A Brief Look At Different Nail Problems
It seems that as we get older we suffer more and different types of nail problems. This is generally a true statement, as children and younger adults don't have nearly as many nail problems as older adults are apt to encounter. The reason for this isn't necessarily aging, although as we age, certain body parts can change to some degree. Our nails for instance usually thicken as we age, sometimes becoming a source of problems. The reason behind most of the nail problems we face are usually of our own doing, injury being an exception of course.
Nail problems can range purely cosmetic to downright painful. One of the more common painful nail problems is an ingrown nail, which most often occurs on the large toenail although any nail can have the condition. Pressure on the nail or incorrect trimming of the nail can result its curving inward and growing into the skin. Ingrown nails can at times be treated by a program of proper trimming, which involves mainly trimming the nail straight across. There are instances when professional help, including surgery, may be necessary to deal with an ingrown nail.
Fungal Infections - Fungal infections are also common, more common than ingrown nails. Fungal infections are more apt to occur on the toenails for the simple reason that the toes, being encased in shoes a good part of the time, can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Fungal infections can take a long time to develop, and sometimes a fairy lengthy time to treat and cure. In the case of the toenail, the fungal infection, usually occurring underneath the nail, will over time become thicker, often to the point where discomfort is felt. The big toe is often the first and sometimes only place a fungal infection occurs, but any nail is susceptible. Fungal infections, at least the kind associated with the toenails, seldom occur under the fingernails, and when they do occur, the type of fungus involved is usually different.
Bacterial Infections - Bacterial nail infections are far less common, and usually occur as the result of an injury. The nail is normally not permanently damaged or destroyed when a bacterial infection exists, but in some case may become discolored. An injury can also result in a nail becoming streaked or spotted. White spots on the nails are also the result of injuries but are usually relatively harmless, and eventually grow out as the nail grows.
Symptoms Of Other Diseases -Many nail disorders are not the result of any intrinsic problem with the nail itself, but are instead symptoms of another disease or disorder. A doctor can tell quite a bit about our general health by examining our nails, particularly the fingernails. The next time you visit your doctor, if he or she looks at your hands, they are probably examining your fingernails for any telltale symptoms.
Persons suffering form diabetes will often have nails that take on a yellowish or jaundiced look. A yellowed nail can also be a symptom of a lung disease, especially if the nail is thickening as it turns yellowish. The bed of the nail has a few tales to tell as well. If red, a heart condition may be present and if pale, the person may be suffering from anemia. Kidney disease can have a strange impact on a nail, turning it half pink and half white. If the nail is all white, there may be a liver disorder that requires attention.
By following a pattern of good personal hygiene, properly trimming both fingernails and toenails, keeping the feet clean and dry at all times, and by wearing shoes that fit well, most nail problems can be avoided.