Do you bite your nails? Why do doctors examine your nails every time to complain about any health issue? Does the state of your nails reveal your overall health? Even though I had no prior knowledge of all of these before, my jaw dropped as I learned more about them. There are numerous aspects of nails that we overlook, so allow me to enlighten you on nail problems.
Do you realize how accidental injuries, our regular manicures, dietary habits, and people’s physical and emotional states contribute to the poor health of nails?
Check out these common nail disorders you must need to take care of:
1. Psoriasis:
Psoriasis of the nails is an autoimmune disease produced by autoimmune processes in which the immune system misidentifies normal tissue as hazardous and attacks it.
Symptoms:
Blood spots, rough nails, Discolored nails, Nail bed separation, Pitting.
Treatment:
Dermatologists usually suggest going with topical medications. So, you can consider ointments, emulsions, creams, Corticosteroid injections, Vitamin A, D, Phototherapy, and Oral and systemic drugs.
2. Brittle nails:
Brittle nails are caused by a lack of or insufficient amount of moisture, hypothyroidism, and iron deficiency. Other significant reasons are excessive washing, repeated exposure to cleansers, nail paint removers, and home cleaners.
Symptoms:
Nail discoloration, weak nails, deformed nail growth.
Treatment:
Limit manicures, stay hydrated, and eat healthily. Use a lanolin-rich moisturizer, protect your nails while washing, and doing domestic tasks.
3. Yellow nail syndrome:
It’s a rare disorder. The accumulation of protein-rich fluid causes lymphoedema and deformities in the fingers and toenails and damages the respiratory tract.
Symptoms:
Yellow nails, thick and curved nails, loss of cuticle, nails loss, stopped nail growth.
Treatment:
Vitamin E, antifungal medicines, antibiotics, corticosteroids, and diuretics are some options in the treatment.
4. Onycholysis:
Injury, contact irritants, nail-care chemicals, psoriasis, and fungal infections are all causes of onycholysis.
Symptoms:
Nail discoloration, nail pitting, thickening, separation from the nail bed, and bending of the nails.
Treatment:
- Remove the infected area and snip your nails regularly.
- Monitor activities that cause trauma to the nails.
- Stay away from irritants.
- Use essential oils.
- Keep a close eye on your vitamin consumption.
5. Beau lines:
Beau lines are horizontal grooves that run across the nails. These are caused by zinc deficiency, high blood sugar, vascular disease, and some fevers like measles, mumps, scarlet fever, and pneumonia.
Symptoms:
Restricted nail growth, horizontal lines, mild yellow discoloration, soreness at fingertips.
Treatment:
Make sure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet. Using hand creams and massaging regularly will assist. In addition, take multivitamin supplements, apply mild antiseptics to the affected area, and avoid using nail polish removers excessively.
6. Fungal infections:
Various fungal yeasts or molds cause fungal nail infections. In addition, bacteria and germs can enter the nails through cracks and injuries, resulting in infection. Fungal infection is more likely in people who have diabetes or have weakened immune systems.
Never bite your nails since they are contaminated with bacteria, fungi, and germs.
Symptoms:
Foul odor, inflammation, brittle nails, whitish or yellow discoloration, distorted shape, separation of the nail plate from its bed, and pitting at the surface.
Treatment:
- Use antifungal sprays and powders on the damaged nails.
- Regular trimming, care, medicated nail paint and lotions, moisture-wicking socks, and avoiding over-manicuring and pedicuring are all things to consider.
- If you notice any signs, get your tests and fungal nail treatment done early as possible.
Strategies for healthy nails:
- Take care of your personal hygiene.
- Reduce the number of chemicals you use on your nails.
- When doing domestic chores, wear gloves and other protective gear.
- Keep a keen watch on your nutritional intake.
- Moisturize, trim, and massage your nails regularly.
- Avoid sharing towels, shoes, and other finger accessories to avoid fungal infections.
- Only have your manicure and pedicure done by individuals you trust.
Conclusion:
Nail problems are not well-known among the general public. If not addressed promptly, nail problems can progress to various other illnesses. The nails often indicate various underlying diseases and health conditions, so it is important to understand these warnings. I hope now you know how to prevent yourself from most nail disorders.
