What Causes Toe Infections?
Introduction A toe infection can occur at any time either on the flesh of the toe as well as on or underneath the toenail. A toe infection is usually characterized by swelling, redness, foul odor, discolored nails, or thick and brittle nails. Without treatment a toe infection can sometimes spread to other areas of the foot, and may even progress to the point where amputation of the toe may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading. Conditions For a toe infection to occur, there must first be the right conditions. Cuts and scrapes are one of the most common ways in which a toe infection can take hold. Infections can also occur from cracking due to dry skin, or a rupture in the plate of the toenail. Ingrown toenails and hang nails can also create the necessary conditions for an infection to occur. Certain other conditions can increase your chances of developing an infection such as wearing shoes that are not well ventilated or walking on shower floors or pool decks without fli
