Nail trouble

SCIENTIFIC evidence shows that a number of people have problems with their nails. As many as 50 per cent of a given population suffers from one or more nail disorder. These include brittle nails, ingrowing toe nails, crush injuries and fungal infections.

Brittle nails: Nails are composed of keratinised cells and are formed in the nail beds which are covered by epidermis. The most common cause of brittle nail is the frequent use of acetone based nail polish removers. Repeated contact with water containing cleaning fluids or detergents can also cause brittle nails.

Prevention: Avoid acetone based nail polish removers. Use standard detergents.

Treatment: Calcium and vitamin preparations neither strengthen such nails nor cure the problem.

Ingrowing toenails: A common problem on the big toe. Happens when the nail grows into the skin. This evokes an inflammatory response, with swelling, redness and pain. There is also a risk of infection.

Prevention: Good nail care and hygiene. Wear correctly fitting shoes and socks.

Crushed nails: If the nail is crushed, blood collects under it. This causes severe pain as a result of increased pressure.

Prevention: Take care of your fingers and toes while using doors, windows and weights.

Treatment: The simplest way is to make a hole in the nail with a sharp sterilised needle or a clean, sharp knife, so the blood can drain out. This procedure is painful. The nail should be protected with a plaster to reduce the risk of infection.

Untreated crush injuries are painful for a long time. Eventually the nail comes off which will affect day to day activity. A new nail grows within six weeks to three months.

Fungal infections: Fungal infections are what affect nails most commonly. The infection causes a dull, yellowish discolouration of the nails, which thicken and tend to split. The infection initially affects the end or sides of the nail and then spreads inward until the entire nail plate is involved. A cheesy mass of disintegrating tissue forms under the nail.

Prevention: It is best never to borrow shoes or socks or walk barefoot in changing rooms, showers and saunas. The feet should always be dried as moisture promotes the spread of infection.

Treatment: Fungal infections are contagious, so good foot hygiene and nail care is important. Nails should be kept trim using a nail file. Severe cases are treated with specific anti-fungal agents.

Athlete's foot: As the name suggests, this fungal infection is indeed prevalent among athletes. The infection usually begins between the toes, and is manifested by redness, peeling of the skin, and sometimes irritation. The fungus thrives particularly on moist skin.

Prevention: Good foot hygiene is important. The feet should be washed frequently and dried thoroughly, especially between the toes. Change socks frequently. Wear ventilated shoes.

Treatment: The feet should be washed twice a day with soap and water and dried thoroughly, especially between the toes. After washing, a fungicidal medication should be applied in a thin layer to the affected area. Treatment should be continued for upto four weeks after the skin appears to be clear, in order to prevent a relapse. If irritation is a problem, a combined preparation of a fungicidal agent and a steroid can be used for a while.

GRACE HELINA

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