Is tinea unguium contagious?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on September 28, 2024
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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 Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can athlete's foot be soaked in white vinegar?

Onychomycosis is a type of nail damage that occurs after a fungal infection of the nail bed, commonly known as athlete's foot. Once infected, if untreated, the nail will gradually deteriorate and may even be contagious and recurrent. Soaking in white vinegar does not effectively treat the condition; while it may suppress the fungus to some degree, it cannot completely cure athlete's foot. Currently, the most effective treatment for this disease is oral antifungal medication. Oral antifungal medications require normal liver function; if liver function is abnormal and transaminase levels are high, oral medications should not be taken. It is recommended to use topical medications to treat athlete's foot. Although the effect is slower, complete recovery is possible with long-term persistence. During treatment, avoid wearing sandals carelessly, and stay away from public baths and swimming to prevent cross-infection. (Use of medication should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What causes nail fungus?

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 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 Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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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.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Clinical symptoms of onychomycosis

Onychomycosis is a skin disease caused by fungal infections, presenting various clinical symptoms. It may manifest as spots on the nails that gradually increase in size and number. It could also appear as yellowing and dirty nails, which over time, slowly thicken. Additionally, symptoms could include nail defects and scaling, where the scales and nail fragments are easily shed. If these symptoms occur, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.