What Are Nail Disorders and How Do They Affect You?
Nail disorders encompass a variety of conditions that can affect the health, appearance, and function of your nails. These issues range from minor cosmetic concerns to conditions that cause significant discomfort or pain. Common nail disorders include fungal infections (onychomycosis), onycholysis (separation of the nail from the nail bed), and ingrown nails. Each condition presents unique symptoms and requires specific care to restore nail health.
Fungal infections often result in thickened, discolored, or brittle nails, while onycholysis is characterized by a detachment of the nail from the underlying nail bed, often caused by trauma, infection, or underlying medical conditions like psoriasis. Ingrown nails occur when the edges of a nail grow into the surrounding skin, leading to redness, swelling, and pain.
Our board-certified dermatologists use advanced diagnostic techniques to determine the cause of your nail condition and offer effective, individualized treatment plans.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Nail Disorders?
Nail disorders can present a range of symptoms depending on the condition, including:
Fungal Infections: Thickened, brittle, and discolored nails; sometimes accompanied by a foul odor.
Onycholysis: Pain, discoloration, and nail separation.
Ingrown Nails: Swelling, redness, and tenderness around the nail; potential pus or bleeding in severe cases.
What Causes the Most Common Nail Disorders?
Fungal Infections: Caused by fungi thriving in moist environments, often contracted from communal areas like locker rooms or pools.
Onycholysis: May result from trauma, repetitive pressure, or underlying medical conditions such as psoriasis or thyroid disorders.
Ingrown Nails: Caused by improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, or repetitive trauma to the toes.
How Can Nail Disorders Be Treated?
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition. Options include:
Fungal Infections:
Topical Antifungal Medications: Creams or solutions to combat mild fungal infections.
Oral Antifungal Medications: For more severe cases, medications such as terbinafine or itraconazole may be prescribed.
Laser Therapy: Advanced treatments, like the Cutera excel® V Laser, effectively target fungal infections without affecting surrounding tissue.
Onycholysis:
Addressing underlying causes such as psoriasis or anemia.
Moisturizers: To improve hydration and prevent further separation.
Debridement: Removal of damaged nail tissue by a professional.
Ingrown Nails:
Warm Soaks: To reduce swelling and discomfort.
Minor Surgical Procedures: Removal of part or all of the affected nail.
Topical Antibiotics: To prevent or treat infections.
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve the health and appearance of your nails.
Related Treatments
Restore Your Nail Health
At Summerlin Dermatology, our experts provide personalized care for a wide range of nail disorders. Whether you’re dealing with a fungal infection, onycholysis, or an ingrown nail, we’re here to help you achieve healthier nails and lasting relief.
Call us today at 702-243-4501 or Request an Appointment online to schedule your consultation.
Nail Disorders
Treatment for Nail Disorders
At Summerlin Dermatology, we understand that nail disorders can impact your comfort and confidence. Our comprehensive care addresses common issues such as fungal infections, onycholysis, and ingrown nails, with treatments tailored to your needs.