Are You at Risk for Toenail Fungus? Here’s What You Need to Know

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, doesn’t discriminate—it can affect anyone. However, for some, the risk is much higher due to lifestyle choices, health conditions, or even the environments they frequent. Imagine stepping into a warm, damp locker room after a workout or spending long days in boots that barely let your feet breathe. These everyday moments can set the stage for a fungal infection to take hold.

The good news? Understanding the factors that put you at risk can help you take control. Whether you’re an athlete, a frequent nail salon visitor, or someone with a busy life who overlooks foot care, knowing what makes you vulnerable is essential to prevention. Let’s dive into who’s most at risk for toenail fungus and what you can do to protect yourself.

1.    Age

As we age, our bodies undergo changes that can quietly increase the risk of toenail fungus. If you’re in your golden years or caring for aging parents, it’s worth paying closer attention to foot health. For older adults, certain factors come into play:

• Slower Healing: A lifetime of wear and tear affects how quickly the body can heal. Since toenails grow more slowly, they give fungus extra time to settle and spread.
• Blood Flow Challenges: Circulation naturally decreases with age, especially to the extremities, like your toes. This reduced blood flow can make it harder for the body to eradicate toenail fungus.
• Cumulative Exposure: Decades of walking barefoot in locker rooms, visiting swimming pools, or wearing tight shoes can add up, increasing vulnerability over time.

It’s not uncommon for older adults to overlook their toenails. They may not notice small changes like discoloration or thickening, which are early signs of a fungal infection. If you or someone in your care is older, regular foot checks and a bit of extra TLC can make a difference in keeping toenails healthy

2.    Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts

If you’re into sports or regular workouts, your active lifestyle might unknowingly put your feet at risk. Picture this: after a long, intense game or gym session, your feet are trapped in damp, sweaty shoes. Then, you step into a humid locker room or communal shower—prime conditions for fungi to thrive.

Athletes often deal with:

• Sweaty Feet: Prolonged moisture in socks and shoes creates the perfect environment for fungal growth.
• Micro-Injuries: Activities like running or jumping can cause small cracks or trauma to toenails, giving fungi an easy way in.
• Shared Spaces: Locker rooms, swimming pools, and gym showers are breeding grounds for fungal infections, especially if you’re barefoot.

To protect your feet, prioritize breathable footwear and keep a pair of flip-flops handy for communal areas. Taking these precautions can keep your active lifestyle from turning into a problem for your toenails

3.    Weakened Immune System

If your immune system is weak, your body has a harder time fighting infections, including toenail fungus. This can happen for many reasons, such as medical treatments, chronic illnesses, or certain medications. For instance, if you’re undergoing chemotherapy, living with conditions like HIV/AIDS, or taking immunosuppressive drugs after an organ transplant, your immune defenses are likely compromised.

Think of your immune system as your body’s defense team. When it’s weakened, fungi have an easier time invading and spreading. Even something as simple as a scratch or small cut on your toe can provide an entry point. Staying vigilant about foot hygiene and checking your toenails regularly is crucial if your immune system isn’t at its strongest.

4.    Diabetes

Diabetes significantly raises the risk of toenail fungus, making prevention especially important for those managing this condition. When blood sugar levels run high, it can weaken your body’s natural defenses and provide an ideal environment for fungal infections to grow. Here’s how diabetes plays a role:

• Peripheral Neuropathy: High blood sugar can damage nerves in your feet, reducing sensation. This makes it harder to notice early signs of a fungal infection, like subtle discoloration or changes in nail texture.
• Poor Circulation: Diabetes often leads to reduced blood flow to the extremities, which slows down your body’s ability to heal and fight infections.

If you have diabetes, take extra care of your feet. Inspect them daily for unusual changes and talk to your doctor about effective preventative measures. Early action can save you from long-term complications.

5.    Family History and Genetics

Genetics and family history can impact your chances of developing toenail fungus. Some individuals might be more likely to get fungal infections because of inherited traits, including:

• Nail Structure: The shape and structure of your nails, which may be influenced by genetics, can affect how easily fungi can invade and cause infections. If you have thicker or more curved nails, they could be more prone to fungal growth.
• Immune Response: A family history of fungal infections may suggest that your immune system could be less effective at fighting off certain types of fungi. If close relatives struggle with fungal infections, it may indicate that your body is more vulnerable as well.

6.    Frequent Use of Nail Salons

Regular trips to nail salons can be a relaxing way to care for your feet, but they can also raise the risk of toenail fungus if proper hygiene isn’t followed. Tools like nail clippers, files, and buffers can carry fungi if not properly sterilized. To help reduce this risk:

• Choose salons that use medical-grade sterilization equipment: This ensures tools are thoroughly cleaned and safe.
• Bring your own tools: If you’re concerned about cleanliness, bringing your clippers or files can give you peace of mind.
• Avoid shared footbaths: Unless you’re sure the salon thoroughly cleans them, it’s best to avoid using shared footbaths.

7.    Occupational Hazards

Some jobs can put you at a higher risk for toenail fungus, especially those that involve long hours in heavy boots or working in damp conditions. Some of the risky professions include:

• Farmers
• Construction workers
• Healthcare professionals

People in these professions are more likely to be exposed to environments where fungi thrive. If you work in these fields, it’s crucial to take extra steps to keep your feet dry and clean. Regularly changing socks, wearing breathable footwear, and keeping your feet dry after work can help prevent fungal infections.

