How can gray nail (onychomycosis) be completely cured?
Gray nail is usually caused by onychomycosis. There is no concept of a complete cure without onychomycosis. Generally, onychomycosis may be related to poor personal hygiene, low immunity, malnutrition, trauma, paronychia, and other factors. Patients can alleviate symptoms by keeping feet clean and dry, maintaining a balanced diet, undergoing drug treatment, and following other recommendations. It is advised that patients promptly visit a hospital and follow medical guidance for treatment. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Poor personal hygiene: Poor personal hygiene habits, such as wearing tight shoes for extended periods, non-breathable socks, and infrequent sock changes, can leave feet in a damp, hot environment, providing favorable conditions for fungal growth and increasing the risk of infection. Maintain clean and dry feet, choose breathable shoes and socks, and replace shoes and socks regularly.
2. Low immunity: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly, diabetes patients, and HIV/AIDS patients, are more susceptible to fungal infections due to weaker physical resistance, which may lead to onychomycosis. Enhance immunity through balanced nutrition, moderate exercise, and sufficient sleep, while actively treating underlying diseases.
3. Malnutrition: Deficiencies in vitamins or minerals, such as vitamin B, calcium, and zinc, can lead to poor nail growth, making onychomycosis more likely. Adjust your diet to increase intake of foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vegetables, fruits, and meats.
4. Trauma: Nail injuries caused by external forces, such as compression or impact, can damage the nail, making it prone to fungal infection, potentially accompanied by nail pain, swelling, bleeding, or bruising. Patients should use medications such as ketoconazole cream, erythromycin ointment, and neomycin ointment as directed by a physician to aid recovery.
5. Paronychia: Infection or inflammation of the skin around the nail can hinder nail growth, making it susceptible to fungal infection and causing onychomycosis. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and pain around the nail, sometimes accompanied by pus discharge. It is recommended that patients use medications such as fusidic acid cream, miconazole nitrate cream, and minocycline hydrochloride capsules under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.
In daily life, it is important to protect the nails and avoid physical impacts or compression. When engaging in manual labor or sports, wear gloves or other protective equipment. Additionally, avoid sharing slippers, foot basins, or towels with others to reduce the risk of infection.