Fungal and non-fungal toenail diseases - symptoms and characteristic signs, treatment methods. Dystrophy of the nail plate photo

A person's nail can tell about the state of health. The disease of the nail plates is called "onychodystrophy".

So called trophic disorders in the tissues of the nails.

Pathology can proceed independently, and also be a consequence of another disease.

Dystrophic manifestations can be expressed in different ways. It is necessary to consult a specialist in order to know what onychodystrophy is and to determine what provoked such a change.

The disease can affect the nail plate, its bed, the nail fold. Destruction is caused by disturbances in their nutrition, failure of metabolic processes.

Pathology is both hereditary and acquired.

Treatment of onychodystrophy is individual, since nail disease is provoked by various causes. The disease is quite common. According to statistics, it is observed in one out of every five people.

Types of onychodystrophy and symptoms

Since the causes of the disease are varied, so are its manifestations. Onychodystrophy is divided into separate types, each of which has its own symptoms.

The main types are described below.

Furrow of Beau Rail (furrows of Bo)

It is a transverse groove that crosses the surface of the nail plates. Lines stretch from one side roller to another. This pathology is one of the most common.

According to the depth of Bo's furrows, the severity of damage to the nail matrices is assessed. With a weak lesion, the line is superficial, and in severe cases it is deep and can divide the thickness of the nail plate into two halves. Under such conditions, the removed part of the plate loses contact with the nail bed over time, turns white and separates.

With periodic damage to the matrix, several furrows appear. They are located one after another, creating a wavy surface.

Longitudinal furrows

As well as transverse, they can be single (mainly in the central part of the plate), as well as in large numbers. This is the main manifestation of the longitudinal furrows. In the second case, the entire surface of the nail is occupied by lines.

Onychodystrophy of nails in children is most often manifested by the two types described above (as a result of measles, viral diseases).

Brittle nails

Refers to a common type of dystrophy, occurs mostly in women. Most often, the free edge of the nail plate breaks.

Separation occurs completely or only collapses upper layer, leaving a torn, fringe-like edge.

Orihorexis

The nail splits in the longitudinal direction. This pathology appears mainly in the elderly.

Onychoshisis

Wedging of the nail occurs in a transverse manner. A feature of this type of dystrophy is the normal growth of the nail plate to the free edge. It is followed by splitting into two, three layers and more. The nail either breaks off or continues to grow in the form of several thinned plates.

Onycholysis

The whole nail plate loses contact with the bed. Rejection begins at the open edge and spreads over time towards the lunula of the nail. Usually no more than half of the nail plate is separated. The lagging part remains smooth, but already whitish-gray in color. An exception is fungal onycholysis or bacterial origin, at which the deformation of the plates occurs, their color changes.

Onychomadesis

The whole nail plate is also separated, but rejection begins from the proximal nail - opposite to the free edge. This type onychodystrophy is much less common than the previous one. It is pronounced, may be accompanied by inflammatory and painful reactions. The thumbs and toes are more likely to be rejected.

It is manifested by the appearance of small dents on the surface of the nail plate, like a thimble. The number of holes varies widely. Their depth can be insignificant (for example, with eczema) or deep (syphilis, psoriasis).

Koilonychia

An impression is formed like a saucer, spoon or bowl. The nail plate, as a rule, remains smooth, of standard thickness. The cavity mainly appears on the 2nd and 3rd fingers of the hands.

Senile nails

The nail becomes dull, becomes grayish or yellowish. Longitudinal furrows appear; with age, their number and depth increase.

Onychogryphosis

Nails thicken significantly, hypertrophy, bend and become excessively hard. The color of the nail plate changes to yellow, dirty brown or almost black. The individual nail plates of the feet are mainly affected.

The disease is characterized by a change in the shape of the nail plate, which becomes domed, and its hardness is often lost. The tips of the fingers become rounded, over time they take on the appearance of drumsticks.

Causes

Onychodystrophy causes malnutrition at the cellular level. As a result, the nail grows incorrectly. The most common causes of pathology include the following:

• consequences of skin diseases (psoriasis, eczema, etc.);
• vitamin deficiency and lack of minerals (vitamins A, B2, minerals - sulfur and calcium are of particular importance);
• cardiovascular diseases;
• diseases of the respiratory system, liver, gallbladder;
• disorders in the endocrine system;
• serious injuries of a mental and emotional nature;
• mechanical and chemical damage to nails;
• intoxication of the body;
• hereditary pathologies;
• infectious diseases (especially bacterial and fungal nature).

It is possible to predict the occurrence of onychodystrophy in patients suffering from tuberculosis. Hippocratic nails were considered his characteristic symptom before the appearance of more modern methods diagnostics.

Pregnant women also fall into the risk group, in whom the lack of nutrition of the nail plates occurs as a result of hormonal changes in the body with the priority of giving nutrients to the unborn child.

Nails can become sore as a result of injury to the fingers. But besides this, they are severely damaged by chemically active substances used in manicure and pedicure. This is worth remembering for girls using acetone, xylene, varnishes based on organic solvents.

