Submitted by Doug Leone, MD, and Adrienne Schupbach, MD, Dermatology and Mohs Surgery Institute
Most people know that dermatologists are the experts when it comes to skin problems, but did you know that they are also the specialist to see when it comes to concerns about your fingernails? In fact, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, nail problems make up about 10 percent of all dermatologic conditions and affect an especially high number of senior adults.
Fingernails are more important than we might think. They not only protect the tissues of the fingers, but their visual appearance can often give a clue as to a person’s overall health. Healthy nails are usually smooth and consistent in color. Changes in the nail, such as discoloration, thickening, or abnormal growth patterns, can signal more serious underlying health problems, including liver and kidney disease, heart and lung conditions, anemia, and diabetes. Sometimes, the nail changes are the first indication that there may be a more serious health problem. This is important because it may help to diagnose and treat a disease in the early stages when treatment is usually most effective.
A few examples of nail conditions that may indicate a more serious condition include:
- Clubbing of the nails may suggest pulmonary disease
- “Spoon shaped” nails indicate further testing, possibly for anemia
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed can be a symptom of a thyroid problem.
- Visible, small red spots on the fingers (telangiectasia) or pitting of the nails may indicate a connective tissue disorder.
- A dark-colored streak under the nail plate may actually be melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
- White spots or vertical ridges are harmless.
Other nail problems that may require treatment include bacterial and fungal infections and ingrown nails. Infections are often characterized by swelling of the surrounding skin, pain in the surrounding area, or thickening of the nail.
It’s important to practice good hand and fingernail hygiene as fingernails can harbor dirt and germs that may contribute to the spread of some infections.
- Fingernails should be kept short, and the undersides should be cleaned frequently with soap and water. Longer fingernails can trap more dirt and bacteria than short nails.
- Do not cut or remove cuticles, as they act as a barrier to infection.
- Be sure that any nail salon you go to practices proper sterilization of the tools.
- Avoid biting or chewing nails.
- Never rip or bite a hangnail. Instead, clip it with a clean, sanitized nail trimmer.
- Be cautious if you wear artificial nails as they can exacerbate any existing problems. Never use them to conceal a nail problem. If your nails are healthy, artificial nails are fine, but just be sure to give your nails a break.
For more information, you may contact the Dermatology and Mohs Surgery Institute at 309-451-DERM (3376), and online at
www.dermatologistbloomington.com. Dr. Leone and Dr. Schupbach, both residents of Bloomington, are board-certified dermatologists, specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology, including the treatment of skin cancer, moles, acne, rashes, warts, and all skin disorders. Dr. Leone is one of the few Mohs-trained surgeons in the area. Their office is located at 3024 E. Empire St. 2nd floor (in the Advocate BroMenn outpatient center).