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How do you get
toenail fungus infection?

Toenail fungus is often caused by two kinds of fungi: Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophyte. They like warm, moist environments—like closed shoes—and people commonly come into contact with them in public areas like gym locker room floors, shower rooms and swimming pools.

Your feet also don’t get as much blood flow as other parts of your body. This means that it’s harder for the immune system to fight off the fungi your feet are exposed to.

Learn more about what causes toenail fungus, how to prevent it, and how to treat it on our FAQ page.

Feet next to shower drain

ARE SOME PEOPLE MORE LIKELY TO GET TOENAIL FUNGUS INFECTION?

Anyone can get a toenail fungus infection, but some factors can increase your risk. Many of these are related to your lifestyle—if you’re active, you might often be in places where it is easier to pick up these fungi.

Genetic and health factors can also increase the risk of infection for people who:

  • are 55 years or older
  • have poor blood circulation
  • have a previous or current injury or infection of the nail
  • have athlete’s foot
  • have a weakened immune system (for example, due to HIV/AIDS or diabetes)
Preview of symptom checker tool Preview of symptom checker tool

Think you have
toenail fungus?

Use our tool to check your symptoms and see if you might have signs of toenail fungus. Be sure to visit a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and to find out which treatment is right for you.

Check if you have
the symptoms