In half of the cases, the “culprit” of the pathology is nail fungus. Significantly increases the likelihood of damage after infectious diseases.

Diagnostics

Examination of the nail plates and taking a general history will allow an experienced dermatologist to make the correct diagnosis. Usually, scraping of the nail tissue is done for fungi, since they are the most common provocateurs of the disease. If the fungal nature of the pathology is confirmed, it would be useful to consult a mycologist.

Diagnostics also includes methods such as:

• confocal microscopy;
• dermatoscopy;
• blood test for alkaline phosphatase activity.

Since onychodystrophy can cause pathologies of various organs, effective treatment possible only after identifying the root cause.

Treatment of the disease

Delay in seeking medical help will negatively affect the course of the disease. Masking the unsightly appearance of nails with the help of varnishes is especially dangerous. With the lack of the ability of the nail to "breathe", the destructive processes only get worse.

Self-treatment without consulting a specialist is also a bad decision. Incorrect determination of the causes, incorrect dosage and selection of therapeutic drugs will complicate the situation.

Treatment of onychodystrophy must be carried out in a complex manner, taking into account the characteristics of the patient's body. Therapy should be aimed at eliminating the cause of the pathology, restoring metabolic processes in the nail itself and its surrounding tissues.

Therefore, all activities are carried out only after consultation with a qualified doctor. Even such difficult cases as onychomadesis respond with a favorable outcome to treatment started in a timely manner.

To ensure the supply of nutrients, drugs are used that improve capillary circulation and increase the strength of blood vessels. In parallel, physiotherapy and massages are prescribed.

Ensuring proper nutrition of the nails is facilitated by the intake of vitamins with minerals, amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids. For the same purpose, the patient is prescribed special diet. The use of pure edible gelatin is effective. It is also practiced the appointment of restorative and reinforcing immune system funds.

Onychodystrophy of the nails requires, among other things, local treatment. It includes a number of procedures in the form of:

1. Hot baths with additives and sea ​​salt and essential oils.
2. Applications of warm wax, paraffin, ozocerite, therapeutic mud (they are applied in such a way as to cover the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe roller and nail plate, as well as the skin around).
3. Iontophoresis.
4. Diathema.
5. Phonophoresis.
6. The use of keratolic patches to remove dead areas and layers of damaged nail plates.
7. Ointment with nutrients (vitamins, minerals).

In the case of emotional disorders, the main treatment is the use of drugs that calm the nervous system, conducting psychological conversations.

One of the physiotherapeutic methods is hardware medical manicure. It contributes to the best passage of medicinal substances.

If the disease is fungal in nature, the attending physician selects antimycotic drugs.

Most often it is a cream or ointment. by the most effective way elimination of fungi in the nail area is considered a course of laser therapy.

Treatment is also practiced with the following folk remedies:

• iodine solution, currant or cranberry juice is rubbed into the nail plate daily;
• compresses are made with kombucha (it is applied with thin plates, which are wrapped in cellophane for fixation, in the morning the nails are washed and iodine is applied);
• the fingertips are immersed in melted wax, then cotton-based gloves are put on (it is advisable to carry out the procedure before going to bed).

Prevention

To prevent the occurrence of onychodystrophy, it is necessary to exclude its root causes. It is necessary to protect the nail plates from injuries, aggressive effects cosmetics, household chemicals. Avoid stressful situations.

Protect yourself from nail pathology will help balanced diet. For prevention, you need to take complexes of vitamins and minerals.

Since nail plate dystrophy is often associated with diseases of the internal organs, their treatment will prevent its development.

It is unacceptable to hide emerging nail defects under varnish. It is important for children to instill the rules of personal hygiene in time.

How many psychological problems, what physical discomfort occurs in a person when unpleasant symptoms appear! Toenail diseases cause an external change in the plate and surrounding tissues, have a variety of causes and symptoms, and require a qualified approach to treatment. It is useful to understand why pathologies arise, how they manifest themselves with different diagnoses, what methods exist to counter the disease.

What is toenail disease

A sign of good health is a smooth, shiny, pale pink toenail. Unfortunately, damage occurs at any age and is a symptom of serious problems in the body. The situation is triggered by:

• infectious fungal infections;
• diseases caused by disruption of the endocrine, nervous system;
• birth defects;
• trauma;
• heredity;
• malnutrition;
• poor quality care;
• smoking;
• infectious, skin diseases;
• chemical substances;
• avitaminosis.

Dermatologists identify the main diseases of the toenails. One group is caused by fungal and bacterial infections. The other part includes pathologies:

• dyschromia - discoloration of the nail plate;
• ingrown nails into the skin;
• injury;
• splitting, delamination of the surface;
• deformation, the appearance of furrows;
• nail dystrophy;
• the formation of hematomas;
• change in shape and size;
• plate rejection.

