The health of your fingernails and toenails indicates your overall health. Nails, which are made up of layers of a hardened protein called keratin, function to protect and support the tissue of the fingers and toes. Many diseases, including lung, heart, kidney or liver diseases, cause visible changes to your nails. The nails are also susceptible to other disorders, such as infections, that are communicable, meaning they are able to be transmitted from one person to another.
Fungal Infections
The most common type of infection for nails, especially toenails, is a fungal infection, clinically known as onychomycosis. The fungus infects the nail bed by taking hold underneath the nail, and it can cause the nail to separate from the nail bed. The infection causes the nail to become darker and thicker and can produce a foul odor. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the other nails (including between fingers and toes), the skin or other people. Fungal infections also leave your nails susceptible to other infections, including bacterial or yeast infections.
Fungal infections typically spread to others through damp areas where people are likely to walk barefoot, such as swimming pools, showers and locker rooms.
Bacterial Infections
The skin folds around the nails are an ideal environment for bacteria. Bacteria typically infect the nails after an injury to the nail or the surrounding skin. The most common bacterial infection is caused by the Pseudomonas bacteria, which can infect between the nail plate and nail bed or between an artificial nail and the natural nail.
This infection causes the nail to turn green and softens the nail, and it can lead to a separation of the nail from the nail bed. Bacterial infections are highly contagious between individuals.
Viral Infections
Nails are susceptible to infections by viruses such as the herpes virus or human papillomavirus. Biting your nails can transmit the herpes virus from a cold sore to your nail, causing painful swelling and blisters near and even under the nail. The human papillomavirus causes warts, which can form under the nail (called periungal warts) that can interfere with the growth of the nail and cause it to change shape. These viral infections can be painful and may even limit the use of the infected finger or toe. Both of these viruses are highly infectious and can easily spread to others.
Treatment
If you notice any changes in your nails, seek advice from your doctor because infections left untreated can spread to other nails or other people and can become painful and debilitating. Fungal infections are typically treated with an antifungal cream, lotion or lacquer, but they may require oral medications to prevent recurring infections.
Bacterial infections are treated with oral antibiotics, and viral infections are treated with oral antiviral medication. Your doctor may also prescribe a topical steroid to reduce the pain and swelling caused by the infection.
Prevention
Communicable nail infections can be prevented. Keep your nails clean and well-groomed. Always clean and disinfect instruments used to cut your nails. If you frequent nail salons, be sure they disinfect their instruments between every client. Keep your nails dry, especially toenails, and avoid wearing tight hosiery that promotes moisture. Always wear shoes in public places. Most importantly, keep an eye on your nails; they can provide you with warning signs for a variety of diseases.
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