Which of the following is a common cause of nail fungus?

Excessive moisture is a common cause of nail fungus because fungi thrive in warm, damp environments. When nails are frequently exposed to moisture, such as from prolonged exposure to water or sweaty conditions, it can create an ideal breeding ground for fungal infections. Fungi can infiltrate the nails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and potentially painful infections. It’s important to keep nails dry and well-ventilated to minimize the risk of fungal growth.

While the other factors listed—frequent manicures, use of acrylic nails, and poor nutrition—can contribute to overall nail health, they are not direct causes of nail fungus as effectively as excessive moisture. Frequent manicures, if performed with unsanitary tools, could lead to infections; however, they don’t inherently create the moist conditions fungi need. Acrylic nails can also trap moisture underneath them, but they themselves are not a direct cause of fungal infections. Poor nutrition might weaken the nails, making them more susceptible to diseases, but it does not directly foster fungus like moisture does.