General Nail Care

general nail care

Your toenails are an important part of your overall foot health, and taking good care of them can help prevent discomfort, pain, and complications down the road. From fungal infections and ingrown toenails to skin diseases and nail tumours, there are a variety of conditions that can affect the health and appearance of your toenails.

Nail Lifting

Nail lifting is often the result of trauma, such as stubbing your toe or wearing shoes that are too tight. When the nail separates from the nail bed, it can create a gap between the nail and the skin, which can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. To avoid infection, it’s important to keep the affected nail clean and dry and to seek professional help if you notice any signs of infection.

Thickened Nails

Thickened toenails can be a common issue, and there are generally three main causes: normal aging, trauma, or fungal nail infection. While thickened toenails may seem like a minor issue, they can cause complications if left untreated.

As we age, our nails may naturally become thicker and more difficult to manage. However, thickened toenails can also be the result of trauma, such as repeatedly stubbing your toe or wearing shoes that are too tight. Additionally, fungal nail infections can cause thickening of the nail, which can make it more difficult to manage and can lead to discomfort when wearing shoes.

If left untreated, thickened toenails can become increasingly painful and may even injure the surrounding skin. They may also make it difficult to wear certain types of shoes or participate in certain activities.

If the thickening is caused by a fungal infection, it’s important to seek professional help from a podiatrist. They can provide a thorough examination and diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific needs. Treatment may involve cutting and drilling the nail to reduce its bulk, which can allow for better penetration of nail ointments or solutions.

Nail Ridging

Nail ridging is a common issue that can be caused by the natural aging process or may indicate an underlying condition. While some types of nail ridging are benign, others may be a sign of a more serious problem.

One condition that can cause nail ridging is psoriasis, an autoimmune disorder that causes red, scaly patches of skin. Psoriasis can affect the nails, causing ridging, pitting, or lifting of the nail from the nail bed. In addition to nail issues, psoriasis can also cause other symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, and inflammation.

If you’re experiencing nail ridging or other symptoms of psoriasis, it’s important to seek professional help from a dermatologist or other healthcare provider. They can provide a thorough examination and diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific needs.

Treatment for nail ridging may depend on the underlying cause of the problem. In some cases, improving nail hygiene and avoiding trauma to the nail may be sufficient. However, in more serious cases, medication or other treatments may be necessary to man

Splitting Nails

Nail splitting is a common issue that can be caused by the natural aging process or may indicate an underlying condition. It can present as horizontal or vertical splitting and is often seen in psoriatic nails, fungal or thickened nails, and as a response to physical stress or a deficiency in nutrients.

Nail splitting can occur when the nail structure is weakened, which can be caused by a variety of factors. These include physical stress, such as repeated impact or trauma to the nail, as well as nutritional deficiencies that can affect the health of the nail.

Treatment options for nail splitting may depend on the underlying cause of the problem. In many cases, simply cutting toenails short and using moisturizer on your nails and cuticles can be helpful in preventing further splitting. Nail hardening products and vitamin supplements that address your skin and nails can also be effective in improving nail health and preventing splitting.

If you’re experiencing nail splitting or other nail-related issues, it’s important to seek professional help from a podiatrist. They can provide a thorough examination and diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific needs.

Deformed or brittle nails

Deformed or brittle nails can be a common issue, and it’s important to identify the underlying cause of the problem. Some of the most common causes of deformed or brittle nails include:

The normal result of aging:

As we age, our nails may become more brittle and prone to breaking. This is a natural process and can be managed with proper nail care and nutrition.

Fungal toenail infection:

Fungal nail infections can cause nails to become brittle, discoloured, and deformed. These infections are typically caused by a type of fungus that thrives in warm and moist environments, such as inside shoes.

Trauma:

Trauma to the nail, such as repeatedly stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on your foot, can cause the nail to become deformed or brittle. In some cases, the nail may even fall off completely.

Skin or systemic conditions that can affect the nails

Certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis, can affect the nails and cause them to become brittle or deformed. Additionally, certain systemic conditions such as diabetes can also affect nail health.

If you’re experiencing deformed or brittle nails, it’s important to seek professional help from a podiatrist. They can provide a thorough examination and diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific needs. Treatment may involve medication, nail care, or other interventions to manage the underlying condition and improve the health and appearance of your nails.

Backterial Infections

Bacterial infections of the nail can be a painful and uncomfortable issue, and they typically occur in the skin surrounding the nail. This type of infection can be caused by a variety of factors, such as secondary to an ingrown toenail or it may be easily mistaken for an ingrown toenail due to the location of the infection.

Symptoms of bacterial nail infection may include redness, swelling, tenderness, and pus around the affected nail. If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause more serious complications.

If you suspect that you have a bacterial infection of the nail, it’s important to seek professional help from a podiatrist. They can provide a thorough examination and diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific needs.

Treatment for bacterial nail infections typically involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection. In some cases, the affected nail may need to be removed to allow for better drainage and faster healing. Your podiatrist can provide specific recommendations for treatment based on the severity and location of the infection.

Paronychia

Paronychia is a common medical condition that occurs when the skin surrounding the nail becomes inflamed and infected with bacteria. This can cause redness, swelling, and pain around the toenail, and may also lead to the formation of pus or peeling of the skin.

There are several risk factors that can increase your likelihood of developing paronychia. These include frequent visits to nail salons, excessive trimming of the nails or cuticles, a tendency to develop ingrown toenails, and wearing tight-fitting footwear that puts pressure on the toes.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of paronychia, it’s important to seek professional help from a podiatrist. They can provide a thorough examination and diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific needs.

