Psoriasis thumb nail. Nail Psoriasis: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment Options
What are the common symptoms of nail psoriasis. How is nail psoriasis diagnosed. What are the most effective treatments for nail psoriasis. Can nail psoriasis be prevented. How does nail psoriasis affect quality of life.
Understanding Nail Psoriasis: An In-Depth Look at This Common Condition
Nail psoriasis is a manifestation of psoriasis that specifically affects the fingernails and toenails. It occurs in about 50% of people with psoriasis and can sometimes be the only sign of the condition. This chronic autoimmune disorder causes rapid growth of skin cells, leading to various changes in the appearance and structure of the nails.
Key Characteristics of Nail Psoriasis
- Pitting (small depressions on the nail surface)
- Discoloration (yellow-brown patches known as “oil drops”)
- Thickening of the nail plate
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed (onycholysis)
- Crumbling or brittle nails
Are certain nails more commonly affected by psoriasis. While nail psoriasis can affect any nail, it is most frequently observed in the fingernails, particularly the thumb and index finger. This prevalence is often attributed to these nails being more exposed to minor trauma, which can trigger or exacerbate psoriatic symptoms.
Diagnosing Nail Psoriasis: What to Expect During a Medical Evaluation
Diagnosing nail psoriasis typically involves a thorough examination by a dermatologist or rheumatologist. The process may include:
- Visual inspection of the nails
- Review of medical history
- Evaluation of other psoriasis symptoms on the skin or joints
- In some cases, a nail biopsy to rule out other conditions
Can nail psoriasis be mistaken for other conditions. Yes, nail psoriasis can sometimes be confused with fungal nail infections or other nail disorders. This is why a professional diagnosis is crucial for proper treatment. Dermatologists use specific criteria and their expertise to differentiate nail psoriasis from other conditions that may present similar symptoms.
Treatment Options for Nail Psoriasis: From Topical Solutions to Systemic Therapies
Managing nail psoriasis often requires a combination of treatments tailored to the individual’s needs. The severity of the condition and its impact on the patient’s quality of life guide the treatment approach.
Topical Treatments
Topical treatments are often the first line of defense against nail psoriasis. These may include:
- Corticosteroid creams or ointments
- Vitamin D analogs (e.g., calcipotriol)
- Tazarotene (a retinoid)
- Tacrolimus or pimecrolimus (calcineurin inhibitors)
How effective are topical treatments for nail psoriasis. While topical treatments can be beneficial, especially for mild cases, their effectiveness can be limited due to the difficulty in penetrating the nail plate. For this reason, they are often used in combination with other therapies or as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Intralesional Treatments
In some cases, dermatologists may recommend intralesional treatments, which involve injecting medication directly into the affected area. Corticosteroid injections are the most common type of intralesional treatment for nail psoriasis.
Systemic Medications
For more severe cases or when topical treatments prove ineffective, systemic medications may be prescribed. These include:
- Methotrexate
- Cyclosporine
- Oral retinoids (e.g., acitretin)
Are biologic drugs effective for treating nail psoriasis. Yes, biologic drugs have shown significant promise in treating nail psoriasis, especially in cases resistant to other therapies. These medications target specific components of the immune system involved in psoriasis and can lead to substantial improvement in nail symptoms.
Lifestyle Modifications and Home Remedies for Managing Nail Psoriasis
While medical treatments are essential, certain lifestyle changes and home remedies can complement professional care and help manage nail psoriasis symptoms:
- Keep nails short and well-manicured to minimize trauma
- Moisturize nails and cuticles regularly
- Avoid picking or manipulating affected nails
- Wear protective gloves when working with water or chemicals
- Maintain good overall nail hygiene
Can dietary changes help manage nail psoriasis. While there’s no specific diet proven to cure nail psoriasis, some individuals report improvements with anti-inflammatory diets. Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and maintaining a balanced diet may support overall skin health and potentially alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
The Psychological Impact of Nail Psoriasis: Addressing Quality of Life Concerns
Nail psoriasis can significantly affect an individual’s quality of life, often leading to emotional and social challenges. The visible nature of nail changes can cause embarrassment, reduced self-esteem, and even social isolation in some cases.
