Nails are often perceived solely as an aesthetic feature of our bodies, but they serve a vital function in protecting our fingertips. However, not everyone realizes that abnormal nails aren’t always synonymous with fungal infections. In fact, nails, like other organs, can exhibit abnormalities due to various factors, some local to the nails themselves, while others signal changes within the body.
Common Causes of Abnormal Nails Include:
1. Infections: Nails can become infected by bacteria, fungi, or viruses, although such cases are relatively infrequent.
2. Inflammation: Inflammation can affect the edges or base of the nails, leading to symptoms like swelling, redness, flaking, or thickening. These issues can either be specific nail disorders or symptoms of broader skin conditions like chronic paronychia, psoriasis, or lichen planus.
3. Tumors: Abnormal cell growth can occur in various parts of the body, including the nails. These growths may consist of normal or malignant cell types.
4. Age-Related Changes: As we age, our nails can undergo transformations, such as becoming brittle, prone to splitting, rough, thicker, or more curved.
5. External Factors: Trauma to the nails can result in issues like bleeding beneath the nail (subungual hematoma) or nail discoloration. Certain medications can also lead to nail color changes, such as nails turning blue under fluorescent light in individuals taking drugs like Favipiravir.
6. Systemic Health Conditions: Changes in the nails can also be indicative of underlying health issues, including liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, lung disease, or thyroid disorders, each manifesting specific nail characteristics.
It’s Important to Note:
Nail changes can occur for a multitude of reasons, including those that may:
✅ Resolve on their own without the need for treatment.
✅ Require proper treatment to restore nails to their former beauty.
✅ Serve as indicators of underlying systemic changes within the body.
Seeking Professional Guidance:
If you notice any abnormal changes in your nails, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional from the outset. Early diagnosis and proper care are essential in identifying the underlying cause and providing appropriate treatment.
Understanding the complexity of nail health goes beyond the surface, and by seeking expert guidance, you can ensure your nails not only look good but also function healthily.
Assoc. Prof. Premjit Juntongjin, MD