Medical term for thick toenails. Onychauxis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments for Thick Toenails
What is the medical term for thick toenails. How does onychauxis affect nail growth. What are the common causes of abnormally thick nails. Which treatment options are available for onychauxis.
Understanding Onychauxis: The Medical Term for Thick Toenails
Onychauxis is a nail disorder characterized by abnormally thick fingernails or toenails. This condition, also known as hypertrophy of the nail, can lead to various complications if left untreated. As the nails thicken, they may curl and change color, typically turning white or yellow. In some cases, the nail plate may separate from the nail bed, increasing the risk of fungal infections.
Is onychauxis more prevalent in certain age groups? Indeed, this condition is more common among older adults, with the likelihood of developing onychauxis increasing with age.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Onychauxis
Identifying onychauxis early can help manage the condition more effectively. The primary symptoms include:
- Abnormal thickening of the nails
- Separation of the nail plate from the nail bed
- Yellow or white discoloration
- Red or black coloring if left untreated
- Brittle, crumbling nail edges
- Pain in severe cases
Can onychauxis symptoms worsen over time? Yes, if left untreated, the nails may continue to thicken and curl, making them difficult to trim and maintain. This progression can complicate treatment and lead to increased discomfort.
Exploring the Causes of Onychauxis
Onychauxis can result from various factors, and a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional is crucial to determine the underlying cause. Some common causes include:
- Hereditary factors
- Acute trauma to the nail
- Chronic trauma from repetitive pressure
- Hormonal disorders like acromegaly
- Psoriasis
- Reduced circulation
- Diabetes
- Genetic skin disorders such as Darier disease
- Fungal or yeast infections
- Rare skin conditions like pityriasis rubra pilaris
Are tight-fitting shoes a risk factor for onychauxis? Yes, wearing shoes that are too tight or small can contribute to the development of this nail disorder by causing chronic trauma to the nails.
The Connection Between Onychauxis and Other Health Conditions
Onychauxis can be an indicator of underlying health issues. For instance, individuals with diabetes commonly develop thick nails, either as a complication of the disease or due to reduced circulation. Similarly, psoriasis can affect nail growth, with more than half of psoriasis patients experiencing nail involvement.
Does onychauxis increase the risk of other nail problems? While onychauxis itself isn’t contagious, it can make the nails more susceptible to fungal infections. The thickened, separated nail plate provides an ideal environment for fungi to thrive.
Diagnosing Onychauxis: What to Expect
When diagnosing onychauxis, healthcare providers typically perform a thorough examination of the affected nails. They may also inquire about your medical history, lifestyle factors, and any recent injuries or traumas to the nail area. In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to rule out other conditions or identify underlying causes.
Is a biopsy required to diagnose onychauxis? While not always necessary, a nail biopsy may be performed in certain cases to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other nail disorders with similar symptoms.
Differential Diagnosis: Distinguishing Onychauxis from Other Nail Conditions
Onychauxis can sometimes be confused with other nail disorders, particularly onychomycosis (fungal nail infection). A proper diagnosis is crucial for determining the most effective treatment approach. Healthcare providers may use various diagnostic tools, including nail clippings for laboratory analysis or dermatoscopy, to differentiate between onychauxis and other nail conditions.
Treatment Options for Onychauxis: Medical Interventions and Home Remedies
The treatment of onychauxis depends on its underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. It’s important to note that treatment may not always be necessary unless the condition causes pain or interferes with daily activities. However, many individuals seek treatment for cosmetic reasons.
Medical Treatments for Onychauxis
Medical interventions for onychauxis may include:
- Treating underlying conditions that may be causing the nail thickening
- Partial or complete removal of the affected nail in severe cases
- Prescription medications to address associated infections or skin conditions
When is nail removal considered for onychauxis? Nail removal is typically reserved for extreme cases where the nail has become so thick that it causes severe pain and cannot be properly cared for at home.
