Barometers of Health

 

Toenails often serve as barometers of our health; they are diagnostic tools providing the initial signal of the presence or onset of systemic diseases. For example, the pitting of nails and increased nail thickness can be manifestations of psoriasis. Concavity—nails that are rounded inward instead of outward—can foretell iron deficiency. Some nail problems can be conservatively treated with topical or oral medications while others require partial or total removal of the nail. Any discolouration or infection on or about the nail should be evaluated by a podiatrist.

 

Fungal Nails

 

Fungal infection of the nail, or onychomycosis, is often ignored because the infection can be present for years without causing any pain. The disease is characterised by a progressive change in a toenail's quality and colour, which is often ugly and embarrassing.In reality, the condition is an infection underneath the surface of the nail caused by fungi. When the tiny organisms take hold, the nail often becomes darker in colour and foul smelling. Debris may collect beneath the nail plate, white marks frequently appear on the nail plate, and the infection is capable of spreading to other toenails, the skin, or even the fingernails. If ignored, the infection can spread and possibly impair one's ability to work or even walk. This happens because the resulting thicker nails are difficult to trim and make walking painful when wearing shoes. Onychomycosis can also be accompanied by a secondary bacterial or yeast infection in or about the nail plate.Because it is difficult to avoid contact with microscopic organisms like fungi, the toenails are especially vulnerable around damp areas where people are likely to be walking barefoot, such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers, for example. Injury to the nail bed may make it more susceptible to all types of infection, including fungal infection. Those who suffer from chronic diseases, such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or immune-deficiency conditions, are especially prone to fungal nails. Other contributing factors may be a history of athlete's foot and excessive perspiration.​

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Onychophosis

 

Onychophosis is a growth of the horny epithelium in the nail. This often causes a build up of "dead skin" under and around the nail.

 

Onychogryphosis

 

Onychogryphosis (ram's horn nails) is a general thickening of the nail/nails. It can often occur as a result of injury to the matrix such as dropping a brick on a toe, long term neglect (especially elongated nails), or a number of repetitive knocks such as those that occur with continuous use of poor fitting shoe wear. In addition to increased thickness and curvature of then nail, it may also become discolored with a brown tinge and may grow more quickly of one side than the other. When nails get too thick to cut, you may need regular nail care from a podiatrist to reduce the thickness of the nails and to help trim them back as required

 

Onycholysis

 

Onycholysis is the painless separation of the nail from the nail bed. Onycholysis can occur in response to illness, prolonged water exposure, skin diseases such as psoriasis, irritation from chemicals including alcohol, shellac, or nail beauty products, infections such as a tinea (onychomycosis), sunburn in photosensitive people, or the result of injury or repetitive trauma and irritation such as from tight shoes or high heels. In the event of all the nails being affected it can be a sign of iron deficiency or thyroid over-activity. It is also a complication of chemotherapy. Onycholysis should always be tended to as the loose portion of the nail can become a hive of activity for fungal, bacterial or yeast infections which will inhibit the nail from reattaching.

 

 

Changes in shape and texture

 

• Clubbing, or nails that curve down excessively around the fingertips is often associated with oxygen deprivation and lung, heart, or liver disease.

• Spooning (kolionychia - see above) or nails that grow upwards is often associated with iron or B12 deficiency.

• Pitting of the nails is associated with Psoriasis or trauma

• Grooves along the nail are often associated with kidney disorders, aging, and iron deficiency.

• Beading is often associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

• Ridges across the nail (Beau's lines) may indicate stress or a period of sickness where the nail has slowed or ceased growth for a short time.

• Flatness can indicate a B12 vitamin deficiency or Raynaud's Disease.

• Excessive ridges along the nail are often associated with arthritis.

• Short small beds are often associated with heart disease, but are usually just genetic.

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As podiatrists, we are dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of skin conditions that can affect the health and comfort of your feet. Some of the most common issues we encounter include athlete's foot, which is a fungal infection that can cause and discomfort, as well as plantar warts, which are growths caused by the human papillomavirus. Other conditions such as callouses and corns can be removed without any discomfort.  Additionally, we address fungal nail infections that can lead to discolored and brittle nails. Our primary goal is to provide effective and compassionate treatments that not only relieve discomfort but also restore the overall health of your feet. If you're experiencing any skin concerns or discomfort, we encourage you to reach out to us for professional care and guidance.