Learn more about how contagious a toenail fungus can be, including 5 ways that it can be spread to others.
So, you’re wondering if toenail fungus is contagious? The short answer is: definitely.
But, why is it contagious? And what are some ways you can catch this pesky fungus?
In this article, we’ll answer these questions, plus offer some easy and effective ways to kill off toenail fungus.
A fungal infection is caused by an overgrowth of many different types of fungi (yeasts or molds). In warm and moist environments, the fungi can thrive and quickly overpopulate.
A toenail fungus infection might cause:
The fungus is contagious and may spread to the skin between the toes and other parts of the foot. This is commonly known as athlete’s foot.
Fungal infections can also happen in your groin area (jock itch) and on your scalp.
Dermatophytes, belonging to the mold group of fungi, are the most common culprits for toenail fungal infections.
An infection can happen because of small tears in the skin or the toenail which causes a vulnerability where these fungi can enter and set up shop, so to speak.
Nail fungus infections can affect the fingernails but it’s most commonly seen in toenails. This is likely because of the warm, and moist conditions of closed-toed shoes.
Learn More: How To Tell If Your Toenail Fungus Is Dying Off: 4 Signs
Yes. Toenail fungus is both very contagious, and hard to treat.
The fungus responsible for toenail fungus infections is easily spread through direct or indirect contact.
Studies have shown that toenail fungus and athlete’s foot can spread among family members in close proximity.
Because it’s so contagious, toenail fungus infections are also very common. Experts estimate that 1 in 10 people have toenail fungus.
Ever been to a gym locker room and seen folks showering with sandals on?
Well, you should really follow suit, because there could be a whole host of contagious little fungi hanging out on the moist public shower floor.
Also Read: How To Get Rid of Toenail Fungus: 6 Tips To Help Keep Toes Clean and Clear
Toenail fungus is notoriously difficult to treat.
In order to be rid of the fungus, you’ll need the nail to fully grow out while treating it. And, nails grow slowly, so change can take time.
A fungus is not like a bacteria that can be washed away with some soap and water, or treated with antibiotics. A fungus infection will require an antifungal treatment and the growth of new healthy toenails.
1. Ketoconazole and Terbinafine are both antifungal medications used to treat fungal infections of the scalp, groin, feet, fingernails, and toenails.
Strut Health uses both Ketoconazole and Terbinafine in our Strut Nail Formula.
With our prescription-only compound formula, these antifungal medications can penetrate deep into the nail.
To see if this antifungal treatment is right for you, simply complete a questionnaire-based online doctor's consultation.
If our doctors find it’s the right treatment for you, we’ll ship it right to your door.
2. Antifungal (clear) nail polishes normally contain the ingredients like amorolfine or ciclopirox which stop the growth of the fungus.
3. Oral antifungal medications like terbinafine, itraconazole, fluconazole may help, although these medications are not for everyone.
Yes, toenail fungus is contagious.
Toenail fungus can spread from person to person via direct or indirect contact. It can be contracted from shared infected surfaces. Remember, fungi like to hang out in dark, warm, and moist places.
Toenail fungus is incredibly common, so it’s best to use preventative measures to keep from catching these common fungi.
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