Home Remedies and Self-Care for Onychauxis
While medical treatments are sometimes necessary, there are several home remedies and self-care practices that can help manage onychauxis:
- Regular nail trimming and filing to manage thickness
- Soaking nails in warm water to soften them before trimming
- Using over-the-counter antifungal treatments if a fungal infection is present
- Applying moisturizing creams or oils to keep the nails and surrounding skin hydrated
- Wearing comfortable, properly fitting shoes to prevent further trauma
Can dietary changes help manage onychauxis? While there’s no direct evidence linking diet to onychauxis, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for nail health may support overall nail condition.
Preventing Onychauxis: Strategies for Maintaining Healthy Nails
While some risk factors for onychauxis, such as genetics or certain health conditions, can’t be controlled, there are steps you can take to promote nail health and potentially reduce the risk of developing this condition:
- Practice good nail hygiene by keeping nails clean and dry
- Trim nails regularly and file them to prevent snags and tears
- Wear properly fitting shoes to avoid chronic trauma to the toenails
- Use protective footwear in public areas like locker rooms to reduce the risk of fungal infections
- Address any underlying health conditions that may affect nail health
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in biotin, vitamins, and minerals
How often should nails be trimmed to prevent onychauxis? While individual needs may vary, generally trimming nails every 1-2 weeks can help maintain their health and prevent excessive thickening.
Living with Onychauxis: Coping Strategies and Quality of Life Considerations
For individuals living with onychauxis, the condition can impact both physical comfort and emotional well-being. Thick, discolored nails may cause embarrassment and affect self-esteem. However, with proper management and care, many people can maintain a good quality of life despite this condition.
Emotional Impact and Self-Care
Dealing with the aesthetic aspects of onychauxis can be challenging. Some strategies to cope with the emotional impact include:
- Educating yourself about the condition to better understand and manage it
- Joining support groups or online communities for individuals with nail disorders
- Practicing self-care routines that focus on overall nail and foot health
- Considering professional pedicures or nail care services if self-maintenance is difficult
Are there cosmetic solutions for onychauxis? While treating the underlying condition is crucial, some individuals may choose to use nail polish or artificial nails to improve the appearance of affected nails. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using any cosmetic products, as they may interfere with treatment or exacerbate the condition.
Adapting Daily Activities
Onychauxis can sometimes interfere with daily activities, particularly if it affects multiple nails or causes discomfort. Some adaptations may include:
- Wearing open-toed shoes or sandals to reduce pressure on affected nails
- Using specialized nail care tools designed for thick nails
- Modifying exercise routines to minimize impact on affected toes
- Seeking assistance from a podiatrist or nail care professional for regular maintenance
How can individuals with onychauxis maintain an active lifestyle? With proper nail care and appropriate footwear, many people with onychauxis can continue to enjoy physical activities. It’s important to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed to prevent further nail trauma.
Onychauxis Research and Future Treatments
While onychauxis is a well-recognized nail disorder, ongoing research continues to explore its causes, prevention, and treatment options. Some areas of current interest include:
- Genetic factors contributing to onychauxis susceptibility
- Novel topical treatments to manage nail thickness and appearance
- Advanced imaging techniques for early detection and monitoring of nail disorders
- Potential links between onychauxis and systemic health conditions
Are there any promising new treatments on the horizon for onychauxis? While research is ongoing, some emerging treatments include laser therapy to reduce nail thickness and innovative nail-penetrating medications to improve nail health from within. However, these treatments are still in various stages of development and may not be widely available yet.
The Role of Technology in Onychauxis Management
Advancements in technology are playing an increasingly important role in the diagnosis and management of nail disorders like onychauxis. Some notable developments include:
- Smartphone apps for tracking nail growth and monitoring treatment progress
- Telemedicine platforms allowing remote consultations with dermatologists or podiatrists
- 3D printing technology for custom orthotic devices to alleviate pressure on affected nails
- AI-powered image analysis tools to assist in early detection and diagnosis of nail abnormalities
How might these technological advancements impact the future of onychauxis treatment? As technology continues to evolve, it may lead to more personalized treatment approaches, improved patient monitoring, and potentially earlier intervention for individuals at risk of developing onychauxis.
