She Strengthens

Uncovering the Truth About Nail Psoriasis

Are you concerned about the health of your nails? Do you notice unusual changes in their appearance, such as crumbling, discoloration, or pitting? You may be experiencing symptoms of nail psoriasis, a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

What is Nail Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a condition that causes your body to produce excess skin cells, leading to red, white, or silvery patches on your skin. In some cases, it can also affect your nails, causing changes in their appearance and texture.

Recognizing the Signs

So, how do you know if you have nail psoriasis? Look out for these common symptoms:

• Color Changes: Your nails may turn yellow, brown, or white, similar to a mood ring.
• Pitting: Small pits may appear on your nail surface, giving it a textured look.
• Nail Bed Separation: Your nail may separate from the nail bed, creating a white or yellowish patch.
• Subungual Hyperkeratosis: A chalky material may gather under your nail, making it raised and tender to touch.
• Changes in Shape: Your nail may become thicker, misshapen, or crumbly.

Treatment Options

While there is no quick fix for nail psoriasis, there are various treatment options available to manage and improve nail health. These include:

• Topical Treatments: Creams and ointments applied to the cuticles to help reach the nail plates.
• Biologics: Medications that target the immune system, administered through infusion or self-injection.
• Oral Antifungal Treatments: Medications prescribed to treat fungal infections alongside nail psoriasis.
• Corticosteroid Injections: Injections into the nail bed to complement topical treatments.
• Systemic Treatments: Medications that impact the whole body, prescribed for severe cases of psoriasis.

Taking Care of Your Nails

In addition to medical treatment, there are steps you can take to promote healthy nail growth and prevent accompanying infections:

• Maintain Good Hygiene: Keep your nails short and moisturize your cuticles regularly.
• Avoid DIY Remedies: Steer clear of home remedies that may have unintended side effects.
• Be Cautious at Nail Salons: Avoid exposing your nails to fungus and bacteria at salons.

When to Seek Help

If you notice any symptoms of nail psoriasis, it’s essential to consult a doctor. With patience and the right treatment, you can manage your symptoms and improve the health of your nails. Remember, psoriasis is not contagious, and with new treatments emerging, there is hope for effective management.