What causes nail fungus?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 29, 2024
00:00
00:00

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.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
30sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
37sec home-news-image

Are tinea unguium and onychomycosis the same?

Tinea unguium and onychomycosis are the same, these two are exactly the same disease, with no differences, only that their names are different. Tinea unguium is more commonly used in clinical diagnosis, while onychomycosis is a common term used by the public. If you have tinea unguium, also known as onychomycosis, it is crucial to actively seek treatment to completely cure it, because this disease is contagious. If not treated promptly, it can easily spread from person to person. Always pay attention to hygiene and cleanliness.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
48sec home-news-image

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.)

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
1min 1sec home-news-image

How is onychomycosis treated?

Onychomycosis, commonly known as nail fungus, is a nail damage caused by a fungal infection of the nail bed. Currently, the most effective treatment is oral antifungal medications. These medications are quite effective but can have an impact on liver function. They should only be used by individuals who are healthy and have normal liver function. If liver function is abnormal or if transaminase levels are high, these oral medications should not be used to treat onychomycosis. Topical medications can also be used, although they work more slowly and require long-term commitment to treatment. It is advisable to visit a dermatologist at a reputable hospital for diagnosis and medication recommendations. During treatment, it is important to maintain proper personal hygiene as this condition is contagious. Avoid sharing footwear, and refrain from visiting public baths and swimming pools. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician and do not self-medicate.)

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
44sec home-news-image

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.