Although nails are often seen only as an aesthetic detail, they actually carry important clues about our general health. Colour change, thickening, deformity or brittleness can be the sign of a simple problem, but they can also be the herald of an underlying skin or systemic disease. Nail disease treatment begins with correct diagnosis; because the cause and treatment of many apparently similar problems are completely different.
Why are nail problems important?
Nails both affect the appearance of the hands and feet and reflect the state of health. While some nail changes are due only to a local problem (for example a fungal infection), others can be a symptom of skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema or of some internal diseases.
For this reason persistent nail problems should not be overlooked. A nail change thought to be ‘just a cosmetic problem’ can, with a detailed evaluation, reveal an important underlying cause. Correct diagnosis is valuable for protecting both the nail and general health.
Frequently seen nail problems
- Nail fungus (colour change, thickening, crumbling).
- Ingrown nail and inflammation around it.
- Pitting, ridging and deformities in the nail.
- Colour changes (yellowing, darkening, whitening).
- Brittle, thin and easily splitting nails.
Each of these problems can have different causes. For example, nail fungus is an infection; pitting can be a sign of psoriasis, and a spoon-shaped nail of iron deficiency. This variety shows why correct diagnosis is so important.
Nail fungus
Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is one of the most frequently encountered nail problems. It shows itself with yellowing, thickening, dullness and, over time, crumbling of the nail. It is especially seen frequently in the toenails and, when untreated, can progress and spread to other nails.
The definite diagnosis of nail fungus is important; because there are also nail changes that resemble fungus but are not fungus. When necessary, an examination can be done by taking a sample. Treatment is planned with topical or oral medications according to the extent of the fungus and requires patience; because the healthy growth of the nail takes time.
In fungal treatment, hygiene measures are also important to prevent recurrences. Keeping the feet dry, choosing suitable footwear and being careful in shared areas both support the treatment and reduce reinfection.
Ingrown nail
An ingrown nail is a frequent problem that leads to pain, redness and inflammation when the edge of the nail digs into the surrounding tissue. Factors such as incorrect nail cutting, tight shoes and the structure of the nail play a role. When untreated, it can recur and become chronic.
While in mild cases improvement can be achieved with correct care and precautions, in recurrent or inflamed cases different approaches may be needed. Correct nail cutting and the choice of suitable footwear are the most effective steps in preventing an ingrown nail.
Diagnosis and evaluation
The treatment of nail diseases begins with a detailed dermatological evaluation. The nails are examined closely; if necessary, a sample is taken for fungus or another cause. In addition, the other nails, the skin and the general state of health are also taken into account.
This holistic evaluation is important; because the nail is not just a part but a mirror reflecting the general state of the body. Correct diagnosis prevents unnecessary and fruitless treatments and ensures the determination of the right approach.
The most frequent mistake in nail problems is starting treatment without knowing the cause; yet correct diagnosis is half of the treatment.
The treatment process and patience
Patience is essential in nail treatments. Nails grow slowly; the complete renewal of fingernails can take months, and that of toenails even longer. For this reason, especially in conditions such as fungus, seeing the result takes time, and it is very important not to abandon the treatment halfway.
When treatment is abandoned halfway, the problem can recur and the process lengthens. For this reason, adhering to the treatment duration recommended by the physician and to the follow-up appointments is the key to success. Regular follow-up allows the effect of the treatment to be evaluated and the plan to be updated when necessary.
Alongside treatment, daily habits that protect nail health are also important: cutting the nails correctly, protecting them from excessive moisture and trauma, eating healthily and moisturising when necessary.
Frequently asked questions
Is every yellowing nail fungus? No. Yellowing of the nail can also be due to nail polish use, trauma, smoking or different diseases. For this reason the cause must be correctly determined before treatment; not every situation thought to be ‘fungus’ may be fungus.
When are nail changes important? If there is a persistent change in colour, shape or thickness, pain, bleeding or a rapidly progressing situation, it must definitely be evaluated. Especially dark lines appearing in a single nail should be examined carefully.
How long does treatment take? The duration depends on the problem and the growth rate of the nail. Fungal treatments in particular can take a long time. Patience and adherence to treatment directly affect the result; treatments abandoned early most often end in recurrence.
Recommendations for healthy nails
The most basic step in protecting nail health is correct nail cutting. Especially toenails should be cut straight, and excessive rounding from the edges should be avoided; this reduces the risk of an ingrown nail. That the nail clipper is clean and personal is also important for preventing infections.
Nails, just like skin, need moisturising. Especially in hands that frequently come into contact with water and detergents, moisturising the nail and its surroundings reduces brittleness. Using gloves during water work protects the nails from excessive moisture and chemicals.
Continuous use of nail polish, and especially permanent polish, can weaken the nails and lead to some changes. It is beneficial to give the nails an occasional ‘breathing’ break and adopt a healthy care routine. Excessive filing and thinning the nail surface should be avoided.
Using slippers in shared areas such as pools, showers and gyms reduces the risk of fungal transmission. Keeping the feet dry and preferring breathable shoes and socks is especially effective in preventing toenail fungus.
A balanced diet also affects nail health. A deficiency of iron, zinc and some vitamins can lead to brittleness and shape changes in the nails. For this reason, in persistent nail problems, it is important to evaluate whether there is an underlying deficiency.
When having a manicure and pedicure, it is necessary to pay attention to hygiene and to be sure of the sterilisation of the tools used. The cuticle should not be cut excessively; because this area is a natural barrier that protects the nail from infections.
All these measures help protect healthy nails. Even so, if there is a persistent or progressing nail problem, consulting a dermatologist instead of trying products on one's own is the safest path for both correct diagnosis and effective treatment.
At the clinic of Dr. Burcu Çelen, nail disease treatment is carried out with a detailed evaluation and a personalised approach based on correct diagnosis. You can make an appointment to evaluate the complaints in your nails.