Is Toenail Fungus Contagious?

If you are suffering from toenail fungus, you probably find yourself wondering – is toenail fungus contagious? Yes, it is, which is why you must treat your infected toenail so as not to infect the other nails.

Toenail fungus is a common condition. That’s because many people don’t give that much attention to their toenails unless they start exhibiting symptoms of toenail fungus. Healthy toenails are shiny and smooth. But if you develop a fungal infection on your toenails, you will notice that the nails will start to brittle, thicken, and discolor. Unfortunately, this condition is contagious, which means you can pass it on to others. Also, if only one nail gets infected, there is a possibility that the other nails will get infected if you are not careful.

Causes of Toenail Fungus

Before we address the question, is toenail fungus contagious, let us first find out what are the causes behind this infection.

Usually, toenail fungus is caused by a fungus known as dermatophytes that would infect the skin under the nails. Yeast is another common culprit of toenail fungus. The toenails are especially vulnerable to infection once your bare feet get into contact with damp surfaces like swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms. If you develop an athlete’s foot, the infection will eventually spread to the nails.

Wearing closed and tight-fitting shoes for an extended period can also cause toenail fungus, especially if your socks have become damp due to sweat or heat. In addition, if your shoes fit snugly enough that it will put pressure on your toes, the nail bed will eventually get damaged, making the toenails more susceptible to fungal infection.

People suffering from chronic diseases like circulatory problems and diabetes are also at high risk of developing toenail infections.

Is Toenail Fungus Contagious?

When it comes to the question, is nail fungus contagious, the answer is yes. Toenail fungal infection can be contagious. But you will not catch it just by standing beside a person who has the infection. However, if you live in close quarters with someone who has a fungal infection, be very careful and take preventative measures to avoid getting infected.

Avoid wearing a person’s socks or shoes if you know they have toenail fungus. Also, when trimming your nails, make sure to disinfect the nail clippers, especially if the infected person has used them.

While toenail fungus infection is contagious, the chance of it spreading to others is very minimal. You can also minimize your risk of picking up the toenail fungus by wearing shower shoes when you shower, especially if you use a public shower. Also, when swimming at a public pool, try to wear something to cover your feet to lower your chances of getting infected.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungus

The symptoms of toenail fungus can develop slowly over time. In most cases, the fungus may go unnoticed at first. But if the condition is diagnosed early enough, it can be pretty easy to eradicate the fungus and save your nails from getting damaged. So, inspect your nails from time to time and be mindful of the changes.

Here are some of the symptoms of toenail fungus.

Crumbling or brittle nails

Darkening or clouding of nails

Distorted shape of the nails

Lack of shine

Nail thickening

Nails have foul odor

Pain at the tip of the toes

White spots on the nails

Yellowish discoloration of the nails

If your symptoms have gotten so severe or your toenails have started to turn black, it is best to make an appointment with your doctor instead of trying to treat the condition yourself.

Preventing Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus is not necessarily dangerous. But for those who have certain illnesses like diabetes, the fungal infection can develop into more severe symptoms. Therefore, it is best to prevent toenail fungus.

Follow these tips to minimize your risk of getting toenail fungal infection.

Trim your nails properly – cut your toenails properly and make sure you use nail clippers that have been well-sanitized. Make sure to cut your nails straight across to avoid jagged edges. You can use a nail file to gently sharpen the edges of your toenails after cutting them.

Avoid tight shoes – your shoes should not be touching your toenails in any way. Otherwise, you could put yourself at high risk of getting a toenail fungal infection. Avoid wearing shoes that are too loose or too tight, and make sure they are clean and dry before putting them on.

Wear ventilated footwear – the more air that can circulate inside your shoes, the better. Wearing ventilated footwear will allow the air to circulate better. Thus, your feet will be drier and less susceptible to fungus. Your best bet is to wear shoes made from breathable materials such as canvas or leather.

Alternate your footwear – putting the same shoes from yesterday’s sweaty workout could increase your risk of getting toenail fungus. Therefore, invest in a few good pairs of shoes so that you can alternate them. Try to avoid wearing the same pair of shoes in a row, especially during sweaty workouts.

Don’t go barefoot in public places – when using public pools, showers, and locker rooms in the gym, do not go barefoot. These areas are often loaded with fungi just waiting to get into your toenails. Always bring flip-flops that you can wear when showering at the gym.

Conclusion

So, is toenail fungus contagious? Yes, toenail fungus is infectious. Therefore, if you have this condition, always exercise proper foot hygiene to avoid infecting the other people in your household. Get your infection treated immediately by using antifungal medications. There are also home remedies for treating fungal infections, such as using foot soaks made of baking soda, Vicks VapoRub, Apple Cider Vinegar, or essential oils. And if your condition has gotten so severe, stop self-medicating. Instead, see a doctor immediately. Your doctor will diagnose your symptoms and prescribe proper treatment.