Nails are part of the integumentary system in humans. This system is responsible for acting as a protective barrier against the external environment. Apart from that, these protective plates can also signal deficiencies, infections, or even underlying medical conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed. Although nails are durable, that does not mean they are invincible. Nails are also susceptible to injuries, infections, and disorders. In this blog, we will be understanding nail disorders, their types, what causes them, and where to get nail disorder treatment in Gurgaon. 

Types of Nail Disorders

Nail disorders can be classified into several types. These types are mentioned below: 

Fungal Infections (Onychomycosis)

Fungal infection is one of the most common types of nail disorders. It often leads to discoloration, brittleness, and thickening of nails.  Now, nail fungal infection is typically caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or moulds.

Symptoms of fungal infection:

  1. Yellow, brown, or white discoloration of the nail
  2. Thickened nails that may become brittle or crumbly
  3. Nail lifting from the nail bed (onycholysis)
  4. A foul smell from the infected nail

Causes of fungal infection: 

  1. Your nails can be infected with fungus by swimming or walking barefoot in public spaces. 
  2. Weakened immune systems or poor hygiene can make individuals more susceptible.

Treatment of fungal infection: 

  1. Antifungal medications (oral or topical)
  2. Laser therapy for more stubborn fungal infections
  3. Regular cleaning and care of nails to reduce fungal exposure

Ingrown Nails (onychocryptosis)

An ingrown toenail can be referred to as a condition when the corner or edge of the nail grows into the skin, leading to pain, redness, and sometimes infection. It's most commonly seen on the big toe.

Symptoms Ingrown Nails

  1. Pain around the nail
  2. Redness 
  3. Swelling
  4. Infection, which can result in pus discharge

Causes of Ingrown Nails

  1. Improper nail trimming 
  2. Tight shoes or socks that exert pressure on the toes
  3. Injury to the toe or nail

Treatment of Ingrown Nails

  1. Soaking the foot in warm water to reduce swelling
  2. Antibiotics (in the case of infection)
  3. Surgical removal of part of the nail in severe cases

Psoriasis of the Nails

Nail psoriasis is a type of psoriasis that affects nails. It is an autoimmune condition in which skin cells start multiplying rapidly. 

Symptoms of Nail psoriasis

  1. Small pits or depressions on the nail surface
  2. Thickened nails
  3. Nail discoloration, often yellow or brown
  4. Separation of the nail from the nail bed

Causes of Nail psoriasis

  1. An overactive immune system that speeds up the growth of skin cells.
  2. Common in individuals with a history of psoriasis.

Treatment of Nail psoriasis

  1. Topical treatments. Examples are corticosteroids. 
  2. Oral or injectable medications for severe cases
  3. Laser therapy for a more targeted approach issue. 

Nail Dystrophy

Nail dystrophy can be defined as abnormal growth or development of nails, leading to thickening, discoloration, or malformation of nails. 

Symptoms of Nail Dystrophy

  1. Thickening of the nail.
  2. Ridging of the nail.
  3. Brittle nails that are more prone to breaking
  4. Nail detachment from the nail bed

Causes of Nail Dystrophy

  1. Trauma or injury to the nail matrix 
  2. Genetic factors or inherited conditions
  3. Certain medical conditions, like eczema or fungal infections

Treatment of Nail Dystrophy

  1. Topical steroids
  2. Antifungal medications
  3. Minor surgical interventions.

Beau's Lines

Beau's lines are referred to as horizontal grooves or indentations that appear across the nails. These lines usually appear after illness or trauma to the body.

Symptoms of Beau's Lines 

  1. Horizontal ridges or depressions across the nails
  2. The affected nails may appear to stop growing temporarily before resuming growth.

Causes of Beau's Lines 

  1. Severe illness or stress
  2. Malnutrition or vitamin deficiencies (especially zinc)
  3. Fever or systemic conditions like diabetes or heart disease

Treatment of Beau's Lines

  1. Treating the underlying cause (e.g., managing stress or improving nutrition) usually resolves the appearance of Beau's lines over time.
  2. In some cases, Beau's lines may disappear as the nail grows.

White Nails (Leukonychia)

Leukonychia or white nails, is a condition where nails appear to have white spots. Although this condition can be commonly seen as minor trauma to the nail, persistent whitening of the entire nail can sometimes signal a more serious health issue.

Symptoms of Nail Dystrophy

  1. The entire nail or parts of the nail appear white.
  2. Spots or lines may appear as a result of minor trauma.

Causes of Nail Dystrophy

  1. Minor injuries to the nail matrix. 
  2. In severe cases, it can be caused due to liver disease, kidney disease, or diabetes.

Treatment of Nail Dystrophy

  1. In most cases, the condition resolves itself once the trauma or illness heals.
  2. If associated with an underlying medical condition, managing that condition can restore nail health.

Get expert consultation for nail disorders from the best dermatologist in Gurgaon, Dr. Neha Sharma at Estique Clinic!

Nail disorders can be distressing and sometimes even painful, but many are treatable with the right care and medical intervention. By understanding the various types of nail disorders, their causes, and treatment options, you can take better care of your nails and prevent more serious conditions from developing. If you are struggling with any nail disorder and seeking the best dermatologist in Gurgaon for it, then consider Dr. Neha Sharma at Estique Skin and Hair Clinic. To know more, book an appointment today!

Original Source: https://medium.com/@estiqueclinic202/understanding-nail-disorders-types-causes-and-treatment-options-be3ef6912d33