Beyond their aesthetic value, nails serve as a vital sign of our internal well-being. Nail color, texture, or shape changes frequently indicate underlying medical conditions, infections, or dietary deficiencies. People of all ages are susceptible to common nail diseases. Maintaining strong and healthy nails requires an understanding of the causes, symptoms, and available treatments.Nails are more than just a cosmetic part of the body—they are an important indicator of our internal health. Changes in nail color, texture, or shape often signal underlying medical issues, infections, or nutritional deficiencies. Nail diseases are common and can affect people of all ages. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for maintaining strong and healthy nails.

This thorough guide describes the most prevalent nail diseases, their causes, how to recognize their symptoms, and the best ways to treat them.

Nail Diseases: What Are They?

Conditions affecting the nail plate, nail bed, or surrounding skin are referred to as nail diseases. Infections, trauma, malnutrition, systemic diseases, and poor nail care can all cause them. Depending on what causes them, nail problems can be either transient or persistent.

1. Onychomycosis, or nail fungus1. Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis)

One of the most common nail conditions is nail fungus. It is brought on by fungi that thrive in warm, damp places like shoes.

Reasons

• Sweating excessively
• Inadequate foot care
• Wet socks or shoes
• Using nail tools together
• Going barefoot in public pools or showers

Actions

• White, brown, or yellow discoloration
• brittle, crumbly, or thick nails
• Unpleasant smell
• The separation of the nail from the nail bed

Therapy

• Topical antifungal creams: Terbinafine, Clotrimazole
• Oral antifungal drugs: Terbinafine, Itraconazole
• Keep your nails dry and clean.
• Apply antifungal sprays or powders.
• Steer clear of sharing nail cutters.

Treatment for nail fungus can take weeks or months, depending on how severe it is.

2. Ingrown nails

When a toenail grows into the skin, it can cause an ingrown toenail, which is painful and inflammatory.

Factors

• Inappropriate nail cutting
• Putting on narrow or tight shoes
• Nail damage
• Curved nails by nature

Conditions

• Redness and swelling surrounding the nail
• Walking with a sharp pain
• In severe cases, pus or fluid discharge

Therapy

• Soak your feet in warm, salty water.
• To lift the nail edge, place cotton underneath it.
• Put on open-toed or soft shoes.
• A physician may surgically remove a portion of the nail in chronic cases.

3. Paronychia (infection of the nail folds)

A fungal or bacterial infection surrounding the nail fold is called paronychia.

Reasons

• Biting one’s nails
• Picking the skin around the nails
• Cleaning dishes without gloves
• Small cuts around the nail

Signs

• Swelling and redness
• Nail-related pain
• Pus development
• Warmth or compassion

Medication

• Two to three times a day, soak in warm water
• Antifungal or antibiotic creams
• If necessary, a physician may drain pus.
• Keeping hands clean and refraining from nail biting

4. Psoriasis of the nailshe nails

The autoimmune disease psoriasis is associated with nail psoriasis. It has an impact on both toenails and fingernails.

Reasons

• Immune system failure
• Psoriasis history in the family

Signs

• Pitting (tiny holes)
• Nails that are brittle or thick
• Patches of red or yellow
• Nail separation from the bed of nails

Medication

• Topical creams of steroids
• Creams containing vitamin D
• Light treatment
• Oral treatment in extreme circumstances

5. Nail Damage

Both short-term and long-term nail problems can result from physical trauma.

Reasons

• Footwear-related pressure
• Athletic injuries
• Things that are heavy and land on the nail

Signs

• Subungual hematoma, or bruises under the nail
• Pain and edema
• A nail could fall off.
• Deformity of the nails

Medication

• Use of an ice pack
• Relatives of pain
• shielding bandage
• letting the nail grow back on its own (four to six months for fingernails, six to twelve months for toenails)

6. Nails that break easily (Onychoschizia)

Dryness or a lack of nutrients cause brittle nails to peel and break easily.

Reasons

• Regular contact with water
• Acidic substances
• Deficiency in vitamins and minerals
• Dehydrated

Conditions

• Dividing nails
• Crackly, dry texture
• Soft and weak nails

Medication

• Supplemental biotin
• Moisturizers and oils for nails
• Gloves should be worn when cleaning
• Steer clear of nail polish removers with acetone bases

7. Discolored nails

Depending on the underlying problem, nails may turn yellow, white, green, or black.

Probable Reasons

• Infection by fungi
• The act of smoking
• Stains of nail polish
• Deficiencies in vitamins
• Accident
• Infections with bacteria

Medication

• Address the root cause
• Use antibacterial or antifungal drugs.
• Stay away from harsh nail polish.
• Boost nutrition and hydration

How to Avoid Diseases of the Nails

It takes good hygiene and maintenance to keep nails healthy. Observe these suggestions:

1. Practice good nail hygiene

To avoid infections, keep nails clean and trimmed on a regular basis.

2. Refrain from biting your nails

It exposes the skin to bacteria and harms the nail.

3. Maintain Dry Nails

Fungal growth is encouraged in moist environments.

4. Make Use of Clean Nails

Files, salon tools, and nail cutters should never be shared.

5. Put on Reputable Shoes

To avoid sweat accumulation, wear breathable shoes.

6. Consistently Moisturize

Weak nails can be strengthened by applying nourishing oils and creams.

7. Consume Nutritious Food

Protein, calcium, zinc, and biotin all contribute to stronger nails.

When to Consult a Physician

Consult a physician if you encounter:

• Extreme pain
• A malformed nail
• Hemorrhage or pus
• Nail growth is abnormal.
• Discoloration that persists

Early treatment guarantees a quicker recovery and avoids complications.

Summarization

Nail disorders are prevalent, but they can be controlled with early detection. Nail health can be restored with the right care and treatment, regardless of the problem—fungal infection, ingrown nails, or weak, brittle nails. Maintaining good hygiene, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding harmful habits are essential for strong and healthy nails.