Hand Doctors Explain Common Fingernail Conditions
Cracked, painful or discolored finger nails don’t just make your hands look unattractive, they can also be an indication that you have a medical condition or other health issues.
Additionally, while some over-the-counter remedies can provide temporary relief, these drugstore remedies typically do not treat the root cause of the underlying fingernail problem. Additionally, in some cases the fingernail condition can worsen and spread, and become not just unsightly but quite painful!
Board certified hand doctor Dr. Rehman is specially trained to diagnose and treat nail conditions. She has helped hundreds of patients in the Clarkston, Waterford & Bloomfield Hills area get relief from unattractive or painful fingernail conditions. And, in many cases, the condition or appearance of the fingernails can be a “clue” or “warning sign” that helps her identify other underlying medical conditions that should be diagnosed and treated.
In this article, Doctor Rehman explains a few of the more common medical conditions affecting the fingernails.
Fungal Infections of the Fingernails
Probably the most common cause of fingernail problems, fungal infections can be caused or aggravated by hot or humid environments, perspiring, conditions, genetic tendencies, or a suppressed immune system. Fungus is present in all humans, but when the system gets out of balance, the fungus can grow and spread. This can cause fingernail discoloration, and a thickening of the nail. Even worse, the fungus can spread from toenails to fingernails, and across the feet and hands.
Fingernail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a stubborn condition to treat. This infection is typically caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments. Risk factors include frequent hand washing, minor skin or nail injuries, and a weakened immune system. Symptoms often include nail discoloration (usually yellow or brown), thickening, and brittleness.
Treatment can be challenging and may require a combination of approaches. Prescription-strength anti-fungal medication is typically required to defeat a fungal fingernail or toenail infection. Dr. Rehman might prescribe oral antifungal medications for severe cases, which work from the inside out. Topical treatments, including medicated nail polishes or creams, are another option. In some cases, removal of the infected nail may be necessary.
Prevention is key, and Dr. Rehman advises patients to keep their hands dry, avoid sharing nail tools, and maintain good overall hand hygiene. And, you should never wait to see the doctor about this condition, as it is contagious and can not only spread in your body, but can be communicated to other people!
Terry’s Nails
In this medical condition, the fingernail bed turns an unusual white color, the nails become opaque and you may see a dark band at the tip. This means that the fingernails may even have begun to detach from the nail bed, causing the change in color. The appearance is caused by a reduction in vascularity and an increase in connective tissue within the nail bed.
In some cases, it can also be a normal sign of aging. Terry’s Nails can also be related to a fungal condition in some cases. However, this condition is often associated with underlying systemic diseases, particularly liver disease, congestive heart failure, kidney failure, or diabetes. Terry’s Nails can also be related to anemia and low iron.
While Terry’s nails themselves don’t require direct treatment, their presence often necessitates a thorough medical evaluation to identify and address any underlying health issues. Dr. Rehman works closely with patients presenting Terry’s nails, conducting comprehensive assessments and collaborating with other specialists as needed to ensure proper diagnosis and management of any associated conditions. It’s important to note that as the underlying health issue is treated, the nail appearance may gradually return to normal.
Because there are many medical causes of Terry’s Nails, so it is important to see a fingernail or hand doctor as soon as possible, to determine if there may be a more serious underlying medical condition.
Brittle Fingernails
Brittle fingernails can result from frequent exposure to water, harsh chemicals, or nail polish removers. However, other causes can include nutritional deficiencies, particularly lack of biotin, iron, or omega-3 fatty acids. Thin, frail, brittle or crumbling fingernails often indicates a deficiency in vitamins, with a Vitamin B7 deficiency often being implicated.
However, brittle nails can also be indicative of fingernail psoriasis, a thyroid disorder, a fungal infection, an iron deficiency or iron-deficiency anemia. Age, certain medications, and other underlying health conditions can also contribute to nail brittleness.
Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause and improving nail care habits. Dr. Rehman may recommend wearing gloves for wet work, using gentle nail products, and applying moisturizers regularly. In some cases, biotin supplements or other nutritional interventions may be suggested. But while supplementing with over-the-counter vitamins can help, it will not cure the underlying medical condition that is causing the nails to become thin and brittle.
For persistent cases of brittle nails, a thorough evaluation should be conducted to rule out systemic health issues. As with other fingernail conditions, there are many medical causes of Brittle Nails, so it is important to see a fingernail or hand doctor as soon as possible.
Vertical Grooves on Fingernails
“Beau’s lines” are horizontal depressions or grooves that run across the nails can be a sign of various health issues or environmental factors affecting nail growth. Beau’s lines occur when nail plate growth is temporarily disrupted. This can be caused by a range of factors, including physical injury to the nail or finger, severe illness, nutritional deficiencies, or exposure to extreme cold. Certain medications, chemotherapy, or metabolic conditions can also lead to the formation of Beau’s lines. In some cases, these lines may appear after a stressful event, as stress can impact the body’s protein synthesis and affect nail growth.
Treatment for Beau’s lines primarily focuses on addressing the underlying cause. Once the cause is resolved, the nail will typically grow out normally, with the lines gradually disappearing as the nail grows. This process can take several months, as fingernails grow at an average rate of about 3.5 mm per month. In cases where a nutritional deficiency is the cause, dietary changes or supplements may be recommended. For Beau’s lines resulting from injury or illness, allowing time for healing and maintaining overall nail health through proper nutrition and nail care is usually sufficient.
If you notice Beau’s lines on your nails, it’s important to consult with a hand specialist like Dr. Rehman. While often harmless, these lines can sometimes indicate more serious underlying health conditions that require medical attention. Dr. Rehman can provide a thorough examination, help determine the cause of your Beau’s lines, and recommend appropriate treatment or further testing if necessary. Remember, your nails can offer valuable insights into your overall health, and changes in their appearance should not be ignored.
Top Clarkson MI Area Fingernail & Hand Doctor
Your fingernails should be sturdy, with a healthy pink color. When you notice changes in the color, strength, texture, or indentations of the nails, or other malformations, it is time to get it checked out by a specialized fingernail and hand doctor.
Doctor Rehman specializes in diseases and conditions of the fingernails and hand. Dr. Rehman will do a thorough evaluation of all possible underlying conditions, properly diagnose your condition, and prescribe a treatment program that will relieve your symptoms and resolve the root problem as well.
If you or anyone in your family is suffering with fingernail or hand problems, contact Dr. Rehman’s office today at 586-532-0803.