Onychauxis in Special Populations: Considerations for Specific Groups
While onychauxis can affect anyone, certain populations may require special considerations in its management and treatment:
Elderly Individuals
As onychauxis is more common in older adults, special attention should be given to nail care in this population. Factors to consider include:
- Reduced manual dexterity, which may make self-care more challenging
- Increased risk of comorbidities that can complicate treatment
- Potential interactions between onychauxis treatments and other medications
Athletes and Active Individuals
For those engaged in regular physical activity, onychauxis management may involve:
- Careful selection of athletic footwear to minimize nail trauma
- Regular foot inspections to catch early signs of nail problems
- Tailored nail care routines to accommodate increased stress on the nails
Individuals with Chronic Health Conditions
People with conditions like diabetes or peripheral vascular disease may require:
- More frequent medical monitoring of nail health
- Specialized foot care regimens to prevent complications
- Close coordination between different healthcare providers for comprehensive management
How does diabetes impact the treatment of onychauxis? Diabetes can complicate onychauxis management due to reduced circulation and increased infection risk. Treatment plans for diabetic individuals often involve more frequent check-ups and a multidisciplinary approach to ensure optimal nail and foot health.
The Economic Impact of Onychauxis: Healthcare Costs and Productivity
While often considered a cosmetic issue, onychauxis can have significant economic implications, both for individuals and healthcare systems:
Direct Healthcare Costs
The management of onychauxis may involve various expenses, including:
- Medical consultations with dermatologists or podiatrists
- Prescription medications or topical treatments
- Surgical procedures in severe cases
- Regular professional nail care services
Indirect Costs
Beyond direct medical expenses, onychauxis can lead to indirect costs such as:
- Lost productivity due to medical appointments or discomfort
- Expenses related to specialized footwear or nail care products
- Potential impact on career choices for individuals in professions requiring extensive standing or walking
Does health insurance typically cover onychauxis treatment? Coverage for onychauxis treatment can vary widely depending on the insurance provider and the specific circumstances. While medically necessary treatments may be covered, cosmetic procedures are often excluded from insurance plans.
Public Health Considerations
From a public health perspective, addressing onychauxis and related nail disorders can have broader implications:
- Early detection and treatment may prevent more costly complications
- Education about proper nail care can reduce the overall incidence of nail disorders
- Improved management of underlying conditions like diabetes can have positive ripple effects on overall health outcomes
How might increased awareness of onychauxis impact public health strategies? Greater awareness could lead to earlier interventions, potentially reducing the overall burden on healthcare systems and improving quality of life for affected individuals.
Definition, Pictures, Symptoms, Treatment, and More
Overview
Onychauxis is a nail disorder that causes fingernails or toenails to grow abnormally thick. Over time, the nails may become curled and turn white or yellow.
This thickening of the nail may force the nail plate (the part you paint with nail polish) to separate from the nail bed. Though toenail fungus can cause similar symptoms, onychauxis isn’t caused by a fungus. However, your risk for developing a fungal infection increases if you have this nail disorder.
Onychauxis, which is sometimes called hypertrophy of the nail, is more common in older adults. The older you get, the more likely you are to experience this condition.
Symptoms of onychauxis include:
- abnormal thickening of the nail
- separation of the nail plate from the nail bed
- yellow or white appearance
- red or black coloring if left untreated
- brittle crumbling around the edges of the nail
- pain
Symptoms may become more severe if onychauxis is left untreated. The nails may begin to curl, and they may become so thick it’s impossible to trim or maintain them. That, in turn, can make treating the nail disorder more difficult.
Onychauxis may be the result of several conditions or issues. Your doctor can diagnose what the underlying issue for your abnormal nail growth is.
The most common causes for onychauxis include:
- Hereditary causes. If one or both of your parents have this nail condition, you’re more likely to develop it.
- Acute trauma. Stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it can cause trauma to your nail bed and nail plate. The trauma may cause nail thickening. In some cases, this may be temporary until the nail heals.
