Inflammatory Nail diseases

What is an inflammatory nail disease?

An inflammatory nail disease refers to any condition that causes inflammation or irritation in or around the nails. These conditions can affect the appearance, texture, and health of your nails, leading to symptoms like redness, swelling, thickening, discolouration, or pain.

Inflammatory nail diseases can be complex and are caused by infections, autoimmune conditions, or skin disorders. If you notice changes in your nails that seem unusual or persistent, it’s important to seek advice from a dermatologist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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Types of inflammatory nail diseases

There are several types of inflammatory nail diseases, and they can vary from mild to severe. Some common examples include:

Fungal nail infection (Onychomycosis): One of the most common causes of nail issues, fungal infections can cause nails to become discoloured, thickened, brittle, or crumbly. This is often caused by exposure to fungi in warm, moist environments.
Psoriasis: This skin condition can affect the nails, leading to pitting (small dents in the nail surface), thickening, or discolouration. In severe cases, nails may become detached from the nail bed.
Eczema (Dermatitis): Eczema can cause inflammation and irritation around the nails, leading to redness, swelling, and itching. Over time, this can result in changes in nail appearance, such as thickening or splitting.
Lichen Planus: This condition can affect the nails, causing thinning, ridges, or even complete nail loss. It’s a rare but serious inflammatory condition that requires professional treatment.

Treatment of inflammatory nail diseases

Treatment for inflammatory nail diseases depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Some common treatment options include:

Topical medications: For mild cases of fungal infections or eczema, topical antifungal creams or corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Oral medications: For more persistent fungal nail infections or severe psoriasis, oral treatments may be necessary to target the infection or inflammation from within.
Nail care and hygiene: Good hygiene and proper nail care are key in preventing and managing nail diseases. Your dermatologist can provide advice on the right nail care techniques to keep your nails healthy and free from infections.

If you’re experiencing changes in your nails or are concerned about an inflammatory nail condition, don’t hesitate to reach out for a consultation. I can help you determine the cause and provide a tailored treatment plan to restore the health of your nails.

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