What diseases are toenails talking about

Experienced specialists in the appearance of the nail plates can diagnose diseases, note problems that appear in the patient's body. Often, pathologies are indicated by a change in the color of the toenail. There are health problems depending on the color:

• yellowish tint, with blue color near the bed - diabetes mellitus;
• white - liver disease;
• blue color - oxygen starvation;
• pale - evidence of anemia, impaired renal function;
• the cause of thickening, slow growth, yellow tint is lung disease.

Chinese doctors use toenail diagnostics for early detection of diseases:

• thin plate, raised edges - evidence of iron deficiency;
• cracking, fragility - problems with the thyroid gland;
• the disease affects the region - onychoshisis;
• white blotches - zinc deficiency, arthritis, nail bed injuries;
• red - heart problems, hemorrhagic stroke, hypertensive crisis;
• black - fungal infection, melanoma, soft tissue injury;
• brown dots- manifestation of psoriasis, lack of protein;
• yellow - pathology of the lymphatic system.

Nail fungus

One of the serious reasons why there are problems with toenails is a fungal infection. The infectious disease onychomycosis is characterized by the rapid spread of pathogenic microorganisms. In advanced form, the pathology requires long-term treatment. The fungus thrives in conditions of high temperature and humidity. The cause of the appearance of pathology on the legs are:

• non-compliance with personal hygiene in the pool, sauna;
• using someone else's shoes;
• work in rooms with adverse conditions;
• age-related changes;
• disease endocrine system.

The development of a fungal infection is provoked by problems with blood circulation in the lower extremities, metabolic disorders, and hormonal disruptions. The main causative agents of infections are three types of fungi, each has its own symptoms of the disease and requires a special approach to treatment. Damage to the toenails is caused by:

• mold microorganisms;
• candida - yeast;
• dermatophytes.

Signs of toenail fungus

Infection caused by pathogenic fungal microorganisms has pronounced symptoms. Symptoms of the disease depend on the type of pathogen, but there are General characteristics pathological changes. These include:

• the appearance of thickening;
• cracking;
• discoloration of the nail plate on the legs;
• fragility;
• stratification of the nail;
• the defeat of the surrounding skin with redness, burning, itching.

On the early stages diseases of the plate become dull, shine is lost, spots of a yellowish tint appear. With timely access to a dermatologist, a quick cure occurs. As the fungus progresses on the legs, it is observed:

• changing the color of the surface to darker - brown, black;
• the appearance of tuberosity;
• plane deformations;
• redness of the roller;
• tissue inflammation;
• complete destruction of the nail plate.

Treatment

It is a mistake to assume that a fungal infection on the legs will go away on its own. It is unacceptable to self-medicate. Only a dermatologist, having identified the pathogen, having made the correct diagnosis, can prescribe medications and a regimen of application. To combat fungal pathology on the legs, use:

• local external medicines in the form of sprays, ointments, solutions;
• antifungal drugs for oral administration - tablets, capsules;
• recipes traditional medicine- baths, compresses, lotions.

It is very important to consult a specialist when the first symptoms of nail disease appear. This will help you deal with the problem short term. Dermatologists prescribe:

• at an early stage of the disease - the application of Fukortsin liquid, the use of varnishes Cyclopirox, Loceryl;
• with the development of lesions - Terbinafine ointment, Ketoconazole tablets;
• to improve nutrition, activate blood circulation - physiotherapy;
• in a neglected case - removal of the nail.

Platonychia

This disease has a characteristic feature - a flat nail plate. Often there is a congenital pathology that cannot be cured. The disease affects all at once all the toes. The causes of platonychia are:

• heredity;
• violations of the heart;
• pathology of the endocrine system;
• protein starvation;
• liver disease;
• trauma;
• skin diseases;
• wrong manicure.

To cure this disease of the toenails, you need to find out the cause of the disease and eliminate it. Symptoms other than a flat surface must be considered:

• cyanotic pale shade - evidence of vegetative-vascular dystonia, gastritis, iron deficiency, circulatory disorders;
• fragility, dryness - lack of zinc, vitamins A, E, group B, the use of strict diets.

Hippocratic nails

With the development of this disease, there is an increase in the size of the terminal phalanx and toenails. Another name for the pathology is “drum fingers”. This disease is characterized by symptoms:

• an increase in the curvature of the nail bed;
• thickening of the soft tissues of the terminal phalanges;
• looseness of the skin at the base;
• elasticity of the plate surface during palpation.

To be cured, it is necessary to cope with the problem that caused the disease - the underlying disease. Experts believe that damage to the capillary bed of the lungs plays an important role in the formation of pathology. Symptoms of Hippocratic nails are observed in the presence of:

• tuberculosis;
• lung cancer;
• leukemia;
• pathologies of cardio-vascular system;
• chronic diseases lungs;
• cirrhosis of the liver;
• cystic fibrosis;
• cancer of the esophagus, thyroid gland;
• inflammatory bowel disease.

Cross striation of nails

This type of disease is characterized by the appearance of a transverse arcuate groove. It completely crosses the nail surface. The reasons for this change may be:

• inflammatory processes;
• infectious diseases;
• trauma to the nail roller on the legs with poor-quality pedicure;
• eczema;
• neuropsychiatric pathologies;
• psoriasis;
• systemic diseases;
• scarlet fever, measles in children.

