Onychomycosis, or fungal nail infection, is a common condition. The fungus that causes it often affects toenails more than fingernails. It’s estimated that around 10% of American adults will experience a fungal nail infection at some point.
If you have a fungal nail infection, you may wonder, “Can I go swimming with a fungal nail infection?” You’re probably concerned about spreading the infection to others or making your own infection worse.
Swimming can be a great form of exercise, so it’s normal to want to continue your routine, even when you’re dealing with onychomycosis. The good news is, you can often still swim. This article will explore the risks of swimming with onychomycosis, what you can do to prevent spreading the infection, and when it’s best to stay out of the water altogether.
What is onychomycosis?
Onychomycosis, also known as tinea unguium, is just a fancy way of saying “fungal nail infection.” It’s a pretty common condition.
These infections are usually caused by fungi called dermatophytes, but sometimes yeasts and molds are the culprits.
Two common dermatophytes you may encounter are Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton interdigitale.
Symptoms of onychomycosis
If you have a fungal nail infection, you might notice:
- Your nail getting thicker
- Discoloration (often yellowish or whitish)
- Your nail becoming brittle and crumbly
Types of onychomycosis
There are a few different types of fungal nail infections. The most common is called distal subungual onychomycosis. There’s also proximal subungual onychomycosis.
Proximal subungual onychomycosis is often linked to immune systems that aren’t working as well as they should. If you have this type of infection, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about whether you need any further testing or treatment for an underlying condition.
How toenail fungus spreads
First, it’s important to understand that toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is contagious. So, if you’ve got it, you can spread it to other people, much like athlete’s foot.
How? The most common way is through direct contact. That could mean touching someone else’s infected nail. It could also mean touching a surface that has the fungus on it. Shared surfaces in public areas, like showers and pools, are notorious for harboring the fungus.
Toenail fungus loves warm, moist environments — which is why it thrives in those public areas. These conditions are perfect for fungal growth, making it easier for the infection to spread from person to person.
Risks of Swimming with Toenail Fungus in Public Pools
Swimming in a public pool with toenail fungus isn’t just a risk for you, it also puts others at risk, too. Public pools are like fungal infection super-spreaders. Think about it: lots of people, bare feet, and warm, moist environments – it’s a fungus’s dream come true!
And the risk isn’t just spreading it around. You could also end up reinfecting yourself. Even if you’re treating your toenail fungus, those fungal spores can linger on surfaces around the pool, like the pool deck or in the showers. So, you could be battling that fungus over and over again.
Let’s face it, public pools aren’t exactly known for their pristine hygiene. Sure, they chlorinate the water, but it’s tough to keep everything perfectly clean in a shared space. So, while a refreshing swim sounds great, it might be worth thinking twice before exposing your feet (and everyone else’s) to the potential for fungal fun.
How to keep from spreading toenail fungus when swimming
Toenail fungus loves warm, moist places, so it’s not surprising that public pools and locker rooms are breeding grounds for it. Here are some things you can do to avoid spreading the fungus to others or re-infecting yourself.
Protective measures
One of the best things you can do is to create a physical barrier between your feet and potentially contaminated surfaces.
- Wear water shoes or swim socks in the pool.
- Never walk barefoot in communal areas such as the pool deck or showers.
Hygiene practices
Good hygiene can also make a big difference. Here are some tips:
- Apply a topical antifungal treatment to the affected nails before and after swimming. This can help reduce the fungal load and prevent the fungus from spreading any further. Some even explore options like whether Bacillus Subtilis can help with toenail fungus.
- After swimming, dry your feet and toenails thoroughly. Fungi thrive in moist environments, so drying is crucial.
- Wash your feet regularly with soap and water, and keep your toenails trimmed short.
Also, consider using a product such as a tea tree oil foot soak. Although more research is needed, some studies show that tea tree oil may have antifungal properties.
If you have a toenail fungal infection, it’s important to take steps to prevent it from spreading. By following the tips above, you can help protect yourself and others from this common infection.
When to avoid swimming
While swimming with a fungal nail infection is generally okay, there are times when it’s best to stay out of the pool. Here’s when you should probably keep your feet dry:
- Severe infections: If your infection is severe and causing open wounds or significant inflammation, it’s best to avoid swimming.
- Compromised immune system: If your immune system isn’t functioning as it should, talk to your doctor before going swimming with a fungal nail infection.
- Active outbreaks: If your infection is spreading rapidly or you’re experiencing an active outbreak, it’s best to wait until it calms down before hitting the pool.
Treatment Options for Onychomycosis
If you’ve got a fungal nail infection, there are a few treatment paths you can pursue. Here’s a breakdown, including exploring if honey can kill toenail fungus.
- Topical treatments: You can find over-the-counter antifungal creams and solutions, but your doctor can also prescribe stronger versions.
- Oral medications: Your doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal medication if topical treatments don’t work. Keep in mind that oral medications can have potential side effects, so be sure to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Other treatments: In severe cases, your doctor might recommend laser treatment or even surgical removal of the infected nail.
It’s always best to talk to your doctor about the best treatment option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
Vicks VapoRub contains ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which possess antifungal properties. While not a guaranteed cure, some studies suggest these ingredients can inhibit fungal growth and help improve the appearance of infected nails. It’s often used as a complementary treatment alongside other methods.
Do I need to throw away my shoes if I have toenail fungus?
You don’t necessarily need to throw away your shoes, but it’s crucial to disinfect them regularly. Fungus can thrive in shoes, potentially leading to reinfection. Use antifungal sprays or powders inside your shoes to kill any lingering spores. Also, alternate shoes to allow them to dry out completely between wearings.
What to avoid when you have nail fungus?
Avoid walking barefoot in public places like locker rooms and swimming pools, as these are breeding grounds for fungus. Also, avoid sharing nail clippers or files, and try to keep your feet dry and well-ventilated. Tight-fitting shoes and synthetic socks can create a moist environment that encourages fungal growth.
How contagious is fungal nail infection?
Fungal nail infections are moderately contagious. They can spread through direct contact with infected surfaces or individuals. This is why it’s important to practice good hygiene, avoid sharing personal items, and disinfect surfaces that may come into contact with the fungus.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
No, you shouldn’t attempt to cut off your toenail yourself. This could lead to further complications, such as infection or ingrown toenails. If your nail is severely affected or causing pain, consult with a podiatrist. They may recommend partial or complete nail removal as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, but this should only be done under professional supervision.
Summary
Swimming with a fungal nail infection carries the risk of spreading the infection to others, especially in shared spaces like public pools. The good news is that you can minimize these risks by taking precautions like covering your infected nail with a waterproof bandage or wearing pool shoes.
Prompt treatment and careful hygiene are essential. Start treating your nail fungus as soon as you suspect you have it. This can help prevent the infection from getting worse or spreading to other nails or people.
Ultimately, responsible swimming means being mindful of your health and the health of others. By taking simple precautions and seeking prompt treatment, you can continue to enjoy swimming while minimizing the risk of spreading a fungal nail infection.