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Nail Problems
Barometers of Health
Toenails often serve as barometers of our
health; they are diagnostic tools providing the initial signal of
the presence or onset of systemic diseases. For example, the pitting
of nails and increased nail thickness can be manifestations of
psoriasis. Concavity—nails that are rounded inward instead of
outward—can foretell iron deficiency anemia. Some nail problems can
be conservatively treated with topical or oral medications while
others require partial or total removal of the nail. Any
discoloration or infection on or about the nail should be evaluated
by a podiatric physician.
Nail Ailments
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown nails, the most common nail impairment,
are nails whose corners or sides dig painfully into the soft tissue
of nail grooves, often leading to irritation, redness, and swelling.
Usually, toenails grow straight out. Sometimes, however, one or both
corners or sides curve and grow into the flesh. The big toe is
usually the victim of this condition but other toes can also become
affected.
Ingrown toenails may be caused by:
- Improperly trimmed nails (Trim them straight
across, not longer than the tip of the toes. Do not round off
corners. Use toenail clippers.)
- Heredity
- Shoe pressure; crowding of toes
- Repeated trauma to the feet from normal
activities
If you suspect an infection due to an ingrown
toenail, immerse the foot in a warm salt water soak, or a basin of
soapy water, then apply an antiseptic and bandage the area.
People with diabetes, peripheral
vascular disease, or other circulatory disorders must avoid any form
of self treatment and seek podiatric medical care as soon as
possible.
Other "do-it-yourself" treatments, including any
attempt to remove any part of an infected nail or the use of
over-the-counter medications, should be avoided. Nail problems
should be evaluated and treated by your podiatrist, who can diagnose
the ailment, and then prescribe medication or another appropriate
treatment.
A podiatrist will resect the ingrown portion of
the nail and may prescribe a topical or oral medication to treat the
infection. If ingrown nails are a chronic problem, your podiatrist
can perform a procedure to permanently prevent ingrown nails. The
corner of the nail that ingrows, along with the matrix or root of
that piece of nail, are removed by use of a chemical, a laser, or by
other methods.
Fungal Nails
Fungal infection of the nail, or onychomycosis,
is often ignored because the infection can be present for years
without causing any pain. The disease is characterized by a
progressive change in a toenail's quality and color, which is often
ugly and embarrassing.
In reality, the condition is an infection
underneath the surface of the nail caused by fungi. When the tiny
organisms take hold, the nail often becomes darker in color and foul
smelling. Debris may collect beneath the nail plate, white marks
frequently appear on the nail plate, and the infection is capable of
spreading to other toenails, the skin, or even the fingernails. If
ignored, the infection can spread and possibly impair one's ability
to work or even walk. This happens because the resulting thicker
nails are difficult to trim and make walking painful when wearing
shoes. Onychomycosis can also be accompanied by a secondary
bacterial or yeast infection in or about the nail plate.
Because it is difficult to avoid contact with
microscopic organisms like fungi, the toenails are especially
vulnerable around damp areas where people are likely to be walking
barefoot, such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers, for
example. Injury to the nail bed may make it more susceptible to all
types of infection, including fungal infection. Those who suffer
from chronic diseases, such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or
immune-deficiency conditions, are especially prone to fungal nails.
Other contributing factors may be a history of athlete's foot and
excessive perspiration. |