Coping Strategies for Nail Psoriasis
- Joining support groups or online communities
- Seeking counseling or therapy if needed
- Educating friends and family about the condition
- Exploring nail cosmetics designed for psoriatic nails
How can individuals with nail psoriasis maintain a positive self-image. Focusing on overall well-being, engaging in activities that boost self-confidence, and connecting with others who have similar experiences can be helpful. Additionally, working closely with healthcare providers to find effective treatments can lead to improved nail appearance and, consequently, enhanced self-esteem.
Preventing Nail Psoriasis Flare-Ups: Identifying and Managing Triggers
While it’s not always possible to prevent nail psoriasis entirely, identifying and managing triggers can help reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Common triggers include:
- Stress
- Injuries to the nails
- Certain medications
- Infections
- Cold, dry weather
What strategies can help minimize nail psoriasis triggers. Practicing stress management techniques, protecting nails from injury, maintaining overall health, and adhering to prescribed treatments can all contribute to reducing flare-ups. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist can also help in early identification and management of potential triggers.
Emerging Treatments and Research in Nail Psoriasis Management
The field of nail psoriasis treatment is continually evolving, with ongoing research into new and more effective therapies. Some promising areas of study include:
- Novel biologic agents targeting specific immune pathways
- Improved drug delivery systems for topical treatments
- Combination therapies for enhanced efficacy
- Personalized treatment approaches based on genetic markers
What potential breakthroughs are on the horizon for nail psoriasis treatment. Recent advancements in understanding the genetic and immunological basis of psoriasis have opened doors for more targeted therapies. Researchers are exploring innovative approaches such as nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems and gene therapy, which could revolutionize nail psoriasis treatment in the coming years.
Nail Care Tips for Individuals with Psoriasis: Maintaining Healthy Nails
Proper nail care is crucial for individuals with psoriasis to maintain nail health and minimize complications. Here are some essential tips:
- Use gentle nail care products and avoid harsh chemicals
- Keep nails trimmed and filed to prevent snagging and further damage
- Apply moisturizer to nails and surrounding skin regularly
- Avoid artificial nails or nail products that can irritate the nail bed
- Use clear nail polish to protect and improve the appearance of affected nails
Is it safe to get professional manicures with nail psoriasis. While professional manicures aren’t strictly off-limits, it’s essential to inform the nail technician about your condition. Choose salons with high hygiene standards and avoid aggressive techniques that could damage the nails. Some individuals find that gentle, professional nail care can actually help maintain nail health when done correctly.
Nutrition for Nail Health in Psoriasis
While diet alone can’t cure nail psoriasis, certain nutrients can support overall nail health:
- Biotin (Vitamin B7) for nail strength
- Omega-3 fatty acids for their anti-inflammatory properties
- Zinc for nail growth and repair
- Vitamin D, which may help regulate skin cell growth
Can supplements help improve nail psoriasis symptoms. While some individuals report benefits from supplements, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new regimen. Supplements should complement, not replace, prescribed treatments for nail psoriasis.
Living with Nail Psoriasis: Practical Advice for Daily Life
Adapting to life with nail psoriasis involves more than just medical treatments. Here are some practical tips for managing the condition in everyday situations:
- Choose appropriate footwear to minimize pressure on affected toenails
- Use gloves when doing household chores to protect fingernails
- Explore nail-friendly hobbies that don’t put stress on the nails
- Be open with employers about any limitations caused by nail psoriasis
- Develop strategies for explaining the condition to others when necessary
How can individuals with nail psoriasis maintain an active lifestyle. With proper management and care, most people with nail psoriasis can participate in a wide range of activities. It’s important to listen to your body, protect your nails from excessive trauma, and work with your healthcare provider to find solutions that allow you to enjoy your favorite activities while managing your condition.
Emotional Well-being and Social Support
The emotional impact of nail psoriasis shouldn’t be underestimated. Building a strong support network can make a significant difference:
- Connect with psoriasis support groups, either in-person or online
- Share your experiences with trusted friends and family members
- Consider speaking with a mental health professional if the condition is causing significant distress
- Engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation or yoga
How can friends and family support someone with nail psoriasis. Education is key. By understanding the condition, loved ones can offer emotional support, help with practical tasks that might be challenging, and advocate for the individual when needed. Simple gestures of acceptance and normalization can go a long way in boosting the confidence of someone living with nail psoriasis.
