Fingernail discoloration can be a sign of a nail infection. The condition can also occur from health problems and underlying medical conditions. The fingernails often provide signs of overall health and wellness. Chiropractic doctor and holistic health consultant Loretta Standley, of DrStandley.com, notes that changes in the fingernails often indicate deficiencies and illnesses in the body before other symptoms appear. A health care provider can assist in diagnosing and treating individual causes of fingernail discoloration.
Paronychia
Paronychia is an infection of the skin that surrounds the fingernail or toenail. The condition occurs when bacteria or fungus enters a cut or scrape in the skin. Those who habitually bite their nails, push back their cuticles and frequently expose their hands to water are more susceptible to the condition. MedlinePlus reports that bacterium causes the condition to occur suddenly, whereas fungal infections occur more slowly. Symptoms of paronychia include pain and redness around the nail, discoloration, ridging of the nail and pus formation near the nail. Treatment usually depends on severity of symptoms and whether the condition is acute or chronic.
Onychomycosis
Onychomycosis, or nail fungus, forms when fungus or yeast infects the fingernails or toenails. The condition can develop from nail trauma, immunodeficiency, swimming, psoriasis or any damage to the nails. Fingernail onychomycosis occurs most often from yeast infections, while dermatophyte fungus usually causes the condition on the toenails. SkinSight.com notes that fungal nail infections account for nearly all nail disorders. Symptoms of onychomycosis may include thickened nails, distorted nail shape, yellow or dark discoloration, and brittle nails. Onychomycosis can be hard to treat, but oral medications, topical medications and surgery can provide some relief.
Nail Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin problem that causes rapid skin cell production. Skin cell production normally takes a month between growth and shedding, but psoriasis causes production in just a few days. The condition occurs from faulty immune system responses. The common sites for psoriasis include the scalp, back, face, nails, palms and feet. Approximately 50 percent of people with psoriasis have changes in the fingernails and toenails, notes PsoriasisNet. When psoriasis affects the nails, it can cause a yellow or brown discoloration, separations of the nail bed, thickening of the nails, holes in the nails, and alterations in shape. Changes in the nails can be mild to severe, and damage can result in loss of the nails for some.
Member Comments