Causes of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus can be caused by a number of different types of fungus. Read on to find out
what causes toenail fungus:
There are a number of different types of fungus that can cause a fungal toenail. The infection can be due to a dermaphyte - this is the collective name for three types of fungi, one of which (Tricophyton rubrum) is perhaps the most common cause of a fungal toenail. Other fungi that cause toenail fungal infections include yeast (Candida) and certain types of mould.
The fungus is often present in public places such as pools, locker rooms, public showers and hotel rooms, therefore exposure to these areas can lead to an increased risk of contracting the infection. The fungus is able to get under the toenail in a variety of ways, sometimes through a small cut around the nail.
Other causes can include ill-fitting shoes that can induce an ingrown toenail, leading to an inlet for the fungus. Cutting toenails improperly as well as regular, prolonged exposure to water can also be attributed to causing toenail fungus.
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