Nail’s Health & Some Common Problems

There are a variety of typical nail problems that people face, some of which can be treated at home. More serious issues should be discussed with a doctor, as they may necessitate surgery.

A person with strong nails will notice the following characteristics.

1. size and shape are consistent
2.  lustrous and silky look
3. The pink nail bed is the skin underneath the nail.
4. The little half-moon shape at the base of the nail is called a white lunula.
5. The white nail-free margin is the portion of the nail that extends beyond the fingertip.

Common Problems of nails are:

Nail Psoriasis:

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, about half of all persons who have psoriasis also have nail psoriasis. Nail psoriasis can affect the fingernails or toenails of a person.

The following are some of the signs and symptoms of nail psoriasis:

• Nail pitting is a condition in which the nail develops microscopic dents.

• Discoloration that is white, yellow, or brown.

• Brittle nails

• Detachment of a finger or toe’s nail from its respective finger or toe

• Beneath the nail, there is blood

• Thickening of the nails

Onychoschizia

It is the medical term for nails that are brittle, splitting, soft, or thin. Onychoschizia is a common nail problem and is more likely to occur in females than in males.

This can occur due to:

• repeated wetting and drying of nails
• low humidity
• frequent use of nail polish and nail polish remover
• extended contact with detergent or cleaning products
• aging
• deficiencies of iron, zinc, or selenium

Ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the nail starts to grow into the skin of the toe.

Causes of ingrown toenails include:

• cutting toenails too short or at angles
• wearing shoes that are too small
• experiencing nail trauma
• having a family history of ingrown toenails
• having fungal infections

Fungal Infection:

When fungus enters a person’s nail, generally through a small crack, it causes fungal infection. Toenail infections are more probable than fingernail infections to be caused by fungus.

Fungal nail infections can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Diabetes, a weakened immune system, circulatory issues, and athlete’s foot.

Subungal Hematoma

A subungual hematoma is a bruise that appears underneath the nail. Injuring the nail, such as by stubbing a toe or wearing shoes that are too tight, can cause subungual hematomas.

• A person with a subungual hematoma may notice:

• pain and tenderness in the nail

• lifting of the nail

• Spots of purple, red, brown, or black on the nail

All these nail problems are so common. If you are facing them please consult your doctor.