- Chronic trauma. Individuals who inflict a good deal of pressure on their feet for long periods of time, such as athletes, dancers, or runners, may be more likely to develop this nail disorder. The long-term stress on the nail beds and nail plates may trigger the unusual growth. Wearing shoes that are too tight or too small can also cause this condition.
- Acromegaly. This hormonal disorder is the result of too much growth hormone. Though rare, it can cause nails to growth denser.
- Psoriasis. This skin condition causes thick patches of scaly skin, and it can cause nails to grow thicker and more brittle. More than half of people with psoriasis will experience nail psoriasis, too.
- Reduced circulation. Without a proper supply of nutrients, your nails may be unable to grow properly.
- Diabetes. People with diabetes commonly develop thick nails. This may be a complication of the disease, or it may be the result of reduced circulation, which is also common with diabetes.
- Darier disease. A genetic skin disorder, Darier disease causes wart-like blemishes that may be yellow, emit a strong odor, and are hard to the touch. This condition can also cause nail abnormalities, including white and red stripes in the nail plate and unusual thickness.
- Infection. A yeast or fungal infection in the nail bed or around the nail plate can cause symptoms, including discoloration and thicker nails.
- Pityriasis rubra pilaris. This rare skin condition causes chronic inflammation and reddish-orange scales or blotches on the skin. It can also lead to nail thickening, discoloration, and shedding.
Onychauxis isn’t contagious, and it can’t be spread from person to person directly. It’s possible you could inherit the gene that increases your risk for this condition from a parent. However, touching the nails of a person with this disorder will not increase your risk for developing it.
That being said, people who have onychauxis may be more likely to develop a toenail fungus as a result of this condition. Some types of toenail fungus can be spread through contact with another person.
Treatment for onychauxis falls into two main categories: medical treatments and home remedy options. There isn’t standard treatment for this condition. Instead, your doctor will decide a course of action based on a suspected cause and your specific symptoms.
It’s important to note that you don’t have to treat this condition unless it becomes painful and interferes with your day-to-day activities. However, many individuals will seek out a treatment or diagnosis for an underlying condition because the nails may be unsightly.
Medical treatments for onychauxis
Treat underlying conditions. If you have this nail growth issue, your doctor may want to identify potential issues that could be causing it. In some cases, there isn’t an underlying issue, but if one can be found, it can be treated. Treatment means the thick growths and discoloration may stop.
Removal of the affected nail. In extreme cases, your doctor may choose to remove a portion or all of the thickened nail. This is an option when the nail becomes so thick you experience severe pain and can’t properly care for it on your own anymore.
Home remedy options
Keep neat, trimmed nails. Trimming your nails frequently will help with their appearance. It may also ease some pain if nails rub against shoes and cause discomfort. If your nail clippers aren’t thick enough to tackle the job, talk with your doctor about any special tools you may need. Eventually, you may need to see a podiatrist, a doctor who specializes in the treatment of conditions and diseases of the foot, ankle, and lower limbs.
Wear comfortable shoes. Tight shoes may cause onychauxis, and they may make symptoms, especially pain, worse. A professional shoe fitting can help you decide if you need a wider shoe option so your toes have plenty of room. Wide-toe shoes may be a smart option if you frequently experience pain from toenails rubbing against your shoes.
Paint with a polish. Nail polish may help cover the discoloration, but it will not end or stop the abnormal growth.
Move more. Boost circulation in your lower extremities by walking, riding a bicycle, or otherwise moving more. The increase in blood, oxygen, and other nutrients may end the unusual nail growth issue.
Onychauxis may seem worrisome, but it’s rarely dangerous and unlikely to cause serious side effects.
In some cases, onychauxis can be treated. This is especially true when the abnormally thick nails are the result of an underlying condition, such as an infection or trauma. It may take time — nails do grow slowly — but it’s likely you can recover normal nail growth.
If onychauxis is left untreated, you may eventually experience complications like curled toenails, thick nails that cannot be trimmed, and pain. In this case, a doctor may have to help you trim and maintain the nails so that they don’t interfere with your day-to-day life.
