Can itchy feet cause toenail fungus?
Disease description:
Many people around me have gotten onychomycosis (fungal nail infection). I've heard that their feet itched before diagnosis, and I suspect there might be a connection. Could foot itching lead to onychomycosis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wan
Yes, it's possible. Itchy feet are a sign of fungal infection, and some patients may also experience symptoms such as redness and peeling skin. If this infectious inflammation remains untreated or recurs frequently, fungal infection can easily spread to the nails, damaging the nail plate and leading to onychomycosis (fungal nail infection). Patients should avoid scratching their feet with their hands. While treating onychomycosis, it is advisable to simultaneously treat athlete's foot (tinea pedis) to eliminate the source of infection.
