Nail Disorders: Diagnosis and Treatment Guide

Our nails may seem like a small part of our body, but they can reveal a great deal about our overall health. Nail changes such as discolouration, thickening, brittleness, or deformities might seem minor, but they can indicate underlying health conditions or infections that require medical attention.

In this blog, we will explore the most common nail disorders, their causes, diagnosis, and options for nail disorder treatment in Gurgaon. Whether you're dealing with recurring nail issues or want to recognize the early signs of trouble, this guide is your starting point toward healthier nails.

Understanding Nail Anatomy

To understand nail disorders, it's helpful to know the basic structure of a nail:

• Nail Plate: The hard, visible part of the nail.
• Nail Bed: The skin beneath the nail plate.
• Matrix: The part where new nail cells are produced.
• Cuticle: Protective layer at the nail base.
• Lunula: The small white crescent at the base of the nail.

Disorders can affect any part of this structure, leading to noticeable changes in nail health or appearance.

Common Nail Disorders and Their Causes

Here are some of the common nail disorders mentioned below: 

• Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection)

Common Symptoms: 

1. Yellow or brown discoloration
2. Thickened nails
3. Crumbling edges.

Causes: 

1. Fungal overgrowth due to warm 
2. Moist environments 
3. Poor hygiene.

Treatment: 

1. Antifungal creams, 
2. Oral antifungal medications, 
3. Laser therapy.

• Paronychia

Symptoms: 

1. Redness
2. Swelling, 
3. Pain around the nail fold.

Causes: 

1. Bacterial Infection 
2. Fungal infection from nail biting or manicures.

Treatment: 

1. Warm soaks 
2. Topical or oral antibiotics/antifungals, 
3. Drainage if pus is present.

• Psoriatic Nail Disease

Symptoms: 

1. Pitting, 
2. Discoloration, 
3. Thickening, 
4. Detachment from the nail bed.

Causes: 

1. Associated with psoriasis, 
2. An autoimmune skin condition.

Treatment: 

1. Topical Corticosteroids, 
2. Systemic therapy (biologics)
3. Phototherapy.

• Onycholysis

Symptoms: 

1. Nail detachment from the nail bed.

Causes: 

1. Trauma, 
2. Fungal Infections, 
3. Psoriasis
4. Certain medications.

Treatment: 

1. Identify and treat the underlying cause
2. Avoid irritants and trauma.

• Beau’s Lines

Symptoms: 

1. Horizontal grooves 
2. Indentations across the nail.

Causes: 

1. Systemic Illness
2. High Fever
3. Chemotherapy
4. Trauma.

Treatment: 

1. No treatment is needed; lines grow out as health recovers.

• Clubbing

Symptoms: 

1. Bulbous fingertips 
2. Curved nails.

Causes: 

1. Lung diseases such as COPD, lung cancer, heart disease, or inflammatory bowel disease.

Treatment: 

1. Manage the underlying systemic condition.

• Koilonychia (Spoon Nails)

Symptoms: 

1. Thin Nails
2. Concave nails 
3. Upward-curved nails.

Causes: 

1. Iron-deficiency anemia, 
2. Hypothyroidism, 
3. Hemochromatosis.

Treatment: 

1. Correct the underlying nutritional or medical condition.

Visit Estique Skin and Hair Clinic for expert care!

Nail disorders are more than cosmetic issues; they can be signals of underlying health problems that need attention. Whether it’s a simple fungal infection or a sign of systemic disease, recognising and addressing nail changes early can make a significant difference.

With proper diagnosis, consistent care, and, when necessary, medical treatment, you can restore the health and appearance of your nails. If you're concerned about your nail health, consult a dermatologist, Dr. Neha Sharma. For more information, book an appointment at the best skin clinic in Gurgaon, Estique Clinic.