The Future of Nail Psoriasis Treatment: Personalized Medicine and Beyond
As our understanding of psoriasis continues to grow, treatment approaches are becoming increasingly personalized. The future of nail psoriasis management may include:
- Genetic testing to predict treatment response
- Tailored combination therapies based on individual biomarkers
- Advanced imaging techniques for early diagnosis and treatment monitoring
- Novel drug delivery systems specifically designed for nail psoriasis
What role might artificial intelligence play in nail psoriasis management. AI and machine learning algorithms could potentially revolutionize diagnosis and treatment planning for nail psoriasis. These technologies could analyze vast amounts of patient data to identify patterns, predict treatment outcomes, and suggest optimized treatment plans tailored to individual patients.
Collaborative Care Approaches
Managing nail psoriasis often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Future treatment models may emphasize:
- Integrated care teams including dermatologists, rheumatologists, and mental health professionals
- Telemedicine platforms for remote monitoring and adjusting treatments
- Patient-centered care models that prioritize quality of life outcomes
- Incorporation of complementary therapies alongside conventional treatments
How might patient advocacy shape the future of nail psoriasis care. As patients become more empowered and involved in their healthcare decisions, their voices are likely to drive research priorities and treatment development. Patient advocacy groups play a crucial role in raising awareness, funding research, and ensuring that patient needs are at the forefront of medical advancements in nail psoriasis management.
What is nail psoriasis, and how can I treat it?
Diseases & conditions
-
Coronavirus Resource Center
-
Acne
-
Eczema
-
Hair loss
-
Psoriasis
-
Rosacea
-
Skin cancer
-
A to Z diseases
-
A to Z videos
- DIY acne treatment
- How dermatologists treat
- Skin care: Acne-prone skin
- Causes
- Is it really acne?
- Types & treatments
- Childhood eczema
- Adult eczema
- Insider secrets
- Types of hair loss
- Treatment for hair loss
- Causes of hair loss
- Hair care matters
- Insider secrets
- What is psoriasis
- Diagnosis & treatment
- Skin, hair & nail care
- Triggers
- Insider secrets
- What is rosacea
- Treatment
- Skin care & triggers
- Insider secrets
- Types and treatment
- Find skin cancer
- Prevent skin cancer
- Raise awareness
- Español
Featured
Reduce summertime rosacea flare-ups
The sun, heat, and humidity can all trigger rosacea and lead to flare-ups.
Find out how you can enjoy summer while reducing flare-ups.
JAK inhibitors: A newer type of medication
JAK inhibitors are helping patients with alopecia areata, eczema/atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and vitiligo. Here’s what you need to know.
Everyday care
-
Skin care basics
-
Skin care secrets
-
Injured skin
-
Itchy skin
-
Sun protection
-
Hair & scalp care
-
Nail care secrets
- Basic skin care
- Dry, oily skin
- Hair removal
- Tattoos and piercings
- Anti-aging skin care
- For your face
- For your skin routine
- Preventing skin problems
- Bites & stings
- Burns, cuts, & other wounds
- Itch relief
- Poison ivy, oak & sumac
- Rashes
- Shade, clothing, and sunscreen
- Sun damage and your skin
- Aprenda a proteger su piel del sol
- Your hair
- Your scalp
- Nail care basics
- Manicures & pedicures
Featured
Practice Safe Sun
Everyone’s at risk for skin cancer.
These dermatologists’ tips tell you how to protect your skin.
Relieve uncontrollably itchy skin
Find out what may be causing the itch and what can bring relief.
Darker Skin Tones
-
Skin care secrets
-
Hair care
-
Hair loss
-
Diseases & Conditions
- Acne
- Dark spots
- Dry skin
- Light spots
- Razor bumps
- Caring for Black hair
- Scalp psoriasis
- Weaves & extensions
- Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia
- Frontal fibrosing alopecia
- Hairstyles that pull can cause hair loss
- Acanthosis nigricans
- Acne keloidalis nuchae
- Hidradenitis suppurativa
- Keloid scars
- Lupus and your skin
- Sarcoidosis and your skin
- Skin cancer
- Vitiligo
- More diseases & conditions
Featured
Fade dark spots
Find out why dark spots appear and what can fade them.
Untreatable razor bumps or acne?
If you have what feels like razor bumps or acne on the back of your neck or scalp, you may have acne keloidalis nuchae. Find out what can help.
