Skip to main content

Common Nail Disorder Conditions and Treatments

Nail disorders are a broad category of illnesses that impair the look of one’s fingernails and toes. Your nails can disclose a lot about your health. Infections produced by bacteria, fungi, or viruses, as well as underlying illnesses and genetic ailments, can all induce nail abnormalities. If you’ve seen any unusual changes in your toes or fingernails, make an appointment with Dr. Jay Mehta, an experienced dermatologist. He is well-versed in detecting and treating nail diseases, and he can check your nails to establish the source of your problem. We’ll take the time to educate you on all of your treatment options at Arizona Skin so you can recover strong, healthy nails.

Causes of Nail Disorders

Nail diseases are frequently caused by fungal or bacterial infections, as well as viruses. Paronychia, ringworm, anemia, eczema, psoriasis, and athlete’s foot are some of the illnesses that damage the nails. Nail disorders can also be caused by an underlying condition such as diabetes, lung cancer, heart disease, thyroid problems, or liver problems.

Nail Abnormalities and Common Nail Diseases

Nail Fungus or Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis is a fungal nail infection that causes regions of white or yellow discoloration, nail thickening, nail separation from the nail bed, and brittle, crumbly, or ragged nails.

Psoriasis of the Nail

Psoriasis, an inflammatory condition that causes abnormal skin plaques, can also affect the nails. Nail pits, accumulation beneath the nail, nails detaching from the nail bed, and nail discoloration are all common symptoms of nail psoriasis.

Paronychia

A bacterial or fungal infection of the tissue surrounding the nail. This nail condition produces inflammation, redness, throbbing, and tenderness of the tissue around the nail on the finger or toe.

Nail Disorders Treatments

Dr. Mehta will do a thorough examination during your session to diagnose your nail disease and determine whether any underlying health issues need to be treated. He’ll next go over all of your therapy options based on your diagnosis. He may recommend the following medications to treat nail disorders:

Anti-inflammatory Creams

These topical lotions help to alleviate inflammation and redness.

Antibiotics

Bacterial nail infections are treated with topical antibiotic creams and oral medications.

Antifungal Medications 

When a nail condition is caused by a fungus, oral and topical antifungal medications are utilized to kill the fungus.

If you are concerned about the appearance or health of your fingernails or toenails, contact Dr. Mehta at Arizona Skin in Surprise, AZ at (623) 259-4372 or visit 11340 W Bell Rd Suite #127, Surprise, AZ 85378 to schedule an appointment.