Treatment for paronychia typically involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection. In some cases, the affected nail or surrounding tissue may need to be removed to allow for better drainage and faster healing. Your podiatrist can provide specific recommendations for treatment based on the severity and location of the infection.

Fungal nail infections

Fungal nail infections are a common issue that can cause nail deformations and thickening. Fungi consume the nail structure as their source of food, which can lead to changes in nail colour and texture.

Fungal infections can occur on the skin or in a toenail and are typically caused by fungi that are already present on the skin. These fungi thrive in moist, warm, and dark environments, such as inside shoes, and can quickly multiply under these conditions.

The signs and symptoms of a fungal nail infection include changes in nail colour, such as yellow, brown, or green, as well as a foul odour, lifting off the nail bed, splitting or crumbling of the nail, and a scaly or chalky appearance on top of the nail.

If you suspect that you have a fungal nail infection, it’s important to seek professional help from a podiatrist. They can provide a thorough examination and diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific needs.

Treatment for fungal nail infections typically involves antifungal medication to kill the fungi causing the infection. This may be in the form of topical creams or oral medication, depending on the severity and location of the infection. In some cases, the affected nail may need to be removed to allow for better penetration of the medication and faster healing.

Ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails can be a painful and uncomfortable problem that occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the skin surrounding it. This can cause pain, swelling, redness, warmth, and a yellow discharge known as pus. Ingrown toenails can be caused by a variety of factors, including nail trauma, improperly fitting shoes, a family history of ingrown toenails, fungal infections, abnormal toe or toenail shape, and aging.

To treat ingrown toenails, it’s important to first identify the underlying cause of the problem. This may involve a closer look at the individual’s footwear, nail care habits, and other factors that may contribute to the development of ingrown toenails.  If the toenail is infected, antibiotics may be necessary to treat the infection and prevent further complications.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it’s important to seek professional help from a podiatrist. They can provide a thorough examination and diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific needs.

Nail tumours

​​While rare, nail tumours can occur and may affect the health and appearance of your toenails. It’s important to regularly check your toenails for any changes or suspicious lesions and to seek professional help if you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms.

If you notice a lesion underneath your nail that doesn’t resolve or causes changes to your nail or skin, it’s important to seek attention from a podiatrist. They can provide a thorough examination and diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific needs.

Basic Toenail Care

The first step in proper toenail care is to maintain good hygiene. This includes keeping your toenails clean and dry, trimming them regularly, and wearing appropriate footwear that allows for proper ventilation.

When trimming your toenails, it is important to use the proper technique to avoid causing damage or discomfort. Always cut straight across the nail, avoiding any rounded or curved cuts that can cause ingrown toenails.

In addition to basic hygiene and trimming, it is also important to moisturise your toenails regularly. This helps to keep them healthy and prevent cracking, which can lead to further problems down the line.

Prevention is Key

Ultimately, the best way to ensure healthy toenails is to take preventative measures. This includes maintaining good hygiene habits, wearing appropriate footwear, and seeking professional help for any problems that arise.

In addition to these basic preventative measures, there are also a variety of supplements and other treatments available that can help to strengthen and improve the appearance of toenails. Your podiatrist can recommend these options based on your specific needs.

Proper toenail care is essential for maintaining healthy and attractive feet. By following the tips and advice provided in this article, readers can ensure that their toenails stay in top condition, free from common problems such as fungal infections and ingrown toenails.

Remember, prevention is key, and by taking simple steps to care for your toenails on a regular basis, you can avoid more serious problems down the line. So take care of your feet, and they will take care of you!

How a Podiatrist can help you?

In addition to treating nail problems, podiatrists can also provide guidance on proper nail care, including trimming techniques, appropriate footwear, and strategies for preventing common nail issues.

Overall, podiatrists are an essential resource for maintaining the health and function of your feet and nails. If you’re experiencing any nail-related issues, consulting with a podiatrist can help you receive the proper diagnosis and treatment to restore your nail health.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is nail lifting?

    Nail lifting occurs when the nail separates from the nail bed due to trauma, such as stubbing your toe or wearing tight shoes. It can create a gap between the nail and skin, which can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.

  • What causes thickened toenails?

    Thickened toenails can be caused by normal aging, trauma, or fungal nail infection. Aging can naturally cause nails to become thicker and more difficult to manage, while trauma such as repeatedly stubbing your toe or wearing tight shoes can also cause thickening. Fungal nail infections can also lead to the thickening of the nail.

  • How can nail splitting be treated?

    Nail splitting can be treated by cutting toenails short and using moisturizer on nails and cuticles to prevent further splitting. Nail hardening products and vitamin supplements can also improve nail health and prevent splitting. It’s important to seek professional help from a podiatrist for specific treatment recommendations based on the underlying cause of the problem.

  • What is a bacterial nail infection?

    A bacterial nail infection occurs when bacteria infect the skin surrounding the nail, typically caused by secondary ingrown toenails or trauma. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, tenderness, and pus around the affected nail. It’s important to seek professional help from a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

  • What is the importance of a podiatrist in toenail care?

    Podiatrists can provide guidance on proper toenail care, including trimming techniques, appropriate footwear, and strategies for preventing common nail issues. They can also diagnose and treat various nail problems such as fungal infections, ingrown toenails, and paronychia. Seeking help from a podiatrist can ensure the proper diagnosis and treatment for restoring nail health.