Nail Diseases

What causes nail diseases?

The phrase “nail disease” is a comprehensive term for a wide variety of abnormalities that affect your nails. Common causes of nail diseases are described below.

Ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails develop gradually as your toenail grows into your skin — rather than over it — with each passing day. This irritates your nail bed tissue and can lead to infection. Usually, ingrown toenails occur because you cut your nails too short, although they can also develop due to injury or inherited overly curved nails.

Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis, more commonly known as fungal nails, develop when a fungal invader enters your nail bed. This fungal infection can occur when you walk barefoot in damp communal areas, like gym locker rooms or saunas.

Onycholysis

Onycholysis is a condition that causes your nail to separate from the nail bed. It usually starts at the tip or on the sides. Onycholysis can occur because of trauma or psoriasis, or for an unknown reason (idiopathic).

Bacterial infections

Bacterial infections typically progress in the folds of the skin around your nails. Nail-damaging bacteria can enter your skin through a tiny cut or wound or because you shared socks or shoes with someone who has a foot infection.

Mucinous cysts

Mucinous cysts, tiny liquid-filled papules, form at the base of your nail. These nail cysts can be caused by trauma or injury, or because of a degenerative condition, such as arthritis.

Psoriatic nails

Psoriatic nails are a side effect of psoriasis. Medical experts estimate that up to 50% of psoriasis sufferers develop psoriatic nails, which can lead to pitting, rippling, and nail discoloration.

Skin cancer

Skin cancer, including life-threatening melanoma, can develop underneath your nail. These abnormal growths can form because of a family history of skin cancer, sun exposure, or a weakened immune system.

When should I see a dermatologist for a nail disease?

Because so many types of nail diseases exist and they can be difficult and even painful to treat on your own, schedule an exam at Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh if you experience any abnormalities in your nails. It’s important to have your nails evaluated right away if they’re:

• Changing colors, like turning yellow
• Causing burning or stabbing pains
• Associated with numbness
• Becoming brittle or thick
• Oozing pus

Some nail diseases, like fungal nails, can spread from your toenails to your fingernails if left untreated. Because your nail disease can continue to progress or even spread, don’t hesitate another day to have your nails examined.

How are nail diseases treated?

Your nail disease treatment plan at Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh just depends on what’s affecting your nails and the severity of your symptoms. Nail disease treatments can include:

• Removing the affected part of the nail
• Applying prescription-strength creams
• Taking antibiotics or antiviral medications
• Going through laser treatment sessions
• Using medicated nail polish

In some cases, an in-office nail surgery is needed to remove the entire nail. This may be necessary if you have an abnormal growth under your nail and need a biopsy, or if you have a serious infection that requires direct skin treatment.

In any case, the team at Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh helps you recover from your nail disease while working to restore your healthy nails.

Schedule your nail disease evaluation at Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh today. Request an appointment online, or call the office directly.