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Yes, toenail fungus can spread from your shoes to your toes, and from one toe to another. It can also spread to your other body parts. Toenail fungus generally occurs if you wear tight fitting shoes most of the time and don't let the skin breathe. Due to the tight fitting shoes there's a lot of pressure on the feet leading to heat and sweat. The sweat builds up and, supported by the warm and humid conditions, offers an excellent environment for the bacteria to breed. They multiply rapidly and thus cause a fungal infection. This infection also happens when the body's pH level is disturbed, or when you don't dry your feet after a bath or exercise. You have not mentioned how bad your infection is. Is it in the initial stage or is the problem severe? If it's the latter case then you should go and see a doctor. A medical examination will give you clear details of the severity of the problem and also a proper treatment. Some people have lost their toenails due to sheer neglect. So please do not wait to treat toenail fungus until it is too late.
For toe nail fungus prevention you should pay attention to what you eat. Have fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Drink enough water and fresh fruit juices. Do not eat processed and refined foods that are loaded with carbs and sugar. Increase your intake of probiotics, for example yogurt, as they help to control the growth of fungus and get rid of it.
Fungus is common in warm moist areas like gyms, locker rooms, spa and swimming areas. So if you're walking around with bare feet, then there are chances of you getting infected. Make sure you always wash your feet with an antiseptic soap and dry them thoroughly after you visit such places. Keep your personal belongings separate, and do not share your shoes, socks, towels, etc as this can increase the chances of infection. You should also stay away from artificial fabrics. Wear cotton socks. These will help to absorb the sweat better and hence keep your feet dry.
To clean your shoes: take a good shoe brush and clean the insides of your shoes. If your shoes are washable then wash them with soap and water. Give them a final rinse in an antiseptic solution. Sunlight totally kills the fungus, so you should finally dry them out in the sun.
Using vinegar for toe nail fungus and for your feet: Take a small tub and fill it with equal quantities of warm water and apple cider vinegar. Mix well and then soak your feet in it for 15 to 20 minutes. Dry your feet well. Do not scrub just pat dry.
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