To cope with the manifestation of pathology, it is necessary to exclude and prevent traumatic factors. It is important to cure diseases that provoke the occurrence of transverse striation. The severity of the ongoing processes can be judged by the signs:

• superficial furrow - a slight traumatic effect;
• deep damage to the plate, dividing it into two parts, malnutrition of the edge section - a serious, severe pathology;
• the presence of several furrows - regular injury.

Micronychia of the nail

If the patient has short nail plates on the legs, this is a sign of the development of micronichia. This disease is often diagnosed on the hands of patients who bite their nails. The cause of the appearance of changes in the legs are serious diseases. Only after a full course of their treatment can you get rid of unpleasant symptoms. Micronichia is a sign of diagnosis and accompanies such diseases:

• trophoneurosis;
• progressive scleroderma;
• Genuine epilepsy, provoked by a violation of metabolic processes.

Leukonychia

The main symptoms of this disease are the appearance of white stripes and spots on the nail surface. The ailment is manifested by the formation of small air bubbles between the layers of the plate. Causes of leukonychia:

• trauma;
• stress;
• diet abuse;
• poor quality pedicure;
• action chemicals;
• zinc deficiency;
• violation of the processes of keratinization of the plate;
• arsenic poisoning.

For the treatment of leukonychia on the legs, dermatologists recommend:

• take baths with medicinal herbs, essential oils, sea salt;
• eliminate factors that injure the surface of the plates;
• avoid frequent diets;
• use gloves when exposed to chemicals;
• change the master of manicure, pedicure;
• take vitamins and minerals.

Onycholysis

With this pathology, there is a complete or partial separation of the plate from the nail bed. With onycholysis, a grayish-white color change occurs. The causes of the disease are:

• fungal, bacterial infections;
• intoxication of the body;
• skin diseases - eczema, psoriasis;
• pathology of the nervous, cardiovascular system;
• endocrine disorders.

The main task in the treatment of onycholysis is to cope with the disease that provoked the disease. In parallel with this, dermatologists recommend:

• take iron, calcium preparations;
• use vitamin complexes;
• apply bandages with Synthomycin ointment to the affected area;
• use hot baths with essential oils;
• use limb massage.

Onychorrhexis

The disease often affects the hands than the legs, capturing individual fingers. Onychorrhexis is characterized by the appearance of a longitudinal splitting of the plate, starting from the free edge to the nail bed. Nail damage can be caused by:

• diseases of the endocrine system;
• mechanical injury;
• contact with chemicals - acids, alkalis;
• infections;
• skin pathologies.

The main task of treatment is to improve the nutrition of the nail plate. Doctors prescribe:

• drugs that improve blood microcirculation;
• physiotherapy - iontophoresis, diathermy;
• massage;
• hot baths with medicinal herbs, sea salt;
• taking vitamins;
• the use of unsaturated fatty acids;
• applications with wax, mud;
• the use of drugs that increase immunity.

Ingrown nail

With the development of inflammatory, infectious processes in the tissues of the finger, piercing of the skin can occur, in which the ingrown nail occurs. The disease is distinguished by the appearance of pain, redness, swelling, it is not excluded the release of pus, fever. The causes of pathology are:

• improper cutting of the nail;
• tight shoes;
• trauma;
• fungal attack.

To exclude the disease, you must:

• remove a piece of the plate ingrown into the skin;
• do warm baths with antibacterial agents;
• observe foot hygiene;
• use comfortable quality shoes without high heels;
• do the right pedicure;
• fight sweaty feet
• cure onychomycosis;
• in severe cases, remove part of the plate.

Atrophy

A characteristic feature of the disease is the thinning of the nail surfaces, a change in their shape, the appearance of longitudinal stripes. Tissues begin to split, peel, break. There are many reasons for this phenomenon to occur. These include:

• psoriasis;
• lichen planus;
• deficiency of vitamins A, C, B;
• lack of iron, phosphorus, chromium, calcium;
• plate injury;
• fungal infection;
• damage to peripheral nerves;
• impact chemicals;
• alcohol intoxication;
• the effect of drugs;
• diseases of the digestive system.

Treatment of atrophy involves diet. In complex advanced cases, the plate is removed. Dermatologists prescribe:

• drugs that reduce immunity in systemic diseases;
• vitamin complexes with microelements;
• sedative medications;
• polyunsaturated acids;
• antifungal agents;
• medicinal baths;
• yeast.

Chromonychia

The main feature of this disease is the staining of the nail surface in yellow. The causes of the phenomenon can be external and internal factors. Among them:

• liver disease;
• skin pathologies;
• diabetes;
• the presence of neoplasms;
• endocrine disorders;
• long-term medication;
• weakened immunity;
• exposure to chemicals;
• circulatory disorders;
• smoking;
• poor quality varnishes.

