Toenail fungus is much more common than fingernail fungus. The dark, warm, moist environment of a shoe provides an ideal environment for fungus to grow. Men are more likely to be affected by this condition than women, and some believe it to be heriditary. Toe nails can take up to a year to grow out. This is one of the main reasons this condition is so difficult to treat successfully, let alone cure.
When treating toenail fungus, one should change socks frequently and alternate between multiple pairs of shoes. Go barefoot whenever possible, because fungi cannot thrive in an oxygen rich environment.
Walking barefoot in public shows, pools, and other settings should be avoided at all costs. The microorganisms that cause nail fungus of the toes can be picked up in environments like this.
To prevent and successfully treat toe fungus, you should be very careful to protect the toes from any damage, tearing, or trauma. Many people initially contract fungal nail infections when they drop something on their foot, get an ingrown toenail, or cut skin while trimming nails.
