fbpx
Welcome to DMSI

Paynow

Patient Portal

Request Records

Here’s Why You May Be Suffering from Nail Abnormalities

Have you noticed a change in your nails? Are they brittle, show signs of fungus, or yellow? If so, you are experiencing nail abnormalities. Once you notice signs and symptoms that you may be suffering from nail abnormalities, you will want to reach out to a dermatologist at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute. They can help you learn more about the abnormality you may be experiencing and provide treatment options. Below is more about nail abnormalities and treatments the dermatologist may recommend.

What to Know About Nail Abnormalities

About Nail Abnormalities

Nails without abnormalities typically appear smooth and have similar, consistent coloring. Those with nail abnormalities will notice discoloration, changes in nail shape and nail thickness, swelling and pain around the nails. The nail abnormality symptoms will differ based on the cause and skin condition. Skin conditions that may cause nail abnormalities include beau’s lines, clubbing, spooning, mees’ lines, pitting, terry’s nails and yellow nails.

Types of Nail Abnormalities

There are many nail abnormalities that can occur and knowing their symptoms can help you determine the condition you are experiencing. Here are signs and symptoms to look for:

  • Beau’s Lines: Indented depression across the nail (may be caused from malnourishment)

  • Clubbing: Nails appear thick and curved (may be a result of low oxygen)

  • Spooning: Nails have raised ridges and look like a spoon (may be a result of low iron or heart disease)

  • Mees’ Lines: White lines appear on the nails (may be a sign of arsenic in the body)

  • Pitting: Small pits or depressions appear on the nails (often associated with psoriasis)

  • Terry’s Nails: Dark band on the tip of the nail (occurs as we age but may also be caused from liver disease or diabetes)

  • Yellow Nails: Thick nails with a yellow color (may occur from lymphedema or respiratory illnesses)

Treatment options for any of the above nail abnormalities are often the same but are based on the severity of your symptoms.

Nail Abnormality Treatment

It is important to take care of your nails as much as possible to avoid nail abnormalities from occurring. Some ways to do that are through not biting your nails, using nail clippers to cut them, keeping your nails clean and dry, and keeping them short to avoid breakage. If you do experience any nail abnormalities, treatment may include different medications. Topical medications are an option and can be applied directly to the nails. Intralesional therapies can help by being injected directly into the nail bed. Systemic medications such as retinoids may also be used which help the nails but also the rest of the body. Corticosteroid injections can be helpful, too. As a last resort, the nail can be removed allowing it to grow back. Though, it may have an unusual appearance.

Nail abnormalities can be something you choose to live with or something you choose to get treatment for. It depends on how bad your symptoms are, but a dermatologist should be consulted to help make that decision. If you are in Bloomington, Illinois or surrounding area, complete this form to get in touch with a dermatologist at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute.

Was this helpful?

We would love to meet you and get started on a solution!