Treatment for chromonychia depends on the cause. Getting rid of the underlying disease that caused the disease will help to cope with the internal prerequisites of the pathology. External causes are quickly eliminated with the help of:

• refusal of decorative coating;
• taking a vitamin complex;
• rubbing lemon juice;
• the use of warm baths with sea salt and soda;
• massage with essential oils.

Big toe nail deformity

The disease, which is characterized by a change in the nail plates on the legs, has many causes. All of them are associated with external and internal influences. The appearance of deformation is provoked by such factors:

• injuries, mechanical damage;
• exposure to tight shoes;
• improper care- pedicure with severely cut cuticles;
• felon - nail eater;
• change in the structure of the plate under the influence of diseases;
• fungal infections - mycoses;
• exposure to chemicals;
• circulatory disorders in the legs.

To eliminate the deformation of the nail plates, it is necessary to establish the cause of the pathology. Treatment of the disease that caused the symptoms helps to permanently get rid of its manifestations. Signs of deformation are closely related to the causes of the disease:

• stratification - lack of B vitamins, calcium, thyroid problems;
• stripes, scallops - the consequences of stress, heredity;
• curvature - age-related changes, wrong shoes;
• thickening of the nail plate - a fungal infection;
• atrophy is a consequence of chronic diseases;
• the presence of point depressions - eczema, psoriasis.

Photo of onychorrhexis

Video

You can tell a lot from a person's hands.

Nails can tell about a person's health, diseases and problems.

The nail plates are the protection of the soft tissues of the fingers, they can also report all sorts of violations in the functioning of internal organs and systems.

By paying attention to the change in the nail in time, many diseases can be prevented and eliminated in time.

Introduction to fingernail deformity

bruised nail (hematoma) Nail anemia

A person's nail plates are a kind of indicator of his health, so we must not forget about their care and hygiene.

Deformation of the nails says a lot - diseases of the internal organs, violations in the work of the main body systems.

There are several main causes of deformation, in addition to diseases: mechanical injuries; anemia;

chemotherapy; excessive use of antibiotics;

bacterial infections and nail fungus; psoriasis; hereditary predisposition.

Chemotherapy candidiasis after taking antibiotics

The cause of the problem can also be determined by the shape of the deformation.

Types of deformation of the nail plate

Psoriasis

The deformation of the nail can look different and by its appearance it is possible to establish the causes of the occurrence.

If wavy grooves appear on the nail, then this may indicate malnutrition, a strict diet. Such nails can also indicate psychological disorders, frequent stress. "Waves" on the nails can also be a hereditary feature of a person.

If small pits appear on the nail, then this primarily indicates a lack of calcium in the body. It is worth reviewing the diet, adding healthy foods, eating more fresh vegetables, fruits, dairy products.

The stripes running across the nail indicate malnutrition, a heavily tightened diet. This appearance of the nail may indicate trophic disorders.

If the human body does not have enough vitamins and calcium, the nails can crumble and exfoliate. Anemia, disorders in the work of the thyroid gland will lead to the same results.

Nails can also be deformed due to mechanical injuries and damage.

With an injury to the nail plate, normal growth and formation of the nail may be disrupted, the thickness decreases, and a curvature appears.

A common cause of deformation of the nails on the hands is. You can get infected with this disease anywhere - in in public places, beaches, shower, nail or beauty salon.

The fungus is also transmitted from an infected person to a healthy one, so be careful!

Allergy from chemicals

A change in the structure of the nail can also be caused by prolonged and constant exposure to chemicals and harmful substances.

People of certain professions are subject to such deformation - hairdressers, dishwashers, cleaners.

Allergy to gel polishes is very common lately, as this type of manicure has become widespread recently.

Nail deformity can also be congenital, but such cases are rare. A similar problem is associated with defects in the ectoderm, with which intrauterine development the nail bed and plates begin to form.

Pathology of the shape of the nail on the hands

One or another deformation of the nail cannot 100% indicate the presence of a disease, but you should pay attention to it and be sure to consult a doctor for a full examination.

Changes in the nail plate can indicate the following pathologies:

The plate has the shape of a convex ball.

Such a deformation of the character for pulmonary osteoarthropathy, tuberculosis, lung cancer, heart disease, endocarditis, cirrhosis of the liver.

In rare cases, such nails can be a congenital feature of a person and are in no way associated with diseases.

Bird's-claw deformity- nail plates thicken and bend. Nails may take the form of a spiral, the color changes from yellow to brown.

Such a pathology can develop after strokes and injuries, burns, frostbite.

It occurs in old age and after generalized candidiasis.

koilonychia

Koilonychia- the nail acquires a spoon-shaped shape, the surface is concave, the structure and thickness remain unchanged.

Such a pathology occurs with prolonged exposure to acids and alkalis on the nail plate, as a result of injuries and damage.

Koilonychia can be caused by anemia, typhoid fever, Addison's disease.

transverse furrows

Platonychia- the nail plate is flat.

Such a pathology is more often congenital, but in rare cases it can occur as a result of exposure to occupational factors (chemicals).

