Nails may appear discolored and become tender upon touch, while also serving as an indicator of health issues. Such circumstances can be the result of several maladies, such as fungal nail infections, ingrown nails, and psoriasis of the nails.
Onychomycosis, better known as ‘nail fungus’, is a pesky condition that affects countless people. Those with diabetes or immunocompromised systems are especially vulnerable to this infection, which causes thickening, discoloration, and eventual detachment of the nail from the bed. Thankfully, there are antifungal medications available which can treat the condition.
When the edges of the nails curl down and grow into the skin, an ingrown nail appears – resulting in oftentimes sharp pain, reddened flesh, and swollen toes. There are increased chances of ingrown nails for those with diabetes or lessened blood flow, but even healthy individuals can find themselves affected. To address ingrown nails, one should firstly immerse the area in warm water, then carefully trim away the nail’s edges.
Thicker, yellowish nails can be indicative of nail psoriasis, an ongoing health issue that often appears in those with a family background of the disease. Treatments to manage the condition involve topical corticosteroids and innovative light therapies.