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What Causes Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus (medically known as onychomycosis) is a common condition that affects the appearance and health of nails. While it may seem like a cosmetic issue, toenail fungus can cause discomfort and, in severe cases, lead to complications.

At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus, our team is here to help you address issues like toenail fungus with expert care and advanced treatment options. If you’re struggling with an infected nail, contact us today to schedule an appointment!

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Topic at a Glance

  • Toenail fungus is a common fungal infection that develops in the nail bed and nail plate, often causing discoloration, thickening, and brittle nails.
  • Warm, moist environments increase the risk, including swimming pools, locker rooms, tight shoes, and poor foot hygiene.
  • Toenail fungus is contagious and can spread to other nails, surrounding skin, or from conditions like athlete’s foot.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes, with options including topical antifungals, oral medications, laser treatment, or nail removal in severe cases.

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What is Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus (medically known as onychomycosis) is a common fungal infection that affects the appearance and overall health of nails. While it may seem like a cosmetic issue, nail fungus can cause discomfort and, if left untreated, may lead to permanent damage.

Fungal growth occurs in the nail bed and nail plate, causing nails to become brittle, thickened, or discolored. These microscopic organisms thrive in warm, moist environments, making feet a prime target, especially when enclosed in shoes for long hours. Left untreated, fungal nail infections can spread to other nails and surrounding skin, causing further discomfort.

What Are the Common Causes of Toenail Fungus?

A foot with toenail fungus in Columbus, Ohio.

Toenail fungus can develop due to several factors, including:

  • Exposure to damp environments: Swimming pools, locker rooms, gym showers, and public showers create moist environments where fungi thrive.
  • Nail injuries: A damaged nail bed can allow fungal infections to take hold.
  • Wearing tight shoes: When you wear shoes that restrict airflow, moisture builds up. It’s important to choose shoes that allow ventilation.
  • Poor hygiene: Failing to maintain good foot hygiene or not keeping your feet dry increases the risk.
  • Using contaminated tools: Equipment at nail salons or applying artificial nails without proper sanitation can spread infection.
  • Medical conditions: People with a weakened immune system or poor blood circulation are at higher risk of developing toenail fungus.

Is Nail Fungus Contagious?

Yes, toenail fungus is contagious. Nail fungus can spread to your foot, and foot fungus (called athlete’s foot) can spread to your toenails. Fungal spores can also spread between people through direct contact or shared surfaces, such as communal showers or floors.

Fungal infections can also spread within your household if infected nail clippings or tools are not properly handled. Taking precautions, like wearing sandals or shower shoes in shared spaces, can help prevent toenail fungus and other foot and ankle conditions, such as athlete’s foot, from spreading.

How Can You Tell if You Have Toenail Fungus?

Common signs of a fungal nail infection include the following:

  • Discoloration (white, yellow, or brown hues)
  • Thickened or brittle nails
  • Crumbling at the nail edges
  • Changes in nail shape
  • A foul odor from the nail

Symptoms often begin with nail changes that may affect one nail before spreading. If caught early, treatment is more effective.

Diagnosing Toenail Fungus

Diagnosing toenail fungus often involves a clinical examination of the infected nail. However, only about 50% of abnormal nails are fungal in nature. In some cases, a sample of the nail or debris from under the nail bed may be sent to a lab to identify the specific type of fungus. Accurate diagnosis is crucial to choosing the best course of action for treating toenail fungus.

How is Toenail Fungus Treated?

The treatment for toenail fungus depends on the severity of the infection:

  • Topical antifungal medications: Antifungal nail polish or creams can be effective for mild infections.
  • Oral medications: Prescription oral antifungal medication may be recommended for persistent or severe cases. It is often considered the most effective treatment.
  • Laser treatments: A non-invasive option that temporarily clears the nail but is not as effective at curing the fungus.
  • Surgical nail removal: For severely infected nails, surgical removal (temporary or permanent) may be necessary.
  • Non-surgical nail removal: Special treatments can soften and remove the infected nail without surgery.

According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, the sooner you get professional treatment, the greater your chance of getting your nails to clear.

Prognosis

With proper care and treatment, most cases of toenail fungus can be effectively managed. While some infections clear up within weeks, others may take months to fully resolve. As the new nail grows, it will gradually replace the infected area and restore a clear nail. It’s important to follow your treatment plan to achieve the best outcome.

Can Toenail Fungus Be Prevented?

Preventing toenail fungus requires consistent hygiene and smart practices, such as:

  • Keeping your feet clean and dry.
  • Avoiding tight-fitting shoes.
  • Wearing breathable socks.
  • Using antifungal nail polish to protect against fungal nail infections.
  • Avoid walking barefoot in public places like pools or gyms.
  • Ensuring tools at the nail salon are properly sterilized. 
  • Avoid artificial nails as these and nail polish trap moisture from your nail bed.

By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the spread of toenail fungus.

Trust Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center for Expert Nail Care

If you’re dealing with toenail fungus or any other concerns affecting your nails or feet, Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus is here to help. Our team offers personalized treatment options, from advanced laser treatments to expert advice on preventing future fungal infections. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healthier nails!

Medically reviewed by Sarah Abshier, DPM, CWS

FAQs About What Causes Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus develops when fungi enter the nail through small cracks or injuries. Common causes include damp environments, tight shoes, poor hygiene, contaminated nail tools, and medical conditions like poor circulation or a weakened immune system.

Yes, toenail fungus is contagious. It can spread through direct contact, shared surfaces such as public showers or locker rooms, and contaminated nail tools. Athlete’s foot can also spread to the toenails.

Early symptoms include nail discoloration, thickened nails, brittle texture, crumbling edges, and changes in nail shape. The infection often begins in one nail before spreading to others.

Treatment depends on the severity. Mild infections may respond to topical antifungal medications, while more severe cases often require oral antifungal medication, which is typically considered the most effective treatment.

Yes. You can reduce your risk by keeping feet clean and dry, wearing breathable shoes, avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, using properly sterilized nail tools, and avoiding artificial nails that trap moisture.