Transverse furrows- appear after illnesses - influenza, jaundice, anorexia.

Such a “pattern” on the nails can indicate an improper and unbalanced diet, a lack of vitamins and nutrients.

leukonychia

Point deformation- appears with eczema, psoriasis, pulmonary tuberculosis.

Leukonychia- the appearance of white spots.

Can talk about malnutrition, as well as kidney disease.

Vitamins and changes in the nail plate

healthy eating

Deformation of the nails can also occur due to the banal reason for the lack of vitamins. The correct structure of the nails guarantees the presence of iron in the body in sufficient quantities. Deficiency can cause deformity.

Iron is found in sufficient quantities in the following foods:

• meat and poultry;
• liver;
• fish (tuna);
• legumes;
• cabbage and zucchini;
• fruit.

Remember that nutrition should be balanced, iron is absorbed better with foods that contain vitamin C and fluoride.

Lack of sulfur in the body can also lead to a problem with nails. Eat cabbage, onions, garlic, cereals. If necessary, you can purchase vitamin complexes at the pharmacy, which will help provide the body with the necessary vitamins and minerals.

Diagnosis of deformation of your nails

When the first signs of nail deformity appear, it is necessary to contact a specialist and undergo an examination. Initially, the causes of the problem should be identified and eliminated. Consult a dermatologist or a narrow-profile professional (podologist, mycologist). The doctor visually assesses the condition of the nails, if necessary, microscopy, spectral analysis can be prescribed. It is possible that the patient will need to consult other specialists - a surgeon, a cardiologist or others.

Treatment of nails takes place on an individual basis, depending on the disease, medications or medical procedures are prescribed. Nail treatment does not go quickly. The causes of the problem are eliminated, you need to wait until a new and healthy plate grows. It is much easier to prevent deformity than to deal with complex and lengthy treatment afterward.

Hand nail prevention

Healthy and beautiful nails look attractive. In order for the nail plate to grow even and healthy, it is necessary to carefully review the diet. Give preference to healthy food, fruits and fresh vegetables. You should not get carried away with diets and severely restrict yourself in nutrition, this approach harms your health and beauty.

Nails need to be taken care of properly. If possible, the manicure procedure should be trusted to professionals. In the salons you can use such services as paraffin therapy, massage, hardware manicure.

At home, you can make nail baths with herbal decoctions, sea salt, or other useful ingredients. Take mineral-vitamin complexes, during the treatment of nails, decorative varnishes, extensions and polishing of nails should be abandoned.

If you work in a hazardous industry, constantly come into contact with harmful chemicals and drugs, do not forget to use protective gloves.

Treatment at home

Self-medication is by no means recommended! Remember that nail deformity can be just a symptom of a dangerous disease, so you need to urgently contact a specialist and undergo an examination.

If the deformation of the nails is associated with aesthetic problems, then in this case at home you can help. Do it, you can add sea salt, soda, essential oils, herbs. Such procedures improve blood circulation, provide good growth nails. You can use special medical varnishes.

During treatment, you should not get carried away with decorative nail polishes, they do not hide, but only emphasize the shortcomings. Also, women should remember that nail extension also leads to deformation of the plate and subsequent problems. Do not get carried away and polishing nails, many people think that such a procedure will help to quickly align the deformed nail. You can polish, but not more than once a month.

Tips from professional masters when deforming nails

To help in the treatment and get rid of the problem faster, professionals give several recommendations on:

• do regular salt and paraffin baths;
• lubricate your nails with lemon juice;
• take calcium supplements;
• do not forget to use special creams and balms for hands;
• treat with caution home manicure, avoid too sharp tools, they can damage the plate.

Nails are a reflection of our health. Do not self-medicate and take any measures before it is not found true reason Problems. Do not forget that any self-treatment, even seemingly completely harmless, may not only not bring the desired positive results, but will also harm your nails and the health of the body as a whole.

Nail damage can be with fungal infections, as well as many diseases of internal organs, metabolic and neurotrophic disorders.

From this article, you will learn the main causes of nail disease in children, how nail disease in children is treated, and what preventive measures you can take at home to protect your child from nail disease.

Causes of nail disease

Paronychia - a disease of the nails

Paronychia is an infection of the nail folds caused by streptococci. Against the background of hyperemia, blisters and edema appear, subsequently erosion develops, and in the future - layering of staphylococcal infection. In some cases, regional lymphadenitis is possible.

The cause of nail disease in a child: non-compliance with the rules for caring for newborns.

Pemphigus - a disease of the nails

Pemphigus is a disease of unknown etiology, characterized by the appearance of blisters and erosions on the mucous membranes and skin. The benign form is characterized by the appearance of vesicles and small blisters (up to 0.5–1 cm in diameter) with serous-purulent contents against the background of erythematous spots. Bubbles may be different stages development, have a slightly infiltrated base, a corolla of hyperemia is noted around the bladder, they are usually localized on the skin of the lower half of the abdomen, near the navel, on the limbs, in natural folds.

