What causes nail fungus?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 29, 2024
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Onychomycosis, also known as nail fungus, is an infection caused by pathogenic fungi in the nail plate or under the nail. This disease can infect fingernails as well as toenails. Besides the fundamental cause of pathogenic fungi, other common inducers include the environment, particularly damp environments, and contact with other individuals who have nail fungus, which can be spread to others through direct or indirect contact.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Is tinea unguium contagious?

Onychomycosis, commonly known as nail fungus, is a nail damage caused by fungal infections of the nail bed. This disease is highly contagious and recurrent; it can be transmitted through contact, such as sharing slippers, foot towels, or socks. The most commonly used treatment is oral antifungal medication. However, if liver function is abnormal and transaminase levels are high, it is advisable not to use oral medications. Topical medications can also be effective, but they require a longer time to work. Otherwise, it is difficult to completely cure the condition in the long term. After recovery, avoid sharing slippers, avoid public baths and swimming pools, and minimize contact with others to prevent cross-infection.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can tinea unguium be transmitted to others?

Nail fungus is contagious to others. Also known as onychomycosis or gray nails, it is caused by a fungal infection. The fungus can spread from person to person through the skin, both by direct and indirect contact, so it's crucial to completely cure nail fungus promptly, maintain good personal hygiene, avoid wearing tight shoes and socks, avoid sharing footwear, and keep the skin dry.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can people with onychomycosis eat pork?

Onychomycosis, commonly known as nail fungus, is damage to the nails caused by a fungal infection of the nail bed. Eating pork has no effect on this condition. However, during treatment, it is advised to avoid spicy and stimulating foods, and to limit the consumption of lamb and seafood. This disease is highly contagious and recurrent. It is recommended to seek timely treatment. Oral antifungal medications can be used, but if liver function is abnormal and transaminase levels are high, topical medications are advised. Topical treatments work more slowly, but consistent long-term use can completely cure the condition. After recovery, it's important to maintain proper dietary and lifestyle habits, avoid wearing shared slippers, and stay away from public baths and swimming pools to prevent cross-infection and recurrence.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Does tinea unguium affect pregnancy?

When a pregnant woman suffers from onychomycosis, it generally does not have adverse effects on the fetus. However, when treating onychomycosis with medications, some drugs, especially antifungal drugs, can have a significant impact on the growth and development of the fetus. For pregnant women, onychomycosis mainly causes transmission and infection, and affects the appearance of the nails. In early pregnancy, it is generally not recommended to start treatment with medications. If treatment with medications is necessary, it must be done under the guidance of a doctor, and drugs that do not affect the fetus should be chosen. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is onychomycosis the same as nail fungus?

Onychomycosis, also known as tinea unguium, refers to the same condition, which is a disease caused by fungal infection of the nails. Once affected by onychomycosis or tinea unguium, the nails may thicken, turn yellow, flake irregularly, and become deformed. If tested in a hospital, the fungus may test positive. Therefore, after contracting onychomycosis or tinea unguium, it is crucial to maintain personal hygiene, cut off sources of infection, and ensure that used items are disinfected.