What is Toe Fungus?
Toe fungus is an infection caused by a form of tinea, or ringworm. Specifically, toe fungus usually begins with the invasion of tinea unguium, which first attacks the toenail. The infection is highly contagious and may quickly affect all of the toes of one or both feet. Toe fungus can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and lead to complications. Unfortunately, it can also be difficult to get rid of. Since fungi are capable of thriving without light, the feet can easily become a breeding ground for fungal infections. In addition, the wearing of socks and shoes for long periods of time provides an environment abundant in warmth and moisture. It is also speculated that since the toes may have less blood circulating than other parts of the body, it may be easier for toe fungus to escape detection by the immune system. The first sign of a fungus is the unusual appearance of one or more toenails, often recognized by a small white or yellow spot on the nail surface. Known as onychomycosis, a nail i
Toe fungus is an infection that gets under your nail and can spread quickly. It’s scientific name is “onychomycosis.” As with most fungi, it thrives in warm, dark places so your toenails are a perfect place. The fungus attacks the cells under your nails and then “eats” the debris. (Pretty nasty, huh?) Once it gets started, it spreads throughout the nail as the fungus continues to attack cells.
