NAIL PROBLEMS

Overview and Facts

Nail problems are not generally caused by something severe. Fragile, weak nails which may alter coloration or form are frequent nail issues. Nails can grow innocuous straight ridges running from the cuticles to the end of the nails, where vertical cliffs become more visible with maturity. Moreover, nails could also acquire white lines or patches due to damage, although they fade with the nail.

Nail problems can occasionally be a sign of a severe or long-term ailment, like psoriasis of the nails, anemia due to iron deficiency, thyroid that is either underactive or hyperactive, diabetes, and heart, lungs, or liver disease.

Types and Symptoms

SYMPTOMS

Specific changes in your nails are caused by medical issues that have to be addressed. If you have any of the following symptoms, see your doctor:

  • Nail discoloration
  • Nail shape changes
  • Nail thickness changes
  • Pitted nails
  • Brittle nails
  • Redness or swelling around nails
  • Pain around the nails

A range of illnesses, including those listed above, might cause these changes in your nails.

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

A doctor evaluates any unusual modification in your nails through a physical exam. If the source of your nail condition is not apparent, your physician may remove nail clippings and scrapings underneath the nail for a lab test.

TREATMENT

Treatments that are effective vary based on the cause and could include:

  • Antibiotics. These are used to control bacterial illnesses.
  • Antifungal medications. These are used for fungal diseases in the nails.

Tips On Proper Nail Care

Among the methods for reducing the chances of nail disorders are:

  • Maintain proper hygiene.
  • When doing wet work, such as dishwashing, put on safety gloves.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals like powerful laundry detergents.
  • Avoid or minimize your toxic compounds, such as hair dyes.
  • Use caution when applying nail varnish.
  • Don’t wash under your nails too frequently or too vigorously.
  • Avoid pushing back the cuticles when granting oneself a nail art at home.
  • Instead of biting or tearing off ingrown nails, use nail clippers.
  • Avoid biting your nails.
  • Remove fake nails with care and follow the package recommendations.
  • Hydrate your hands regularly, especially after cleaning them.
  • Ensure to massage the moisturizer into your nails and cuticles as well.
  • Any eczema on your hands should be treated as soon as possible.

Related Articles

TETRALOGY OF FALLOT

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart defect that affects the [...]

TRICHINOSIS

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trichinosis, also known as trichinellosis, is a parasitic infection caused by [...]

TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological condition characterized by severe facial pain. [...]