The blistering may continue for several days. It is characteristic that surface erosions appear on the site of the former bubbles, but then crusts do not form. The condition of newborns may not be disturbed or be moderate. It is possible to increase body temperature to subfebrile. Intoxication in this form of the disease is usually absent, however, children may become restless or lethargic. There is no increase in body weight. With timely treatment, recovery occurs within 1 to 2 weeks from the onset of the disease.

Purulent lesions of the skin and nails in children require mandatory treatment.

The malignant form of pemphigus in newborns is characterized by the appearance on the skin a large number flaccid blisters, mostly large sizes- up to 2 - 3 cm in diameter (such bubbles are called conflicts).

Symptoms of a malignant form of pemphigus: the skin between the individual blisters may slough off. The condition of children is severe, symptoms of intoxication are expressed. Body temperature rises to febrile. The appearance of the child resembles that of a patient with sepsis.

Major nail diseases

Koilonychia - spoon-shaped impressions of the nails, combined with their striation; occur when there is a deficiency of iron or chromium in the body.

The symptom of a thimble (point depressions on the surface of the nail plate) occurs in patients with psoriasis. Symptoms of nail disease in children: nails gradually become cloudy, acquire transverse or longitudinal striation, become thinner and atrophy (onycholysis).

A symptom of "watch glasses" is a pronounced (more than usual) bulge of the nails. Occurs with prolonged purulent processes in the lungs, subacute bacterial endocarditis, congenital heart disease, biliary cirrhosis.

Leukonychia (the appearance of white spots or lines inside the nail) may be the result of trauma or dystrophy, with severe chronic somatic diseases.

The syndrome of "yellow nails" develops in children after respiratory diseases: the growth of nails slows down, their total or partial yellow or yellow-green coloration and transverse striation appear.

Onychogryphosis ("clawed" nails) is the result of their congenital dystrophy.

Spot hemorrhages under the nails, in the nail bed occur with thrombovasculitis, for example, with SLE.

With congenital ectodermal dysplasia, the nails may be absent or deformed, underdeveloped.

Inflammatory edema and redness of the skin around the periungual fold are characteristic of paronychia.

Damage to the nails as a result of their constant biting is observed in neuroses, states of mental tension.

At fungal infection the following symptoms of nail disease in children are observed: deformation of the nails, the appearance of small pits and cracks on them. They become cloudy, yellow, thicken, sometimes separated from the nail bed.

Loss of the nail occurs with the formation of a hematoma of the nail bed (traumatic origin), porphyria (nails acquire a reddish tint), acrodynia, a dystrophic form of epidermolysis.

Treatment of nail disease

If you find atypical formations and injuries on the nails of a child, then you need to see a doctor as soon as possible. For starters, you should contact a pediatrician, he will refer you to a mycologist who deals with fungal diseases and tell you how to get rid of nail fungus in your child.

How to get rid of nail fungus at home?

The first thing to do in treating nail disease is to eliminate all likely sources of fungus at home. Throw away all the shoes that you can, thoroughly disinfect the rest. Baby socks and tights should be washed and ironed carefully. The apartment and the baby's room must be thoroughly washed and treated with serious disinfectants.

As a preventive measure, antifungal treatment will need to be given to the whole family. This measure is absolutely mandatory. Without it, any treatment is simply useless.

Next, the doctor will offer you ointments and a course of medicines to treat the fungus at home, inside and out. For convenience, do the following. Green mark the real root of the nail. Treat your nails with ointment until the strip grows back. As a prophylaxis at home, all nails are processed, even those that are not affected. In addition, it is recommended that you treat your nails until they grow three normal lengths nail.

It is recommended to start active treatment of the fungus at home after you find out what kind of fungus and whether the fungus struck the baby's nails. Otherwise, you will torment your child with procedures in vain, when it is possible for him, there are simply not enough vitamins.

Treatment of nail fungus folk remedies

To treat nail fungus, external therapy can also be performed. Do hand baths with sea salt every three days. To do this, dilute a teaspoon of sea salt in a mug or a special bath with warm water and lower your baby's hands there. Bath time 15 - 20 minutes.

After it, it is worth lubricating hands and nails with baby cream. Rub it with light massage movements. This will protect your hands from drying out, and improve blood circulation, which is important for normal nail growth.

You can use folk methods of treating nail diseases. Particularly garlic. Grate the garlic on a fine grater and mix it with butter. Apply this ointment to your child's nails. Let's stay the mixture on the nails for at least 10 - 15 minutes a day.

It is worth using tea tree oil to treat nail disease. Work it on your nails and let it soak in completely.

It is worth reviewing the diet of the child. It is possible to increase the potential vitamin base with the help of nutritional supplements, vitamins in tablets, or by improving the quality and variety of food. More fish, more fermented milk products, and vegetables. Reduce your consumption of potatoes, and eliminate processed foods from your diet.

To get rid of nail fungus at home, it is very useful to increase the content of vitamin E in the body. To do this, replace animal fats with sesame or olive oil. Introduce to the diet pills with fish oil, or another preparation that would contain liquid vitamin E.