Unfortunately, it may not be possible to prevent onychauxis. However, keeping your nails trimmed and clean, wearing light shoes with wide toes, and getting exercise may all help reduce your risk for this nail disorder. If you believe you may be developing onychauxis, make an appointment to see your doctor. Early treatment may help stop and reverse the condition.
Definition, Pictures, Symptoms, Treatment, and More
Overview
Onychauxis is a nail disorder that causes fingernails or toenails to grow abnormally thick. Over time, the nails may become curled and turn white or yellow.
This thickening of the nail may force the nail plate (the part you paint with nail polish) to separate from the nail bed. Though toenail fungus can cause similar symptoms, onychauxis isn’t caused by a fungus. However, your risk for developing a fungal infection increases if you have this nail disorder.
Onychauxis, which is sometimes called hypertrophy of the nail, is more common in older adults. The older you get, the more likely you are to experience this condition.
Symptoms of onychauxis include:
- abnormal thickening of the nail
- separation of the nail plate from the nail bed
- yellow or white appearance
- red or black coloring if left untreated
- brittle crumbling around the edges of the nail
- pain
Symptoms may become more severe if onychauxis is left untreated. The nails may begin to curl, and they may become so thick it’s impossible to trim or maintain them. That, in turn, can make treating the nail disorder more difficult.
Onychauxis may be the result of several conditions or issues. Your doctor can diagnose what the underlying issue for your abnormal nail growth is.
The most common causes for onychauxis include:
- Hereditary causes. If one or both of your parents have this nail condition, you’re more likely to develop it.
- Acute trauma. Stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it can cause trauma to your nail bed and nail plate. The trauma may cause nail thickening. In some cases, this may be temporary until the nail heals.
- Chronic trauma. Individuals who inflict a good deal of pressure on their feet for long periods of time, such as athletes, dancers, or runners, may be more likely to develop this nail disorder. The long-term stress on the nail beds and nail plates may trigger the unusual growth. Wearing shoes that are too tight or too small can also cause this condition.
- Acromegaly. This hormonal disorder is the result of too much growth hormone. Though rare, it can cause nails to growth denser.
- Psoriasis. This skin condition causes thick patches of scaly skin, and it can cause nails to grow thicker and more brittle. More than half of people with psoriasis will experience nail psoriasis, too.
- Reduced circulation. Without a proper supply of nutrients, your nails may be unable to grow properly.
- Diabetes. People with diabetes commonly develop thick nails. This may be a complication of the disease, or it may be the result of reduced circulation, which is also common with diabetes.
- Darier disease. A genetic skin disorder, Darier disease causes wart-like blemishes that may be yellow, emit a strong odor, and are hard to the touch. This condition can also cause nail abnormalities, including white and red stripes in the nail plate and unusual thickness.
- Infection. A yeast or fungal infection in the nail bed or around the nail plate can cause symptoms, including discoloration and thicker nails.
- Pityriasis rubra pilaris. This rare skin condition causes chronic inflammation and reddish-orange scales or blotches on the skin. It can also lead to nail thickening, discoloration, and shedding.
Onychauxis isn’t contagious, and it can’t be spread from person to person directly. It’s possible you could inherit the gene that increases your risk for this condition from a parent. However, touching the nails of a person with this disorder will not increase your risk for developing it.
That being said, people who have onychauxis may be more likely to develop a toenail fungus as a result of this condition. Some types of toenail fungus can be spread through contact with another person.
Treatment for onychauxis falls into two main categories: medical treatments and home remedy options. There isn’t standard treatment for this condition. Instead, your doctor will decide a course of action based on a suspected cause and your specific symptoms.
It’s important to note that you don’t have to treat this condition unless it becomes painful and interferes with your day-to-day activities. However, many individuals will seek out a treatment or diagnosis for an underlying condition because the nails may be unsightly.
Medical treatments for onychauxis
Treat underlying conditions. If you have this nail growth issue, your doctor may want to identify potential issues that could be causing it. In some cases, there isn’t an underlying issue, but if one can be found, it can be treated. Treatment means the thick growths and discoloration may stop.
