What actually causes toenail fungus? Usually everyone will deal with it at one point and time in their lives – it is a fact. Fungi are present on our skin, so oftentimes it is hard to say where nail infection comes from. For no apparent reason, nail infections can occur including toenail fungus. Here we will discuss the causes, avoiding the problem, and treatment options.

Onychomycosis Causes

The cause of toenail fungus can be many as it will evolve around warm and wet environments. Areas of exposure can include public showers, gymnasiums, saunas, public stalls, swimming pools, and local nail salons. Other causes can stem from working in environments which are warm, or wet.

People who constantly experience wet hands, such as dishwasher attendants and professional cleaners, can gain the nail infection. People who wear enclosed shoes and seldom let their feet air out can also cause onychomycosis. The sweat, moisture, and heat can entrap the skin of the feet and the result is toenail fungus.

Increased Activities

Let’s face it – our feet endure a lot of wear and tear in life. The feet endure activities of running, walking, playing sports, and much more. Any of these increased activities can lead to a tear, or crack, in the nail plate. The moisture found in our shoes and socks can enter through these nail cracks giving an invitation to the fungus. It can be very difficult to get rid of the nail infection unless topical, or oral, medications are used.

Weak Immune Systems & More

Another challenge with developing nail fungus is for individuals who have weak immune systems. Individuals who have AIDS or HIV can be at increased risk. Other people who have undergone organ transplants can also be at risk.

Individuals who smoke tobacco are at better risk for developing nail fungus. Also those who are older than 70 years of age are at risk – covering nearly half of the cases. If you have diabetes, or circulation issues, you are also at greater risk.

Genetics can play a role in the risk factor. This is commonly seen if a parent seems more susceptible to getting nail fungus, then children may carry the same genetic predisposition.

Maintaining Proper Care

Causes of toenail fungus can be a result of improper care of the feet. Good hygiene is needed to help to prevent nail infections. Drying your feet properly every day after showing is important. Wet towels can also spread nail fungus as well as contact with bathroom floors – if someone is infected with the disease and made surface contact. Remember, toenail fungus can be spread from one set of feet to another. Several people in one household will commonly spread the fungus to each other.

If you have itchy feel and unknowingly have fungus – scratching your feet can transfer the infection to your fingernails. Always take the time to properly wash and dry your hands.

Using Nail Polish

The use of nail polish can worsen nail infections. If proper care is not used, using polish can also create a situation which will help the development of infection. Care should be given to ensure the nails are clean, dry, and free from infection before using a bottle of nail polish. If seeing a manicurist, take your own bottle of polish with you – so you know that only you have used the polish.

Odd Shaped and Discolored Nails

If you have discolored, or odd-shaped nails – it is not always a result of having a fungal infection. Sometimes, other conditions can result in the same symptoms. Psoriasis as well as trauma to the nail can cause disfigurement, and discoloration. Nails discomforts which are truly a result of a fungal organism can be caused by yeast infections, as well as trichophyton rubrum.

Effective Treatment

Toe nail fungus can be treated effectively by ZetaClear. It is an amazing solution which provides great results for many. Numerous documentations have been written by people who have used the product and seen quick recovery. It is also known to help with the prevention of further infections. For more information, please take a look at our review of ZetaClear, and Funginix.