From fungal infection to bacterial infection and skin condition, nails can become victims of a variety of issues that can occur at any age. A common affliction of nails can cause them to turn thick, brittle, and yellow and eventually detach from the nail bed. If you’ve noticed a concerning problem, it is best to seek help from a doctor or podiatrist so the cause can be identified promptly and treated accordingly.
Tiny openings in the skin can be portals for Trichophyton rubrum, a fungus found in soil, to enter and cause a variety of difficult-to-treat fungal nail infections. This is the most frequent type of nail issue and generally begins on the edge of the nail before spreading throughout. Treatment typically necessitates taking oral antifungal prescription medicines.
Although they are not as frequent as fungal infections, bacterial infections can still affect nails. Most commonly attributed to Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is prevalent in water, this bacteria can seep in through cracks and cuts on the skin. The infection generally starts at the bottom of the nail and expands towards the tip. Antibiotics may suffice to treat it but an additional dose of oral medications may be necessary.
Nail injuries might occur if they become caught and are pulled off forcefully— a process known as nail avulsion. This can cause immense pain and harm the nail bed, so if it happens, medical attention is essential. Without proper treatment, the situation might worsen and become more uncomfortable.
Changes to the nails may indicate a more serious underlying skin condition, such as psoriasis. This disorder is an ongoing affliction that prompts the body to produce an excessive amount of skin cells. These cells accumulate on the surface of the skin, and may also cause deformity and discoloration to the nails. The nails may become thick, breakable, and yellow in hue, or even detach from the nail bed. To prevent further deterioration of this kind, it is essential to seek medical assistance in order to treat any existing psoriasis.
Toenails or fingernails can be the source of distress in people of all ages – being afflicted with a nail condition isn’t uncommon. It is essential to seek medical advice so that the root cause can be uncovered as soon as possible and addressed with the right methods. Seeing a doctor or podiatrist is recommended in this case.