Onychomycosis. That’s the medical term for toenail fungus, a common infection that affects around 12% of adults in the United States. The fungus causes the toenails (or fingernails) to thicken, discolor, and sometimes even crumble, which some may try to hide by painting toenails black.
If you’ve got toenail fungus, you might be wondering where it came from. Did you pick it up at the gym? Or could it be something you inherited?
The question, “Is toenail fungus hereditary?” is a complicated one. While toenail fungus itself isn’t directly passed down through your genes, there’s evidence to suggest that some people are genetically predisposed to developing it. This means that if your parents or grandparents had toenail fungus, you might be more likely to get it too. But genetics aren’t the whole story. Lifestyle and environmental factors also play a significant role.
In this article, we’ll explore the interplay between your genes, your habits, and your environment to understand why some people are more susceptible to toenail fungus than others.
What causes toenail fungus and who is at risk?
Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects the toenails (and sometimes the fingernails, too).
What causes nail fungus?
Nail fungus is caused by microscopic organisms that don’t belong there. Most of the time, the culprit is a type of fungus called a dermatophyte, but yeasts and molds can also cause it.
One specific dermatophyte, Trichophyton rubrum (or T. rubrum), is the main cause of most toenail infections. These fungi get into your nails through tiny cuts or separations between your nail and the skin around it.
Risk factors for developing nail fungus
Several things can make you more likely to get a nail fungus:
- Age: The older you are, the more likely you are to get it, especially after age 60. Kids almost never get it.
- Environment: Fungi love hot, humid places, so you’re more likely to get it if you spend a lot of time in those conditions.
- Health conditions: Athlete’s foot, diabetes, and a weakened immune system all increase your risk.
- Lifestyle choices: If your feet are often wet, if you smoke, or if you wear tight shoes, you’re also more likely to get nail fungus.
The role of genetics in onychomycosis
If you have toenail fungus, you may be wondering if you inherited it from your family.
Genetic predisposition to onychomycosis
If other people in your family have toenail fungus, you may be more likely to get it, too. Researchers have studied specific genes to see if there’s a link. For example, variations in the Dectin-1 gene may affect how likely you are to get toenail fungus and how long it lasts.
Genetic polymorphism and onychomycosis
Genetic polymorphisms are changes in your DNA sequence that can affect how your genes work. Researchers have looked at whether specific polymorphisms are linked to a higher risk of getting toenail fungus.
In 2014, a team of researchers led by Aditya K. Gupta studied genetic mutations and onychomycosis. Their work suggested that certain genetic factors may make some people more likely to develop fungal nail infections.
How genes influence the immune response to fungal infections
Your immune system is your body’s defense against infections, including fungal infections. If your immune system isn’t working well, you’re more likely to get toenail fungus.
Genes play a role in how your immune system responds, but some people look to home remedies, such as fingernail fungus and vinegar, for treatment. Genetic variations can affect your body’s ability to fight off fungal infections and clear them from your system. This means that some people may be genetically predisposed to having a weaker immune response to fungi, making them more susceptible to onychomycosis.
It’s important to remember that genetics is just one piece of the puzzle. Other factors, such as your hygiene habits, your overall health, and whether you have any underlying medical conditions, can also play a role in whether you get toenail fungus.
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors: Amplifying the Risk
While genetics might play a role in who gets toenail fungus, certain environmental and lifestyle factors definitely increase your risk.
Tinea Pedis and Onychomycosis
There’s a strong connection between athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) and toenail fungus (onychomycosis). In fact, onychomycosis is often linked to tinea pedis. One study found that 63.2% of patients with tinea pedis also had onychomycosis. That’s a huge overlap!
What does this mean for you? If you have athlete’s foot, you’re more likely to develop toenail fungus. And, importantly, treatment outcomes improve when both tinea pedis and onychomycosis are treated at the same time. So, if you suspect you have either condition, get it checked out!
