Our feet take us on all kinds of adventures, and our toenails are there to protect them every step of the way. But let’s be honest, toenails often don’t get the love and care they deserve. Like our fingernails, they need some TLC to stay healthy and strong. Thankfully, most toenail issues are treatable, especially when caught early.
The Structure of the Nail
Toenails, like our skin and hair, are made of keratin, a protective protein that’s tougher and more resistant to damage than many other cells in our bodies.
Common Nail Conditions
Our toenails go through a lot: from stubbing our toes to wearing tight shoes and getting pedicures. Here are some common issues that can arise:
Lifted Nail Plate
Also known as onycholysis, nail lifting usually isn’t harmful and often results from trauma. It’s crucial to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infections. Sometimes, fungal infections can also cause nail lifting, so watch for changes in nail structure.
Thickened Nails
Thickened toenails can be due to aging, trauma, or fungal infections. They’re common in older adults and can become painful if left untreated. Podiatrists can help by trimming and thinning the nail, allowing better application of treatments.
Ridged Nails
Nail ridging can be a natural part of aging or a sign of conditions like psoriasis. Psoriasis causes red, scaly skin patches and can affect nails, leading to ridging, pitting, or lifting.
Splitting Nails
Nail splitting, like ridging, can result from aging or underlying conditions. It may be horizontal or vertical and can occur with psoriasis, fungal infections, or physical stress. Keeping nails short, moisturised, and using nail hardeners or supplements can help prevent splitting.
Deformed or Brittle Nails
Identifying the cause of deformed or brittle nails is essential. Aging, fungal infections, trauma, or skin conditions can all affect nail health.
Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections often occur in the skin around the nail, sometimes due to ingrown toenails. Paronychia, a bacterial infection, causes redness, swelling, and sometimes pus around the nail. Frequenting nail salons, trimming nails excessively, or wearing tight shoes can increase the risk.
Fungal Infections
Fungi feed on keratin, causing nail deformations and thickening. Fungal infections thrive in moist, warm environments. Signs include discoloured nails, a foul odour, nail lifting, and a scaly or chalky appearance.
Nail Trauma
Trauma can be direct, like stubbing a toe, or gradual, from tight shoes or intense activity. Trauma can lead to blood under the nail, thickening, nail loss, or secondary fungal infections.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails happen when the nail edge grows into the skin, causing pain and potentially infection. Causes include trauma, improper shoes, genetics, fungal infections, and abnormal nail shapes.
Skin Diseases and Nails
Fungal skin infections can spread to the toenails, making early treatment crucial to prevent long-term issues.
Unusual Nail Shapes
Unusual nail shapes can be normal or indicate a problem. Stable nails without changes are often benign, but painful, changing, or infected nails need medical attention.
Nail Tumours
Rare but important to watch for, nail tumours can affect toenails. Seek medical advice for any persistent or suspicious changes.
Splinter Haemorrhages
These tiny blood spots under the nail usually result from damaged capillaries. They often resolve on their own, but recurrent haemorrhages without a clear cause should be investigated.
Diagnosing and Treating Nail Problems
GPs, podiatrists, and dermatologists can diagnose and treat nail conditions. If you notice persistent nail issues, seek professional help for the best outcomes.
Strategies for Healthy Nails
- Smooth It Out
Use a pumice stone or foot file on damp heels and calluses after soaking your feet in warm water. For very dry or cracked skin, consult a podiatrist. - Moisturise
Moisturise your feet daily with a rich foot balm, especially after soaking. Urea-based balms can help soften and remove thickened skin. - Fight Fungus
Keep feet dry and clean, change socks daily, and use antiperspirant products if needed. For fungal infections, try tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar soaks, or over-the-counter treatments for superficial infections. Seek professional help for deeper infections. - Wear Sunscreen
Don’t forget sunscreen on your feet! Check for new moles or skin changes regularly. - Get Support
If home treatments aren’t enough, visit a podiatrist for tailored advice and care.
Taking care of your toenails doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little attention and the right steps, you can keep your feet and nails healthy and happy.