Nail Disorders
Nail conditions can impact both physical health and self-confidence. We take a holistic approach to diagnose and treat nail issues, considering all possible causes and underlying health factors, such as thyroid problems, to address the root cause, not just the symptoms.
Common nail conditions we treat include:
Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis)
Cause: Fungal infection
Symptoms: Thickening, discoloration, brittleness, and crumbling of the nail.
Treatment: Topical or oral antifungal medications, laser treatment, or nail removal.
Nail Psoriasis
Cause: Psoriasis, an inflammatory condition that can affect the nails, with or without skin involvement.
Symptoms: Pitting, thickening, and separation of the nail from the nail bed.
Treatment: Topical steroids, vitamin D analogues, or other systemic therapies.
Nail Trauma
Cause: Injury to the nail bed or surrounding tissue.
Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and bleeding.
Treatment: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), pain management, and wound care.
Ingrown Toenails
Cause: Improper trimming, tight shoes, or genetic predisposition.
Symptoms: Redness, swelling, pain, and infection.
Treatment: Trimming, antibiotics, pain management, and in severe cases, surgical removal.
Paronychia
Cause: Bacterial or fungal infection usually in the setting of chronic exposure to water.
Symptoms: Redness, swelling, pain, and tenderness around the nail fold
Treatment: Topical or Oral antibiotics or antifungal medications. Topical steroids.
Nail Eczema (Dyshidrotic Eczema)
Cause: Allergic reaction or skin condition.
Symptoms: Blistering, itching, and cracking of the skin around the nail.
Treatment: Topical steroids, moisturizers, and avoidance of triggers.
Leukonychia (White Spots)
Cause: Minor trauma, nail biting, or nutritional deficiencies.
Symptoms: White spots or streaks on the nail.
Treatment: None required, as they often resolve on their own.
Koilonychia (Spoon-Shaped Nails)
Cause: Iron deficiency, anemia, or genetic conditions.
Symptoms: Concave or spoon-shaped nails.
Treatment: Addressing underlying nutritional deficiencies or genetic conditions.
Nail Lichen Planus
Cause: An inflammatory condition that can affect the nails and the inner lining of the mouth, with or without skin involvement.
Symptoms: Thinning, brittleness, and grooving/ridging of the nail.
Treatment: Topical steroids, systemic medications, or phototherapy.