Weak Finger Nails

The body creates fingernails and toenails with nonliving keratin cells. Keratin also goes into creating human hair, as well as animal hooves, horns and fur. Nail strength varies considerably among individuals. While variation is expected, external and internal factors play a role in fingernail strength, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Symptoms

Weak, brittle nails bend and break easily. Other symptoms include peeling, chipping and splitting. Some people experience pain while performing tasks with their fingers. Tenderness in the nail bed is also common.

Causes

Several conditions contribute to weak nails. Health issues such as thyroid disease, anemia and some medical treatments, including chemotherapy, weaken nails. Nail fungus and nail psoriasis eat away at the nail, causing it to weaken. Household and industrial chemicals, solvents, water and soaps can contribute to weak nails as well. Genetics and aging also play a role.

Prevention

According to MayoClinic.com, the best way to keep nails healthy and strong is to prevent injury to the nail. Avoid using your fingernails as tools or cleaning aids. Do not pick, pry or scratch with your nails. Wear gloves when you use cleaning agents. Do not bite your nails or the skin around your nails. Look out for signs of fungus, especially if you frequent nail salons. Keep your nails short and filed smoothly. Apply cuticle oil to your cuticles and nails daily, and use nonacetone nail polish remover.

Treatment

Keep fingernails short and square. Smooth and round the edges with a fingernail file, and use a nail hardener followed by a coat or two of nail polish. If you do not wear polish, protect your nails with a thin layer of petroleum jelly. Pay attention to your diet as well. A diet rich in protein helps strengthen weak nails, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. MayoClinic.com recommends taking 2.5 mg of biotin daily. If weakness is caused by a disease of the nail bed or a fungal infection, seek medical attention.

Prognosis

Most people see improvement in their nails with the proper treatment. In the absence of treatment, however, nail conditions can become progressively worse. Weak and brittle nails can chip, crack and split, causing pain and discomfort.