Nail Fungus
- Our nails often reflect our general state of health. Changes in the nail, such as discoloration or thickening, can signal health problems, including liver and kidney disease, heart and lung conditions, anemia, and diabetes.
- Symptoms that could signal nail problems include changes in color, shape and/or thickness, swelling of the skin around the nails, bleeding or discharge, and pain.
Nail problems
- Nail problems make up about 10 percent of all dermatologic conditions.2
- Nail problems usually increase throughout life and affect a high number of senior citizens.3
- Fungal infections cause about half of all nail disorders.4 They are more common in toenails because the toes are confined in a warm, moist, weight-bearing environment.
- Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, can grow under the nail in rare cases. Such melanomas may be mistaken for injuries, so a dermatologist should be consulted if a dark-colored streak appears within the nail plate, if the nail discoloration does not gradually improve or if the size of the streak increases over time.5
Other common nail problems include:
- White spots after an injury to the nail.
- Vertical lines, known as splinter hemorrhages, under the nails caused by nail injury or certain drugs and diseases.
- Bacterial infections, most often due to injury, poor skin hygiene, nail biting, finger sucking or frequent exposure to water.
- Ingrown toenails, caused by improper nail trimming, poor stance, digestive problems or tight shoes.
- Do not try to self-treat ingrown toenails, especially if they are infected.
- Nail problems are more common in those with diabetes or poor circulation.
Treatment/Solutions for Nail Fungus
If you experience itching, burning or any type of allergic reaction to a nail cosmetic, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Holy