Athlete’s foot and fungus nails are extremely common. Athlete’s foot (also known as tinea pedis) is a fungal infection that affects the skin of your feet, especially between your toes. Fungus nails, or onychomycosis, is also a fungal infection, but it affects your toenails.
These two conditions are linked, as athlete’s foot often leads to fungus nails.
Treating athlete’s foot right away is key to preventing it from spreading to your toenails. If you suspect you have either of these conditions, it’s important to get a diagnosis and start treatment as soon as possible.
This article will tell you more about what causes athlete’s foot and fungus nails, what the symptoms are, how to prevent these infections, and what treatment options are available.
Understanding Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot, also known as Tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that attacks the skin on your feet. It’s super common, and it’s also pretty annoying.
The telltale signs of athlete’s foot include scaly, peeling, itchy, red, and cracked skin. You’ll usually notice it between your toes first.
Athlete’s foot is highly contagious. The fungus spreads easily through shared items like towels and nail clippers. Public places, like locker rooms and showers, are also breeding grounds for this fungus.
And just a heads up: the same fungus that causes athlete’s foot can also cause jock itch. So, if you’re dealing with an itchy groin area, that could be the culprit, too.
Understanding Toenail Fungus (Onychomycosis)
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a pretty common nail infection. If you’ve got it, you might notice that your toenails are:
- Thickened
- Discolored (often yellow or brown)
- Brittle
- Crumbly
- Ragged
- Misshapen
You might also notice that your nail is separating from the nail bed or that there’s an odor coming from the nail.
Fungus in the toenails often develops after someone has had athlete’s foot. Once it starts, toenail fungus is progressive and can spread to other nails.
What causes athlete’s foot and fungal nails?
Athlete’s foot and fungal nails are both caused by fungi. These fungi are called dermatophytes. Yeast, bacteria, and molds can also cause these infections.
One of the most common fungi that causes athlete’s foot and fungal nails is called Trichophyton rubrum, or T. rubrum for short.
Who is at risk for athlete’s foot and fungal nails?
Some people are more likely than others to get athlete’s foot and fungal nails. Risk factors include:
- Older age
- Wearing sweaty shoes or socks
- Having athlete’s foot
- Walking barefoot in damp public places
- Having minor skin or nail injuries
- Having psoriasis
- Having diabetes
- Having a weakened immune system
Complications of untreated fungal infections
If you ignore athlete’s foot, the fungus can spread to other parts of your body. Also, you might get a secondary bacterial infection on top of the fungal infection — a double whammy! In some instances, nail fungus can cause bleeding and should be addressed promptly.
As for toenail fungus, if you don’t treat it, you could end up with permanent nail damage and pain. Plus, it can open the door for other infections. If you have diabetes, toenail fungus can cause even more serious complications, threatening your limbs. The infection can lead to foot ulcers and cellulitis.
Treatment options
The good news is that both athlete’s foot and toenail fungus respond to treatment.
Athlete’s foot treatment
For athlete’s foot, you can often treat it yourself with creams and sprays you can buy at the drugstore, but for more stubborn fungal issues, there are treatments such as Jaysuing 7 Days nail fungus treatment. In severe cases, you may need prescription-strength medication.
Toenail fungus treatment
Toenail fungus can be tougher to treat. Your podiatrist may recommend:
- Topical medications, such as Tolcylen cream
- Oral medications
- Laser treatment
Often, the best approach is a combination of treatments.
Treating surrounding skin
One thing that’s important is to treat the skin around the affected nails. If you don’t, you could easily get reinfected. Your podiatrist can help with this part of the process.
Prevention strategies
The best way to deal with athlete’s foot and fungal nails is to prevent them from happening in the first place. When it comes to prevention, foot hygiene is key.
Here are some tips for keeping your feet healthy and fungus-free:
- Keep your feet clean and dry.
- Dry your feet thoroughly after washing, use antifungal foot powder, and moisturize your nails.
- Wear absorbent socks and change them throughout the day if your feet sweat a lot.
- Choose shoes made of breathable materials like leather or canvas.
- Wear flip-flops or shower shoes in public showers and locker rooms.
- Don’t share nail implements or towels with other people.
- Disinfect your shoes regularly.
- Consider using a nail hardener to protect your nails.
- Trim your nails straight across, smooth the edges, and file down any thickened areas.
- Disinfect your nail clippers after each use.
- Give up nail polish and artificial nails, which can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for fungus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to throw away my shoes if I have toenail fungus?
It’s a good idea to disinfect your shoes if you have toenail fungus to prevent reinfection. You don’t necessarily need to throw them away, but using antifungal sprays or powders inside your shoes can help kill any lingering fungus.
Is it OK to cut a fungus toenail off?
No, you shouldn’t try to cut off a fungal toenail yourself. This can lead to infection, bleeding, and further complications. Instead, consult with a podiatrist or doctor for proper treatment and nail care.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
It’s best to wear clean, breathable socks to bed if you have toenail fungus. This helps absorb moisture and prevents the fungus from spreading. Change your socks daily and wash them in hot water to kill any fungal spores.
What happens if you have toenail fungus for too long?
If left untreated, toenail fungus can worsen, causing pain, thickening of the nail, and potential spread to other nails or skin. In severe cases, it can lead to difficulty walking or secondary bacterial infections. Prompt treatment is essential.
How do you treat athlete’s foot and fungal nails?
Treatment for athlete’s foot typically involves topical antifungal creams or sprays. Fungal nails may require oral antifungal medications, topical treatments, or laser therapy. It’s important to consult with a doctor or podiatrist for proper diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan.
To conclude
Athlete’s foot and toenail fungus are related conditions that can be uncomfortable and persistent. Early treatment is important to prevent them from spreading or getting worse.
The best way to avoid these problems is to practice good foot care and hygiene. Check your feet regularly, and talk with a podiatrist if you notice any changes or have any concerns.