Most changes to the fingernails and toenails are harmless and superficial. There is often an insignificant deficiency. They usually disappear by themselves. Other abnormalities, however, require clarification. A common nail disease that does not disappear on its own is nail fungus. If in doubt, consult a dermatologist. They specialize in nail diseases.
You can find further information and selected specialists for nail diseases here.
Diseases or disorders of the fingernails or toenails can occur at any age. Common symptoms of nail diseases include
Not only the nail plate itself, but also the nail bed or the skin area around the nail can be affected.
A healthy nail is smooth, has a white-looking crescent and is otherwise free of spots. An unhealthy nail often has a different color, curves or crumbles.
It is usually not possible for the layperson to recognize the problem with the naked eye. A dermatologist (skin doctor) is the person to contact for nail diseases.
Healthy nails are smooth and stable. If they show discoloration or deformation, a nail disease may be present © dina_shuba | AdobeStock
Nail fungus (medical term: onychomycosis) is a fungal infection and is one of the most common diseases of the nails. It regularly affects not only the nails on the fingers or feet, but also the skin(skin fungus).
At the beginning of the nail fungus infection, the nail shows individual small yellowish spots. If left untreated, it becomes brittle and lifts away from the nail bed. A thickening of the nail plate also occurs as the infection progresses.
In nailpsoriasis, the nails have spots that resemble oil stains. The color of the nail is yellowish, the nail structure is crumbly, and without treatment the nail peels off. Overall, the nail is highly keratinized and the appearance is very similar to nail fungus. In the advanced stage, considerable pain is possible.
Nail discoloration is yellow, grey or brown. In addition, longitudinal and transverse stripes are typical symptoms of nail diseases. Severe thickening is known as watch glass nails. Dented nail surfaces are caused by a so-called spoon nail. Other typical changes to the nails are longitudinal grooves and transverse grooves.
The symptoms mentioned are often an expression of a deficiency or a specific disease.
Around 50 percent of all nail diseases have their origin in an infection. Fungal infections in particular are often associated with a general weakening of the immune system.
The following have an increased risk of nail diseases
Environmental factors can also favor an infection. In the case of fungi in particular, this is typically an environment with a warm and humid climate. This provides ideal growth conditions for fungi. This includes swimming pools, but also saunas and gyms. You should therefore not walk barefoot in these places, but always wear (bathing) shoes.
Injuries are also a cause of nail diseases. Bruising and other damage to the nail bed and nail plate occur regularly.
If necessary, consult a dermatologist after an injury. Without medical intervention, this could otherwise lead to a secondary disease. A nail deformation, for example, is possible, which may require the nail to be removed.
The examination by a specialist for nail diseases depends on the type and extent of the nail damage. If the trigger is unknown, there are various diagnostic options.
The most important form of examination is dermoscopy. During this painless microscopic examination, the doctor can look into the deeper layers of the nail using a reflected light microscope. In this way, damage that would not be visible to the naked eye can be detected.
If necessary, a mycological examination follows (mycology = the science of fungi). The doctor takes a tissue sample from the nail and creates a fungal culture. This provides information about the type of nail fungus.
It is also possible to carry out laboratory diagnostic tests. This can also determine whether the nail symptoms occur against the background of medication. Some cancer therapies can have nail disorders as a side effect.
The treatment of nail diseases on the hand or foot depends largely on the cause of the disease. If the symptoms are part of another illness, a referral to the appropriate specialist will be made if necessary.
Various treatment options are available for the treatment of fungal infections. The doctor uses antimycotics, i.e. antifungal agents. These can inhibit the growth of the fungus so that it is shed together with dead skin cells after some time. Other active ingredients kill the fungus directly. In most cases, you can apply the medication to the affected areas yourself like a nail polish.
In many cases, additional laser therapy is possible, which may only be carried out by a specialist. Medicinal creams and ointments, which are applied regularly, are also part of nail treatment.
In very severe cases, local treatment is not sufficient. Systemic therapy is then necessary. You will usually be given tablets for this. The active ingredients contained in the tablets combat the fungus throughout the body, not just on the surface of the nail.
Detailed information is required, as side effects are possible.
Nail diseases usually prove to be very stubborn. It can take many months before visible results are seen. This is particularly true of nail fungus and psoriasis. You therefore need patience and discipline when using the medication. For example, you must never stop treatment prematurely. If you do, there is a risk that the pathogen will cause the disease again.
The course depends on the exact cause of the illness.
Diseases of the nails can be traced back to various causes, which are often harmless. However, some abnormalities require treatment. The sooner you start treatment with your dermatologist, the better the chances of recovery.
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