Removal of the affected nail. In extreme cases, your doctor may choose to remove a portion or all of the thickened nail. This is an option when the nail becomes so thick you experience severe pain and can’t properly care for it on your own anymore.
Home remedy options
Keep neat, trimmed nails. Trimming your nails frequently will help with their appearance. It may also ease some pain if nails rub against shoes and cause discomfort. If your nail clippers aren’t thick enough to tackle the job, talk with your doctor about any special tools you may need. Eventually, you may need to see a podiatrist, a doctor who specializes in the treatment of conditions and diseases of the foot, ankle, and lower limbs.
Wear comfortable shoes. Tight shoes may cause onychauxis, and they may make symptoms, especially pain, worse. A professional shoe fitting can help you decide if you need a wider shoe option so your toes have plenty of room. Wide-toe shoes may be a smart option if you frequently experience pain from toenails rubbing against your shoes.
Paint with a polish. Nail polish may help cover the discoloration, but it will not end or stop the abnormal growth.
Move more. Boost circulation in your lower extremities by walking, riding a bicycle, or otherwise moving more. The increase in blood, oxygen, and other nutrients may end the unusual nail growth issue.
Onychauxis may seem worrisome, but it’s rarely dangerous and unlikely to cause serious side effects.
In some cases, onychauxis can be treated. This is especially true when the abnormally thick nails are the result of an underlying condition, such as an infection or trauma. It may take time — nails do grow slowly — but it’s likely you can recover normal nail growth.
If onychauxis is left untreated, you may eventually experience complications like curled toenails, thick nails that cannot be trimmed, and pain. In this case, a doctor may have to help you trim and maintain the nails so that they don’t interfere with your day-to-day life.
Unfortunately, it may not be possible to prevent onychauxis. However, keeping your nails trimmed and clean, wearing light shoes with wide toes, and getting exercise may all help reduce your risk for this nail disorder. If you believe you may be developing onychauxis, make an appointment to see your doctor. Early treatment may help stop and reverse the condition.
Thickening of the nail plate.
The main causes of thickening of the nail plate
Much more often we hear about the problems of thinning of the nail plate. This also applies to the arms and legs. And more and more often it provokes such thinning – the regular wearing of coatings with gel polish, without interruptions for the rest of the nails and for their restoration. But there is another opposite problem – thickening of the nails. And the work to solve it should be no less effective than the actions that prevent the thinning of the nail plate.
Like any other nail problem, thickening of the nail plates is a consequence that leads to:
- Hereditary features. The solution may be problematic, but not hopeless.
- Diseases not related to podology and medical manicure and pedicure. Thickening of the nails here is a manifestation of these very diseases. For example, autoimmune diseases. Treatment of nails, in this case, is carried out in parallel with the medication, selected by the attending physician.
- Missing care. Unfortunately, quite often, nail care begins when visible problems appear. In this case, you should choose a remedy that not only cares, but also heals.
- Choice of nail care products – pacifiers. Often, beautiful packaging ranks first when choosing nail care products, but not composition. The same applies to the price. When choosing an all-in-one tool at a very low price, it is worth doubting the quality of the components and the declared action of the product.
- Infection, including fungal. A pedicure made by an unscrupulous master who does not pay due attention to the processing of tools, visiting places of increased risk of fungus infection without using nail and skin protection products (pool, sauna, beach). Wearing slippers that are not your own, for example, at a party. A fungal infection is one of the most common causes of thickened nails.
- Onycholysis. The process by which the nail plate separates from the nail bed.
- Choosing shoes with the wrong size. There is a compression of the nail plates and their deformation.
- Nail injuries. As a result, the fresh keratin layer may not grow along the growth line.
Self-diagnosis in case of nail thickening can lead to a more serious progression of the problem. If your problem of thickening of the nail plates is not related to health and is not an external manifestation of a disease of the internal organs, a podologist and a medical pedicure master will help you.
Consequences of lack of care
A thickened nail may change color and translucency. It can crumble, crack, break easily. And such a nail can have a negative effect on the skin around it and begin to grow into the side ridges.
