Getting toenail fungus can be painful and embarrassing, especially if you love wearing sandals and other open-toed shoes. Some people are more prone to getting toenail fungus than others. There are certain causes of toenail fungus and if you know what these are, you may be able to reduce your chances of developing this infection.

First, you should know that anyone can contract toenail fungus. It spreads quickly and easily. If you spend a lot of time in warm, steamy places such as the gym shower or locker room or in an indoor pool area, then you can bet that you are a target for this type of fungus. This is because toenail fungus thrives on wet and warm areas and there is little to stop the fungus from developing in these areas.  You can take steps to avoid nail fungus when you frequent these areas by wearing locker room sandals or shoes and making sure you disinfect and wash your own footwear.

In addition to the gym locker room, you also have to be very careful about saunas, spas and nail salons. If you love getting your weekly manicure or pedicure, the best thing you can do to prevent toenail fungus (or even fungus on the fingernails) is to make sure that the salon you use is doing everything they can to prevent the spread of this bothersome infection. You have probably heard stories about people developing unsightly fungus on the nails after a visit the salon. This can happen if you are not careful.

There are also people who are more prone to developing nail fungus. Those with a depressed immune system as well as smokers and senior citizens often find that they can get this fungus faster than anyone else. If you fall under this category, then you need to do all you can to protect yourself.