What Your Fingernails Say About Your Health
Not all nail beds are the exact same. Everyone is different in regards to HOW they grow out and WHY. Sometimes the issue can be cosmetic and other times its internal. Here's some basic understanding about your nail health and the most common nail disorders.
Nail Psoriasis
Psoriasis can cause many nail changes, including tiny dents, discoloration, and crumbling nails. Like Psoriasis, there is no cure but managing it with patient counseling and avoiding stress and strain of nails are a few steps
Brittle, Splitting nails or Onychoshizia
Onychoschizia is a term that encompasses many nail problems, including splitting, brittleness, softness or thinness. This disorder can easily be treated through self-care such as keeping hydrated, reduce exposure of harsh chemicals and water, and using hand cream to keep hands moisturized.
Onychogryphosis
Also known as ram's horn nail, causes the nail to be thickened, discolored, curved and slows down nail plate-growth. To treat, mechanical debridement is done take the thickness down.
Ingrown toenails/hang nails
Having an ingrown toenail is common and can be painful. It involves a corner of the nail growing into the skin. For treatment, please see a medical professional, such as a Podiatrist.
Nail Fungal Infection
A fungal nail infection causes nails to become thick, discolored, and brittle. There are over the counter treatments you can find or seek a professional's opinion for treatment.
Onycholysis
Onycholysis is a common issue that involves the nail coming away from the nail bed. Causes of this can be from blunt force trauma resulting in blood bruises. Recomended treatment would be to remove the damaged nail completely or wait for it to grow out.
Paronychia
Paronychia is a skin infection that happens around a nail due to unsanitary tools or products. Seek medical advice for treatment.
Leukonychia
Leukonychia is a harmless condition that involves white lines or spots appearing on a nail after trauma to it.
