Nail Disease

There are many types of nail disorders or nail disease. The most common is fungal infections and it usually affects the toe nail. With the correct treatment most nail diseases can be treated and a new healthy nail will regrow

The ways to notice nail disease are: discoloring or spots on the nail, if your fingers or toes become red and swollen, if you notice pits, ridges or scars, if lesions appear on the skin close to the nail, or if a black or brown appears on the nails. The most common cause of nail disease is infection, skin diseases, tumors (benign or malignant), and other diseases of the body.

There are various risk factors that can cause nail disease. If you have a family history of nail disease it is possible that you will also have the same type of problem. If you are exposed excessively to heat, humidity, and water you run a risk of contracting a nail infection that could lead to nail disease. Wearing shoes that are too tight can not just be uncomfortable, but is also a risk factor.

If your body goes through a chemical change that also can be the start of a bacteria change that could develop into infections or nail disease. Diabetes is a huge risk factor when talking about diseases of the nail. Skin disease, over manicuring, habits that may cause you to pick at the skin close to the nail is a risk factor for developing nail disease. People who have Human immunodeficiency are also at risk for developing nail disease.

If you have any of these symptoms or you do in fact develop a nail disease there are ways to cure most these types of infections. The infected nail can be removed. There are medications that your doctor can prescribe, some are taken by the mouth, and others are in cream form that can be applied to the infected nails.

If you do develop a nail disease, remember the nail will regrow and look normal again in most cases. Your fingernails take 4 to 6 months to regenerate while your toenails will take 8 to 12 months.

Preventing nail disease or soothing the symptoms comes in different forms. Eating properly for the health and well being of your body and nails is essential. Eat plenty of foods such as nuts, whole grains, legumes, seeds, fresh vegetables, sea vegetables, and cold water fish. Stay away from refined foods, alcohol, caffeine, and sugar.

The use of massage therapy on your hands can also help in the prevention of nail disease. When you massage your hands it helps with transporting nutrients to the nail bed. Washing and drying your hands when exposed to dirt, chemicals, or any type of debris will aid in the prevention of nail disease.