Discolored or ram’s horn nails may not only affect your physical appearance, but they can also be a sign of an underlying medical condition. If the underlying disease or infection is not treated, it may lead to a permanent deformity. The New York nail problems experts at Lumos Dermatology offer effective management treatments for nail problems to prevent progression and permanent deformation.
What nail problems can you experience?
Your nail’s shape, texture, and color can reveal crucial clues about your general health. Some of the nail problems you are likely to develop include:
- Greenish color
Green nail syndrome is a disorder due to a bacterium known as pseudomonas aeruginosa under your nail. This disorder is common in people who have their hands exposed to moist environments for a long daily. It can also occur associated with paronychia, the painless thickening of your proximal nail fold.
- Ram’s horn nails
This disorder is characterized by an overgrown nail on the big toe, that continually curls as it grows. The pin is usually too thick to be clipped with a regular nail cutter. This disorder usually runs through the family, and the signs typically become visible during puberty. The professional team at Lumos Dermatology offers various treatments that can help you manage this disorder. In case you experience swelling, pain, or redness on the surrounding skin in addition to the overgrown nail, you may have an infection.
- Dark streaks
The dark streaks under your nails may be a sign of melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer. If you notice a shady spot under your nail, inform your doctor for a thorough physical evaluation.
- Lifting of the nail
Your nail lifting from your nail bed may be a symptom of a fungal infection. Your nail can also lift due to psoriasis or a nail injury.
What happens during a nail evaluation?
During your appointment, the expert dermatologists at Lumos Dermatology perform thorough physical exams to determine the underlying cause of your nail problems. The team may also review your medical and family history, examine your skin and nails and discuss the signs and symptoms. They may also take a coat or nail sample for testing to determine if you have a mold, bacterial or fungal infection.
If nail disorders or injuries are left untreated, they can result in permanent deformity even after treatment. If you have diabetes, poor blood circulation, or AIDS and experience a nail injury, you may need immediate medical attention to prevent infection.
What are the available treatment options for nail problems?
The team at Lumos Dermatology offers personalized treatment plans depending on the underlying cause of your nail problem. Your treatment plan may include managing underlying medical conditions that may contribute to your nail problem or medications to treat an infection. The experts may also educate you on proper nail care, including nail and cuticle care techniques and hand hygiene to prevent nail infections.
Do not allow your nail problems to develop and become permanent deformities when effective nail treatments are available. Call the Lumos dermatology office for a comprehensive nail evaluation or book your spot online today.
Comments are closed.