you to destroy the fungus not only on the surface of the skin, but also inside the body.

• Proper nail care – regular trimming and cleaning, use of special nail products, keeping feet dry;
• Use of antiseptic foot wash while showering or bathing;
• Changing socks made of natural materials, avoiding synthetic shoes;
• Use of antimycotic powders to help inhibit fungal growth;
• Seeing a dermatologist for treatment advice and prescribing necessary medications;
• Personal hygiene, including frequent change of slippers, towels and other personal items.

The safety and effectiveness of foot fungus treatment depends on the accuracy of the diagnosis and the regularity of the procedures. Only after consulting a doctor, you can choose the best integrated approach to the treatment and elimination of a fungal infection.

What preventive measures can be taken to avoid foot fungus?

Hygiene and special attention to the feet:

• Wash your feet regularly with warm soapy water and dry them thoroughly, paying particular attention to the perineum.
• One way to reduce the risk of getting a fungal infection is to dry your feet after washing with a hair dryer at a low temperature.
• Wear only dry and clean socks, preferably made from natural materials, to allow your feet to breathe and avoid sweating.
• Change your socks every day and also after sports or training.
• Avoid wearing other people’s shoes and shoes without adequate ventilation.

Wear comfortable and well-fitting shoes:

• Choose shoes made from natural materials with good ventilation.
• If there is a predisposition to fungal infections, it is recommended to use special antimicrobial insoles to reduce the risk of infection.

Avoid walking barefoot in public places:

• Fungal infection can be transmitted through the floor, showers or pools, so it is recommended to always wear shoes in public places where there is a high risk of infection, especially damp and warm rooms.

Avoid injury and poor blood supply to the legs:

• Be careful when cleaning nails so as not to injure the skin.
• Avoid long periods of sitting or standing in one position, which can lead to circulatory problems in the legs.

What complications can occur in case of untimely treatment of foot fungus?

Untimely treatment of foot fungus can lead to serious complications. First, the fungus can spread to nearby areas of the skin, causing various types of dermatitis. Very often this happens on the nail plates, which can lead to their deformation and loss.

Secondly, untimely treatment of foot fungus can lead to the development of fungal infections of the deep layers of the skin. In such cases, the disease becomes chronic and very difficult to treat.

Also, foot fungus can weaken the immune system and cause various types of infections. Patients suffering from fungal diseases are at increased risk of HIV infection, as the fungus creates a favorable environment for the virus to multiply.