Are you putting your best foot -- and hand -- forward? Your nails are a reflection of your grooming
habits and lifestyle. But did you know that your nails may also reveal information about your health?
It’s true. Alterations in the appearance, shape, and texture of your nails can indicate an underlying
health condition. For example:
- Thickened nails may be a sign of psoriasis.
- Red nail beds may be a symptom of diabetes.
- Pale nail beds can indicate anemia.
- White nails have been associated with kidney disease.
Nail Care 101
Taking good care of your nails will help keep them healthy and give you the opportunity to inspect them.
If you have pain in the nail area or notice changes such as swelling of the skin next to the nails; white or black lines,
indentations, or ridges on the nails; or changes in the color or shape of the nails, consult your healthcare provider.
Good habits and a little nail-care know-how can help prevent many minor nail problems.
Best Nail-Pampering Practices
If you paint your nails, avoid using nail polish remover or nail hardeners more than once per week.
At salons, be sure manicure and pedicure tools are sterilized in an autoclave, a machine that uses high heat to kill bacteria and viruses. As an alternative, take your own set of tools to the salon.
To trim nails, cut straight across with sharp nail scissors or clippers. Slight rounding of the tips is fine,
but avoid filing nails into a point, which may cause weakening and make the nails more prone to damage.
Soak difficult-to-trim nails in warm salt water for 5 minutes before trimming.
Pay attention to the cuticle -- the seal between the nail and skin. Don’t clip or remove the cuticle, which can
leave the nail open to infection. Instead, gently push back the cuticle with an orangewood stick. Do this after
showering, when the cuticle is soft.
Combating Common Nail Problems
Fungal infections account for about 50% of all nail problems. Toenails are especially susceptible because they
are often in warm, moist environments conducive to fungus growth. Injuries to the nail bed will also make nails vulnerable
to infection.
Symptoms of fungal infection:
- Nail may separate from the nail bed.
- Debris may build up under the nail plate.
- Nail may appear thickened, brittle, or dull.
- Nail may appear discolored (yellow, green, brown, or black).
Fungal infections are relatively harmless, but if the infection causes you discomfort, pain, or embarrassment, see your healthcare
provider for treatment options.
Keeping your feet dry will help prevent fungal infections. Be sure to change socks frequently, and wear socks made of a breathable,
moisture-wicking material. Wear shower slippers around pools and in locker rooms, and thoroughly dry your feet after swimming or bathing.
In addition to fungal infections,
ingrown toenails are a common nail problem. Ingrown toenails occur when the sides or corners of a nail
grow into soft tissue instead of growing straight out. The condition can become very painful, especially if infection sets in.
Symptoms of ingrown toenails:
- Redness around the nail bed, especially the side of the nail
- Swelling around the nail bed
- Tenderness
- Pain
Typically, an ingrown toenail will grow out on its own. For pain relief, the nail can be soaked in warm salt water. Apply a topical antiseptic
and bandage the toe. For serious or very painful cases of ingrown toenail, a healthcare provider can remove the ingrown portion of the nail.
Prevention of ingrown toenails:
- Cut the nail straight across.
- Avoid wearing shoes that constrict the toes.
Good Nail Sense
Nails grow fairly slowly, so give your body time to heal if you experience injury to one of your nails. And remember that chronic nail pain or
changes in appearance warrant a visit with your doctor.
With a little care and attention to your nails, you’ll not only improve their appearance but also ensure that your nails remain healthy.
