Out of all the complaints taken to dermatologists, many tend to be about nail problems. Some of these issues may be genetic, while others could develop because of certain traumas or illnesses. Majority of these troubles are not life-threatening, but some could signify more severe health issues.
If you’re attuned to physical changes in your body, it may be time to take a look at your nails. Even the slightest transformation can be used to diagnose underlying health conditions before other symptoms arise. It is, therefore, essential to be mindful and consult a dermatologist if any changes in your nails cause alarm.
A Number of Common Nail Disorders to Watch For
Dried-out fingers: An issue affecting many seniors, dried-out fingernails can occur due to insufficient hydration, contact with harsh chemicals, or medical concerns. Fortunately, supplying them with the moisture they lack can usually take care of this common conundrum. Applying creams or lotions may be the ticket to recovery.
Suffering from an ingrown nail can cause discomfort and, if left untreated, can worsen and even lead to infection. This issue is known to arise when a nail is cut too short or if it’s been trimmed with an uneven angle. Therefore, the primary approach for relief is to carefully reduce the length of said nail and maintain a clean, dry atmosphere around the affected area.
Possessing a yellowish intent, one’s nails can be indicative of smoking, the ingestion of particular substances, or a fungal disorder. If you’re desperate to restore the original shade, putting the cigarette down could be an appropriate start, alternatively, re-assessing your medications or fighting fungi with antifungal remedies may prove worthy solutions.
Small, harmless flecks of white tend to appear on the nails from time to time. This could stem from a blow to the nail or an imbalance of vitamins or minerals, such as a zinc deficiency.
In the event of split nails, one could be dealing with either trauma-induced damage, normal aging, or an underlying medical condition. To remedy this challenge and get the nails looking healthy once again, lotions are a go-to range of treatments – to nourish the nails. Additionally, preventative measures ought to be taken in order to steer clear of potential traumas that may cause splitting.
Over time, nails can gradually thicken due to age, direct injury, or underlying medical issues. Keeping nails trimmed and treating the skin beneath them with a quality lotion should help resolve the difficulty.
Those prone to nail fungus are all too familiar with the familiar effects of this vexing condition. Discoloration, thickening, and top-to-bottom brittleness are the typical symptoms, yet hope is not lost – simply use antifungal medications to regain healthy nails.
Those affected by paronychia- an infection of the skin around the nails- should take active steps for their recovery. This malady can typically be triggered by bacteria, fungi, or yeast as a catalyst – and there are several methods that one can undertake to treat it. Immersion of the area in warm water is often prescribed by doctors- yet one may also opts for antibiotics or anti-fungal medications.
Psoriasis is a long-standing affliction that can bewitch the nails with maladies such as thickness, furrowed surfaces, or discoloration. To gain relief, typically a medication regime is prescribed to reduce inflammation.
For those concerned about alterations in their nails, there is no need for cause for alarm; many nail issues are simply regular and can be managed. Visiting a dermatologist can help to identify and provide an effective treatment plan.