You must understand that the main thing is not the result, but the consequence. It is not difficult to figure out how to grow nails for a child. It is difficult to solve the problem of vitamin and microelement deficiency in the baby's body. Nails, this is only the beginning, then much more serious disorders in the baby's body can begin. Save his health, do everything possible so that he has enough of everything.

Fungal infection of the skin

It happens that harmful microorganisms and fungi enter the damaged area on the skin. If the vesicle is surrounded by a red halo, opens and dries up, forming a yellow crust, this is possibly impetigo - a purulent skin lesion caused by staphylococci or streptococci. Pyoderma tends to spread to healthy areas of the skin, and therefore requires immediate treatment.

The most striking symptom of the fungus is the appearance on the skin of reddish spots oval or round shape with fringed edges or rashes with white pustules.

Treatment of a fungal infection in children

Observing the general hygiene rules, also process secondary morphological elements in the lesions. Alcoholic solutions of aniline dyes (2% solution of brilliant green, 2% solution of methylene blue, 2-5% solution of potassium permanganate) and external medicines containing antibiotics are effective in the treatment of fungus: licacin gel, 1% dalacin T gel, 2% bactroban ointment, baneocin ointment, lincomycin, neomycin, erythromycin ointments and pastes.

External preparations containing antibiotics are applied 1-2 times a day to get rid of the fungus.

In the presence of a fungal skin infection, clotrimazole, nystatin ointment, citrosept, mycospor, etc. are indicated. Since purulent and fungal infection indicate a decrease in immunity, treatment should be comprehensive. There is a phasing of medical appointments and procedures when the inflammatory process subsides.

These tiny nails are scary to touch - let alone clean or trim! But it is simply necessary to take care of them in order to avoid possible problems.

What is the norm?

It is considered normal when a baby is born already with fingernails and even with a small “manicure”. The shape and quality of nails depend on hereditary factors and the individual situation, but they should be pinkish in color, have a smooth surface and a natural shine. Rapid nail growth small child- the norm, they need to be cut every 4 days.

Why does a child's nails exfoliate?

Such phenomena can occur for several reasons, for example:

• Tight shoes;
• The child bites his nails;
• Not enough minerals and vitamins;
• neuroses;
• Failures in the mode of the day, overwork;
• Nail fungus;
• In the body - metabolic disorders, anemia, etc.

If you notice exfoliating nails in a baby, you need to establish the cause. And if parents are able to cope with tight shoes, lack of vitamins, then last reasons in the list require a visit to the doctor.

What foods improve the condition of exfoliating nails?

Products containing calcium and iron favorably affect the condition of the nails: broccoli, green apples, dairy. May be taken as directed by a doctor.

Why do children have thin and concave nails?

With the birth of a child, the formation of the keratin plate of the nail does not stop: on the hands it develops up to 4 years, and on the legs - up to 10. That is why the first years the nails of the crumbs can be thin and concave - in medicine this phenomenon is called koilonychia. Koilonychia in preschoolers is normal and does not require treatment. Another thing is if the plate suddenly changed color, began to exfoliate, or spots appeared on it - in this case, you should consult a doctor.

How to understand that there is a fungus on the nail?

The fungus on the nail of a child - it is called onychomycosis - is quite difficult to notice at the initial stage, but there are some signs:

• The nail plate changes appearance;
• Redness or swelling of the fingertips;
• Nails exfoliate or crumble;
• Grooves appear on the plate;
• The plate is thickened;
• There is a flour coating on the plate.

Nail fungus is an insidious disease. It seems to be not so noticeable, but it will affect the nail until it completely destroys it. That is why, if you find the above signs, you need to contact a dermatologist.

What to do if the nail is ingrown?

An ingrown toenail, or onychocryptosis, is most commonly seen in thumb legs. This happens due to improper cutting of the nail, injuries and bruises, genetic predispositions, diseases of the nail, and also due to improperly selected shoes or clubfoot, a child. There is pain, swelling, redness. If nothing is done, then a purulent wound will form.

If you find such problems in the baby at the initial stage, then try softening the skin (make a bath), then slightly raising the edges, cut off the ingrown tips. Then treat with an antiseptic, and put sterile cotton wool or a bandage under the edge of the plate. If this does not help, see a doctor. Today, to solve this problem, depending on the severity of the disease, various ointments and creams are used, a laser or a surgical operation can be prescribed.

How to cut nails correctly so that they do not grow in?

On the hands, nails should be cut in the shape of a crescent, and on the legs - in a straight line.

Is a blue nail bruised - is it scary?

it common problem because children run, fall, hit. As a result, the nail turns blue or blackens, and may even peel off completely. If a bruised nail is accompanied by the growth of a hematoma, the nail rises, deforms, separates, you should consult a doctor. If this is just a stain, then it is worth disinfecting it, applying a cold object to the nail, and after the pain subsides, wrap the finger tightly with a sterile bandage.