The Effects of Shoe Gear and Sports on Onychomycosis
Your shoes can create a breeding ground for fungus. Closed-toe shoes, especially those made of non-breathable materials, trap moisture and warmth, creating the perfect environment for fungal growth. Factor in sweaty socks from a workout or all-day wear, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.
Sports activities exacerbate the problem. Think about it: athletes often wear tight-fitting shoes for extended periods, increasing moisture and friction. Plus, shared locker rooms and showers are prime locations for picking up fungal infections.
Cultural Habits
Certain cultural practices can also increase the risk of fungal infections. For example, cultures where people commonly walk barefoot in communal areas, like public showers or swimming pools, are more susceptible. Similarly, using shared nail clippers or pedicure tools without proper sterilization can spread fungus from person to person.
Age and toenail fungus: A closer look
If you’re older, you may be more likely to develop toenail fungus.
Onychomycosis, or toenail fungus, is more common as people age. It can appear in over 30% of people over 60 and over 50% of people over 70.
Why is toenail fungus more common in older adults?
As people age, they may experience:
- reduced immunity
- slower nail growth
- circulation issues
These factors can make older adults more vulnerable to toenail fungus infections.
Toenail fungus in children
Toenail fungus is less common in children than it is in adults. Worldwide, less than 0.5% of children under 18 have toenail fungus. In North America, the number is even lower, at 0.16%.
When children do get toenail fungus, the causes and treatments may be different than they are for adults.
Prevention and Management Strategies
Whether or not genetics play a role, there are several things you can do to minimize your risk of developing toenail fungus and manage existing infections:
- Practice good foot hygiene: Keep your feet clean and dry, especially after being in damp environments like swimming pools or showers.
- Wear appropriate footwear: Choose breathable shoes and socks made of moisture-wicking materials. Avoid shoes that are too tight or trap moisture.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public areas: Wear sandals or shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools to avoid exposure to fungal spores.
- Treat underlying conditions: Athlete’s foot, another fungal infection, can spread to the toenails. Treat athlete’s foot promptly to prevent further complications.
- See a healthcare professional: If you suspect you have toenail fungus, consult a doctor or podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. They can determine the best course of action based on the severity of your infection and your individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is toenail fungus contagious in bed?
Yes, toenail fungus can be contagious in bed, especially if you share bedding with someone. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, making bedding a potential breeding ground. Washing bedding frequently and avoiding sharing towels or socks can help minimize the risk of transmission.
What can be mistaken for toenail fungus?
Several conditions can mimic toenail fungus, including nail psoriasis, nail trauma, and certain bacterial infections. These conditions can cause similar symptoms like discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail, making accurate diagnosis essential. It’s always best to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation.
What kills toenail fungus the fastest?
Unfortunately, there’s no truly “fast” way to kill toenail fungus. Oral antifungal medications prescribed by a doctor are generally the most effective, but they require several months of treatment. Topical treatments are less effective but have fewer side effects. Laser therapy is another option, but its effectiveness can vary.
Will toenail fungus ever go away?
Yes, toenail fungus can go away with proper treatment, although it often takes a considerable amount of time. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and be patient, as it can take months for a new, healthy nail to grow out completely. Recurrence is possible, so maintaining good foot hygiene is essential.
Does hydrogen peroxide get rid of toenail fungus?
While some people find hydrogen peroxide helpful in managing toenail fungus, there’s limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness as a primary treatment. It may help to disinfect the area and prevent the spread of infection, but it’s unlikely to eradicate the fungus completely. Use it with caution and alongside other recommended treatments.
In Conclusion
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition that can affect your quality of life. While it’s not directly passed down through your genes, genetics, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices all play a role in whether you develop it.
If your parents or other close relatives have toenail fungus, you may be more likely to get it, but it’s not a guarantee. You can reduce your risk by practicing good hygiene, wearing shoes that fit well and allow your feet to breathe, and avoiding walking barefoot in public places.
If you think you have toenail fungus, get treatment early. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to get rid of the infection, which can have a negative impact on your overall well-being.