A few of the many side effects of deformed toenails include discomfort, discoloration, and distention. It can be a challenge to diagnose the problem due to the variety of symptoms and reasons that determine why a toenail deforms. As a result, we at Belmont Anderson & Associates would like to share a few of the most common causes.
Toes Psoriasis
Psoriasis is the most common reason for toenail deformities in many cases. It most frequently affects areas near or on the elbows, knees, scalps and fingernails and is defined as a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that can affect the whole body. In patches on the skin, the disease causes itchiness, redness, and thick, dry scales. Psoriasis forces the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, to grow a new layer of skin every 3-4 days, where normally, regular skin growth should occur monthly. Uninhibited growth in toenails results in toenails being longer, thicker, and more pinkish than they should be. Though science has not solved the chemical component or how psoriasis originates, studies are pointing to congenial or genetic factors. Though treatments vary, the popular remedy is the use of a steroid-based creams that are rubbed directly onto the affected areas. Though psoriasis is present, it may or may not be the cause of toenail deformities.
Toe Fungal Infection
Many deformed toenails are due to a fungal infection. Because it causes the toenails to become thick or flaky, and brown, yellow, or black in coloring, this infection can be embarrassing. Due to growth on dead tissue such as fingernails and toenails, hair, and the skin, the manifestation can be a challenge to treat too. Creams can be difficult to treat the fungal infestation leading to treatment of pills for more effectiveness. Fungi requires moist and warm environments to grow. By applying the following tips, you can significantly reduce the odds of fungi growth on your toenails. Because the origins of these infections are clearer, unlike psoriasis, fungi are easier to treat.
– Dirty, damp, or wet from sweat or water socks or shoes should not be used.
– Invest exclusively in 100% cotton socks.
– In your socks and shoes, put over-the-counter antifungal foot powder
– Avoid wearing shoes that squash your toes together, such as stilettos or wing-tipped shoes.
Toe Injury
Injuries to your toes can easily cause toenail deformities. In extreme instances, severe physical damage to the cuticle of your toenail can prevent the nail from ever growing back again. Damaging specialized cells that comprises of the root of the nail can result in discoloration, swelling and irregular contouring of the nail plate. When the unnatural formation grows too long for you to bear, incorporate the following steps to trimming the nails:
1) When cutting the nail, be sure to follow the natural curvature of the toenail.
2) Never cut down the side of the nail.
3) Utilize surgical quality nail clippers.
4) Never use the same nail file or emery board on a healthy nail that you used on an infected nail to file your nails down.
Podiatrist Treatments
Though there are preventative measure you can take, a medical provider from Belmont Anderson & Associates can ensure proper diagnosis, treatment, and pain management if you discover you have deformed toenails. Call our office today to make your appointment.