Experts note that individuals with weakened immune systems, diabetes patients, the elderly, athletes, and those working in constantly wet environments are more prone to toenail fungus. In recent clinical practice, toenail fungus has also been frequently observed among long-distance truck drivers.
To prevent the spread of toenail fungus, feet should be washed daily and dried thoroughly, shared use of socks and slippers at home should be avoided, and nail care tools should not be shared with others, said Podiatrist Muharrem Tosun. “To prevent nail fungus, socks made from cotton, bamboo, or silver fiber should be worn. Additionally, shoes should be properly ventilated and the same pair should not be worn for long periods without a break,” he added.
Instructor Muharrem Tosun, from the Podiatry Program at Üsküdar University’s Vocational School of Health Services, shared valuable information on the causes, risk groups, treatment methods, and prevention of toenail fungus.
Dermatophytes are the main cause of nail fungus
Podiatrist Muharrem Tosun stated that nail fungus is most commonly caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes, with the most prevalent types being Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, which settle under the nail and cause infection.
Who is more at risk?
Tosun explained that individuals with weakened immune systems, diabetes, the elderly, athletes, and those working in moist environments (such as cleaning staff) are more susceptible to nail fungus. He also pointed out a newly observed risk group: “In recent clinical cases, we have frequently encountered nail fungus in long-distance drivers,” he said.
What are the treatment options?
Podiatrist Tosun noted that the most common treatment methods for toenail fungus include: Topical antifungal creams or lacquers, oral antifungal medications, laser therapy, Mechanical debridement using podiatric drills (burs). Tosun explained that “Podiatrists treat nail fungus by mechanically cleaning the affected area with burs and applying medical treatments. The goal is to remove the infected tissue and allow the remaining healthy nail to grow properly. A multidisciplinary approach involving physicians can significantly improve the success and speed of the treatment process.”
Hygiene rules are critically important
Tosun emphasized that nail fungus typically appears on the feet and outlined key hygiene measures to prevent its spread: Feet should be washed daily and dried thoroughly, especially between the toes. Avoid sharing socks or slippers at home. Never share nail clippers or grooming tools. Feet and hands should be washed regularly, and spending prolonged time in damp environments should be avoided. Nails should be trimmed hygienically, and podiatrists should be consulted when necessary. Socks made of cotton, bamboo, or silver fiber should be preferred. Shoes must be well ventilated, and the same pair should not be worn for several days in a row.
Be cautious in shared public spaces
To prevent nail fungus in public spaces such as saunas, gyms, and swimming pools, Tosun advised: Always use personal slippers. Thoroughly dry your feet after pool or sauna use. Choose hygienic environments. Avoid walking barefoot in communal showers.
Untreated nail fungus can lower quality of life
Tosun warned that if left untreated for a long time, nail fungus can significantly reduce quality of life: “Thickened nails caused by untreated infections can distort the nail bed, leading to nail deformities and ingrown toenails. This can cause pain in the toes, impair walking, and negatively impact social life. The unsightly appearance can also affect self-confidence. If the fungus spreads to the skin, it can cause itching between the toes and on the feet, further lowering quality of life.”
Treatment requires patience
Tosun explained that toenail fungus is more common on the feet because fungi thrive in dark, moist environments, and stressed the importance of keeping feet dry: “I would especially like to note that treating nail fungus is a long process requiring patience. In some cases, treatment may take up to 1 to 1.5 years. During this time, individuals must pay close attention to personal hygiene and strictly follow the guidance and instructions given by their doctors and podiatrists.”
Üsküdar News Agency (ÜNA)