The problem of thick nails should not be thought of only as a problem of wearing open shoes. The problem is serious. If you think about the primary function of nails, then their negative change can cause a number of problems. After all, the nails prevent mechanical damage to the tips of the fingers and toes, the nails serve as a solid reinforcement of the phalanges of the fingers and allow you to hold the items in your hand. That is, the nails perform a protective function.
VseDlyaNog.RF, a branded online store of professional cosmetics for feet, highlights this problem, emphasizing that you can solve it yourself. To do this, you need to buy a nail product that will return the nails to their natural state, transparency and beauty.
And the sooner you start treating nails that are thickened due to factors other than diseases that cause thick nails, the sooner you can restore their beauty and move on to maintenance treatments as part of your regular home care routine.
Solving the problem of thick nails
A podiatrist who has information about the problem of thick nails as an aesthetic imperfection will be able to determine the degree of damage to the nail without any problems and suggest a remedy that will really help to cope with the problem and contribute to the growth of a completely healthy nail. For these purposes, experts choose professional foot cosmetics with effective formulations and proven action.
What is a tool supposed to be able to do?!
- Soften thick and hard nails for painless cutting without chipping or chipping;
- Nourish and soften the skin around the nail, as a thick nail may damage the lateral ridge or begin to grow into it;
- Promote healthy nail growth;
For this purpose, podologists recommend the use of a softener for thick and hard nails:
Nail and cuticle softener with allantoin Baehr Nagelweicher
After trimming and trimming the skin around the nails, you should use the base product, which will promote the growth of strong, elastic and healthy nail thickness with a set of powerful moisturizing and nourishing functions.
Regular nail care product recommended by podologists and pedicurists, including medical:
Baehr Nagel-Pflege nail care oil
Nails are dense horny (keratin) plates that tend to change under various negative factors. And it is not always possible to prevent this or that problem that contributes to their thickening in time. But, having at hand the means recommended by specialists, you can solve the problem on your own and without consequences.
Onychomycosis (nail fungus) – causes, treatment, prevention
What is onychomycosis?
Onychomycosis is a disease of the nails, commonly known as nail fungus. Caused by pathogenic fungi
Onychomycosis may affect one or more of the nails on the hands and/or feet. However, the symptoms can be exactly the same.
IMPORTANT! Information from the article cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-treatment! Only a doctor can prescribe the necessary examinations, establish a diagnosis and draw up a treatment plan for a consultation!
Causes and ways of infection with nail fungus
Mushrooms get on the skin and nails of all of us, but they do not cause disease in everyone. The scales of the skin and nails of people with onychomycosis contain spores of fungi – the sources of the disease. Both in healthy people and in people infected with a fungus, scales that are not visible to the eye peel off and fall on various surfaces and objects – a bath, towels, washcloths, rugs, etc.
However, in order to develop onychomycosis, predisposing factors are needed. For example, a violation of the blood supply or innervation of the nail plates.
This situation often occurs when wearing uncomfortable or unsuitable shoes, with sports and domestic injuries of the nail.
The presence of certain chronic diseases (eg diabetes mellitus) can also contribute to the development of onychomycosis.
You can become infected with nail fungus in swimming pools, showers in gyms, baths and saunas – that is, in those places where many people stand or walk barefoot. In addition, infection with onychomycosis is possible when wearing impersonal shoes (for example, slippers at a party, bowling shoes, rental skates, etc. )
Advanced nail fungus
Treatment of nail fungus is best started at the first symptoms of the disease. But people rarely go to the dermatologist because of the first changes in the structure of the skin and nails. Running forms are easy to identify just by looking at your nails. A serious reason for contacting a dermatologist is the discovery of the following symptoms:
- deformed thickened or thinned nails;
- destruction, flaking, crumbling of the nail;
- discoloration of the nail to gray, yellow, white, brown, sometimes green or black
An advanced form of onychomycosis leads to a decrease in immunity and the development of mycotic eczema.
Treatment of onychomycosis (nail fungus)
In the initial stage of the disease, you can limit yourself to local treatment, using varnishes from nail fungus and solutions. But such measures will be effective only if less than a quarter of one nail plate is damaged.