8.    Smoking

Smoking is linked to a higher risk of toenail fungus due to its negative effects on circulation. When you smoke, blood flow to your feet is reduced, which makes it harder for your body to fight off infections. Without enough blood reaching your toes, your immune system can’t respond as quickly to fungal invaders.

Additionally, smoking can weaken the health of your nails, leaving them more vulnerable to damage and infection. This weakened nail structure creates an easy entry point for fungi to take hold.

If you’re a smoker, pay attention to your feet and nails. Keeping your feet dry and practicing good foot hygiene can help lower your risk. However, quitting smoking can improve circulation and overall nail health, giving your body a better chance at preventing infections.

9.    Pre-Existing Foot Problems

If you already have foot problems, you may be at a higher risk for toenail fungus. Conditions like athlete’s foot can easily spread to your toenails if not treated promptly. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin between the toes, and it can move to the toenails, causing infections that are harder to treat.

Other issues include:

• Ingrown toenails
• Calluses or corns that break the skin’s barrier

These foot problems can also create openings for fungi to enter and cause infections. If you have any of these conditions, treat them early and take extra care of your feet. Keeping your feet clean, dry, and properly treated can help reduce the risk of toenail fungus.

10. Use of Artificial Nails

Artificial nails can increase the risk of toenail fungus if not properly cared for. These nails can trap moisture between the artificial layer and the natural nail, creating a dark, damp environment where fungi thrive. The moisture can get trapped even more if the nails are kept on for a long time or if they become damaged. This kind of environment is what fungi need to grow.

Additionally, improper application or removal of artificial nails can damage your natural nails. If the nail is weakened or injured, it becomes easier for fungi to invade and cause an infection. Whether you’re using acrylics, gels, or press-on, it’s essential to ensure they’re applied and removed carefully to avoid harm to your nails and prevent fungal infections from taking hold.

11. Previous Nail Injuries and Toenail Fungus

If you’ve ever injured your nails—whether stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on your foot, or even losing a nail—you may be more prone to toenail fungus. When your nails are damaged, they become vulnerable and provide an easy entry point for fungi. Fungal infections can take advantage of any cracks or breaks in the nail to make their way in.

The regrowth process after an injury can also be slow, prolonging the time your nails are at risk. Even once your nail starts growing back, it may not be as strong as before the injury, leaving it more susceptible to infection. If you’ve had a nail injury in the past, keep the area clean, avoid putting too much pressure on it, and be mindful of any signs of infection to reduce your chances of developing toenail fungus.

12. Prolonged Use of Closed-Toe Shoes

While closed-toe shoes are necessary for many activities, wearing them for a long time without proper ventilation can increase the risk of toenail fungus. Shoes like work boots, tight-fitting sneakers, or any footwear made from non-breathable materials trap moisture and heat, creating a warm, damp environment—exactly where fungi thrive.

If you spend most of your day in closed-toe shoes, give your feet a chance to breathe. Wear breathable footwear when possible, and ensure you dry your feet thoroughly after being in shoes for an extended period. Changing socks regularly and allowing your shoes to air out can also help prevent fungi from taking hold. Taking small steps to keep your feet dry and cool will go a long way in reducing the risk of toenail fungus.

What Can You Do to Reduce Your Risk?

While certain factors can increase your chances of developing toenail fungus, there are several steps you can take to lower your risk and keep your feet healthy. Here’s how you can protect yourself:

1.    Practice Good Foot Hygiene

Washing your feet daily is key to preventing toenail fungus. Ensure you dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes, as moisture can promote fungal growth. Trim your nails regularly, cutting them straight across to avoid ingrown nails, which can lead to infection.

2.    Choose Breathable Footwear

Choose breathable materials like leather, mesh, or canvas. These materials allow air to circulate, keeping your feet cool and dry. Avoid tight-fitting shoes that trap sweat and moisture, as they create a perfect environment for fungi to grow.

3.    Use Antifungal Products Preventatively

Consider using antifungal powders, sprays, or creams, especially in high-risk environments like gyms, locker rooms, or public pools. These products help to keep fungi at bay and prevent infections from taking hold.

4.    Avoid Walking Barefoot in Public Areas

You may be tempted to relax and go barefoot in pools or locker rooms. However, these communal areas are common breeding grounds for fungal infections. Always wear protective footwear like sandals or water shoes to protect your feet from exposure.

5.    Treat Athlete’s Foot Promptly

If you notice the signs of athlete’s foot—such as itching, redness, or peeling skin—take action immediately. Treating fungal skin infections promptly can prevent them from spreading to your toenails and causing a more serious problem.

Conclusion

If you’re at risk for toenail fungus, staying proactive is key. Regularly inspecting your feet for signs of infection can help you catch toenail fungus early before it spreads. Look for symptoms like discoloration, thickening, or crumbling of the nails. The sooner you address the issue, the easier it is to treat.

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Our toenail fungus treatment, which contains powerful undecylenic acid, is designed to help eliminate the infection quickly and effectively. Take action now, and keep your feet healthy and fungus-free.