Nails have several functions, both related to daily routine activities, such as helping to pick up or grasp objects, and aesthetics, due to its visibility and impact they have on the appearance of the hands and feet. Thus, the perception that something abnormal is happening with the nails, especially when there are visible signs, is a common reason for seeking medical attention. Dermatologists are the medical specialists responsible for diagnosing and treating skin, hair and nail diseases . What are nail diseases and how do manifest? There are several possible manifestations of countless diseases that can affect the nails, too many to name it. Changes in the appearance of the nails are mainly related to: Shape; Thickness; Texture and regularity of the surface; Color. The causes of these changes are diverse, for example: Anatomical changes, such as the bunion on the foot; Use of inappropriate or ill-adapted footwear; Skin conditions that affect the nails, such as psoriasis, eczema, or lichen planus; Infections or specific diseases of the nails, such as pinch nails, active fungi infection or sequelae; Less frequently, some systemic or locoregional diseases, such as circulatory diseases. Diagnosis and treatment of nail diseases The diagnosis of nail diseases is based on clinical history, patient assessment and medical tests if the situation warrants it. Mycoses (fungal infections) represent an important part of the cases of nail diseases. However, not everything that appears in the nails is caused by fungi and the diagnosis must be made by a dermatologist for the treatment to be adequate . Treatment depends on the causes of the disease. It can be pharmacological , that is, with medicines, either locally applied or in tablets for oral use, or surgical . Not infrequently, the treatment of nail diseases is time-consuming, laborious, and potentially costly. A diagnosis as early as possible allows the prompt initiation of appropriate treatment and reduces the cost and risks of unnecessary treatments. Nail care Taking care of your nails regularly helps to keep it in good health . Nails grow continuously, those on the hands faster than those on the feet. On average, complete renewal of fingernails takes 6 months and toenails 1 year. The speed of nail growth decreases with advancing age and can be affected by illness, trauma, or medication. Nail care must be adapted to each person and many can easily do it on their own: Lightly file the nail surface if it is too thick; Trim the tip of the nail, or file if you cannot cut it, and keep it as short as it is comfortable. If necessary, put your nails in warm water first to cut it more easily; Some nail changes facilitate fungal infections and mycoses can also worsen changes already present. Adopt preventive measures for mycoses of fingernails and toenails: Wear well-adapted shoes, varied throughout the week or that are washable; Try not to wear old shoes; Avoid wearing synthetic material shoes or socks; Thoroughly clean and dry your feet, including the spaces between your toes and nails; Do not share files, scissors, or nail clippers. Prepare your dermatology appointment If you decide to seek medical care, schedule a dermatology appointment, and prepare it in advance . Think of some data that could be very useful to arrive at the correct diagnosis and record them, in case there is a risk of forgetting: Date of onset of symptoms; What were the symptoms and how they evolved; Medication that you usually take, including natural products or others with therapeutic properties; History of known diseases; Test results or other tests you have recently taken. Author : André Lencastre Meet the dermatology team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