Cosmetic treatments
-
Your safety
-
Age spots & dark marks
-
Cellulite & fat removal
-
Hair removal
-
Scars & stretch marks
-
Wrinkles
-
Younger-looking skin
Featured
Laser hair removal
You can expect permanent results in all but one area.
Do you know which one?
Scar treatment
If you want to diminish a noticeable scar, know these 10 things before having laser treatment.
Botox
It can smooth out deep wrinkles and lines, but the results aren’t permanent. Here’s how long botox tends to last.
Public health programs
-
Skin cancer awareness
-
Free skin cancer screenings
-
Kids’ camp
-
Good Skin Knowledge
-
Shade Structure grants
-
Skin Cancer, Take a Hike!™
-
Awareness campaigns
-
Flyers & posters
-
Get involved
- Lesson plans and activities
- Community grants
Featured
Free materials to help raise skin cancer awareness
Use these professionally produced online infographics, posters, and videos to help others find and prevent skin cancer.
Dermatologist-approved lesson plans, activities you can use
Free to everyone, these materials teach young people about common skin conditions, which can prevent misunderstanding and bullying.
Find a dermatologist
-
Find a dermatologist
-
What is a dermatologist?
-
FAAD: What it means
-
How to select a dermatologist
-
Your digital health
-
Prior authorization
-
Dermatologists team up to improve patient care
- Finding accurate health information
- Health apps
- Wearable medical devices
- Telemedicine
- Protect your information
Featured
Find a Dermatologist
You can search by location, condition, and procedure to find the dermatologist that’s right for you.
What is a dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatologists care for people of all ages.
Nail Psoriasis: Picture, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention
Written by Paula Ford-Martin
- Symptoms of Nail Psoriasis
- Prevention of Nail Psoriasis
- Treatments for Nail Psoriasis
If you have psoriasis and you notice some changes in your nails, there are many treatments you can turn to for help.
Nail psoriasis alters the way your toenails and fingernails look. They may get thick, develop pinprick holes, and change color or shape. They also can feel tender and hurt.
You can treat these problems with medicine. Cosmetic repairs can make your nails look better.
You’ll know you’re getting nail psoriasis when you see these changes in your fingernails or toenails:
- Color.
Your nails may turn white, yellow, or brown. They may also have small red or white spots underneath. - Surface appearance. You may get ridges or grooves in your nails or pitting (small pinprick holes) on the nail surface.
- Debris buildup. Chalky white material can gather under your nail, causing it to lift away from the skin. This can be painful.
- Thickening. About a third of people with nail psoriasis can also get a fungal infection that can cause your nails to get thick. They may also get brittle and break.
- Separation. Your nail may loosen or separate from the nail bed.
Your nails may turn white, yellow, or brown. They may also have small red or white spots underneath.Some of these nail changes can make it hard to move your fingers and toes. You may also get tenderness and pain in your nails. This can make it hard to do things with your hands.
Good nail care is the best way to treat nail psoriasis. Try these prevention tips:
- Keep your nails trimmed short.
- Use a nail file to keep nail edges smooth.
- Wear gloves to clean and do other work with your hands.
- Moisturize your nails and cuticles every day and after they’ve been in contact with water.
- Wear comfortable shoes with enough room for your toes.
If you’re unhappy with the way your nails look, try nail varnish or artificial nails. They can also protect your nails from more damage. Some people are sensitive to the chemicals in varnish and nail adhesive. Talk to your doctor about whether these are right for you.
The same treatments you get for skin psoriasis can also treat your nail psoriasis. Because your nails grow slowly, it can take time before you see any improvements in the newly grown parts of your nail.
The treatments for nail psoriasis include:
Phototherapy. Ultraviolet light is used to treat skin psoriasis and may also be useful in nail psoriasis. The treatments usually take place in a doctor’s office or a clinic.
Medicines that work throughout your body. Your doctor may call these “systemic medications.” Some examples are:
- Acitretin (Soriatane)
- Apremilast (Otezla)
- Cyclosporine (Sandimmune)
- Methotrexate
Drugs that target specific parts of your immune system. You may hear your doctor call these “biologics.” They are given by injection under the skin, in a pill, or through an IV. Some examples are:
- TNF-alpha inhibitors:
- Adalimumab (Humira)
- Certolizumab pegol (Cimzia)
- Etanercept (Enbrel)
- Etanercept-szzs (Erelzi)
- Infliximab (Remicade)
- Interleukin 17 inhibitors:
- Brodalumab (Siliq)
- Ixekizumab (Taltz)
- Secukinumab (Cosentyx)
- Interleukin 23 inhibitors:
- Risankinumab (Skyrizi)
- Guselkumab (Tremfya)
- TIldrakizumab (Ilumya)
- Interleukin 12 and 23 inhibitor:
- Ustekinumab (Stelara)
Medicine you apply directly to your nails.
