Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. However, many individuals wonder if this condition can also affect their toenails. The answer is yes.
Athlete’s foot can lead to toenail infections, which can cause discomfort, discoloration, and thickened nails if left untreated.
Let us discuss how athlete’s foot can impact your toenails, the symptoms to watch for, and the most effective athlete’s foot treatments to help prevent complications.
What Is Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes. These fungi thrive in warm, damp environments, such as locker rooms, public showers, and swimming pools. It is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces.
The condition primarily affects the skin between the toes but can quickly spread to other areas of the foot and even to the toenails. Understanding the symptoms is the first step toward effective athlete’s foot management and treatment.
How Can Athlete’s Foot Spread to Your Toenails
Toenails can become infected when the fungi causing athlete’s foot spread onto the nail bed. This occurs when the skin around the toes remains untreated while exposed to excessive moisture or pressure (such as in tight-fitting shoes). Once the fungi infect the toenail, they begin to thrive underneath, where it is dark and protected.
This can lead to a fungal toenail infection, also called onychomycosis. These infections are harder to treat than athlete’s foot alone and may require specialized toenail treatments.
Symptoms of a Fungal Toenail Infection
Toenail infections caused by athlete’s foot can have distinct symptoms that are often different from those affecting the skin. Here are the symptoms to look out for:
- Discoloration: Toenails may turn yellow, brown, or white.
- Thickened Nails: Nails may become thicker than usual, making them difficult to trim.
- Brittle or Crumbly Texture: Nails may crack, split, or crumble more easily.
- Changes in Shape: The nail may become distorted or curved.
- Pain or Discomfort: Severe infections can lead to sensitivity or discomfort around the nail.
- Foul Odor: A mild smell may accompany the fungal infection.
If you notice these signs, seeking an athlete’s foot treatment early can prevent the infection from worsening.
Effective Treatments for Athlete’s Foot and Fungal Toenail Infection
Managing athlete’s foot is critical to avoid its spread to toenails. Here are some athlete’s foot treatments and prevention strategies:
Over-the-Counter Antifungals
Topical antifungal creams, sprays, or powders containing clotrimazole (Lotrimin) or terbinafine (Lamisil) are often effective. These treatments should be applied consistently to the affected foot area as directed.
Prescription Medications
For severe or persistent cases, a foot doctor may prescribe stronger antifungal treatments. Options include:
- Oral Antifungals: Medications like terbinafine (Lamisil) or itraconazole (Sporanox) are often used for fungal toenail infections.
- Topical Lacquer: Antifungal nail lacquers can be applied directly to the infected nail.
Toenail Removal
Severe toenail infections may require temporary or permanent nail removal for effective treatment. This is typically recommended only when other athlete’s foot treatments fail.
Good Hygiene Practices
Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial to prevent the recurrence of athlete’s foot and its spread to toenails:
- Wash and dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Use antifungal foot powders to keep feet dry.
- Wear breathable socks and change them daily.
- Avoid walking barefoot in communal areas like showers or pools.
Professional Treatment
If symptoms persist despite home care, consulting a podiatrist is essential. A specialist can recommend tailored athlete’s foot treatments and care plans for fungal toenail infections.
Preventing Athlete’s Foot and Related Toenail Issues
Prevention is key to managing athlete’s foot and protecting your toenails from infection. Follow these simple tips to lower your risk:
- Wear shower shoes in public areas.
- Use moisture-wicking socks and change them promptly if they become wet.
- Choose footwear that allows proper ventilation.
- Disinfect shoes regularly to eliminate fungal spores.
- Avoid sharing personal items like socks, shoes, or pedicure tools.
- Monitor your feet regularly for signs of infection and seek treatment early.
Athlete’s Foot Treatment in Warwick & Middletown, RI, and Dartmouth, MA
If left untreated, athlete’s foot and fungal toenail infections can worsen and cause significant discomfort. Fortunately, early detection and proper athlete’s foot treatment can help manage these conditions effectively.
If you are experiencing symptoms of athlete’s foot or fungal toenail infection, our expert team at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England is here to help. We have a team of highly experienced foot and ankle doctors who specialize in advanced athlete’s foot treatments and personalized care plans to keep your feet healthy and fungus-free.
For more information or to schedule your consultation, call our office nearest to you or use our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
