common nail problems pictures

The appearance and condition of our nails can sometimes tell us a lot more than their aesthetic value. Abnormalities may reveal underlying health issues, including skin disorders, infections, and more. To ensure our nail health and visual appearance is maintained, it’s important to identify when changes occur. We’ve compiled a list of common nail problems with accompanying pictures, to help you identify them at an early stage.

The Affliction of Yellow Nails

Thick, yellowed nails that lack the ability to grow are the defining features of Yellow Nail Syndrome. In more extreme cases, the nails can become curved, shifting away from their usual shape and even detaching from the nail bed. While the exact cause is unknown, it is theorized that long-term ailments like sinus inflammation, lymphedema, and other kinds of lung diseases may be linked; some have also attributed it to fingernail fungus and lacquer-based products.

A nail bed’s separation from the nail plate, known as onycholysis, results in the empty gap that forms between them. This could be caused by an injury, an infection, chemicals making contact with the nail bed, or even an allergic reaction. When this happens, it’s very common to observe that the nail looks white or hazy, and could even cause discoloration.

Nail psoriasis is a perplexing skin situation that causes abnormalities to spread across the toes and fingers. Patients may experience little knobbles, furrows, drabness, and their nails may detach from the nail bed. In extreme cases, nails may thicken and even disintegrate. Although the exact trigger of nail psoriasis is yet to be understood, it is suspected to have an autoimmune temper to it.

Sharp and painful, ingrown nails occur when the nail penetrates the flesh and attempts to grow into the skin. This can occur from trimming the nail too short or the relentless pressure of tight clothing on the nail bed, leaving it red and swollen. In some cases, if left untreated for too long, this condition can develop into an infection.

Fragile nails become damaged quickly due to a variety of causes, such as aridity, age, contact with harsh substances, and other illnesses. A diagnosis of brittle nails is marked by feeble nails that look dehydrated and fragile with cracks, plus you can sometimes see the nail bed through the nails.

Paying attention to the condition of your nails is essential for overall wellbeing. This article provides images to make identifying any nail issues simple, and outlines a few common problems. If anything feels off or out of the ordinary regarding your nails, consult with a doctor for advice. Furthermore, a few habits like keeping your nails hygienic, staying well-hydrated, and staying away from harsh substances can help keep them vibrant and healthy.

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