Your doctor may call these “topical” drugs. For nail psoriasis, they may suggest a corticosteroid (such as clobetasol), vitamin D, or retinoid creams that you rub into your nail and cuticle every day.
If your nails are thick, the medicine you apply may have a hard time getting inside. Gels or ointments that contain urea can help thin them.
Your doctor may also prescribe a nail lacquer that hydrates and strengthens your nails. You apply it every day in the same way you put on nail polish.
Corticosteroid injections. These are put under your nail surface every 2-9 months. Your doctor will numb the area or use a nerve block to reduce pain.
Top Picks
information about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of diseases
Enrollment is only possible through the contact center.
To register, fill out the form below and you will be contacted.
You are enrolling:
Clinic: {{department}}
Specialty: {{specialty}}
Service: {{service}}
Doctor: {{doctor}}
Date and time:
Choose an appointment time
{{form.date | setTime(form.time) | dateTimeFormatted}}
Date of birth: {{age | dateFormatted}}
{{confirmWarning}}
{{appointmentReply}}
By clicking “Sign up”, I accept the terms of the user agreement, the provisions on the protection of personal data and give my consent to the processing of personal data.
In order to pass the mandatory registration, you must come to the registration desk 10 minutes before your appointment with your passport.
If the patient is a minor (children under 18), it is mandatory to be accompanied by one of the parents with the presentation of his passport and birth certificate of the child.
Relatives and third parties accompanying a minor must have a notarized consent of the parents or legal representatives.
If you have made an appointment with a coloproctologist, please read the information about preparing for an appointment
The price of the consultation includes:
History taking, preliminary diagnosis and examination. All additional doctor’s manipulations at the appointment are paid according to the price list.
If you change your mind, please unsubscribe from the appointment by phone +7 (812) 435-55-55
The price of the consultation includes:
History taking, preliminary diagnosis and examination appointment.
All additional doctor’s manipulations at the appointment are paid according to the price list.
If you change your mind, please unsubscribe from the appointment using your Personal Account or by phone +7 (812) 435-55-55.
Are you sure you want to stop recording?
If you have any questions, call us at +7 (812) 435-55-55
Are you sure you want to change the current entry?
If you have any questions, call us at +7 (812) 435-55-55
You are subject to some restrictions on online booking.
Appointment possible via contact center.
You can sign up by phone +7 (812) 435-55-55
The specialist does not see patients of the specified age. To register please fill out the form below and you will be contacted.
Make an appointment
Would you like us to call you
?
Name
Telephone
By clicking on the button, you consent
to the processing of your personal data
You will be contacted to confirm your application.
information about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of diseases
Enrollment is only possible through the contact center.
To register, fill out the form below and you will be contacted.
You are enrolling:
Clinic: {{department}}
Specialty: {{specialty}}
Service: {{service}}
Doctor: {{doctor}}
Date and time:
Choose an appointment time
{{form.date | setTime(form.time) | dateTimeFormatted}}
Date of birth: {{age | dateFormatted}}
{{confirmWarning}}
{{appointmentReply}}
By clicking “Sign up”, I accept the terms of the user agreement, the provisions on the protection of personal data and give my consent to the processing of personal data.
In order to pass the mandatory registration, you must come to the registration desk 10 minutes before your appointment with your passport.
If the patient is a minor (children under 18), it is mandatory to be accompanied by one of the parents with the presentation of his passport and birth certificate of the child.
Relatives and third parties accompanying a minor must have a notarized consent of the parents or legal representatives.
If you have booked an appointment with a coloproctologist, please read the information on preparing for an appointment
The price of the consultation includes:
History taking, preliminary diagnosis and examination appointment. All additional doctor’s manipulations at the appointment are paid according to the price list.
If you change your mind, please unsubscribe from the appointment by phone +7 (812) 435-55-55
The price of the consultation includes:
History taking, preliminary diagnosis and examination appointment.