TREATING YOUR NAILS
WITH CARE
DEFORMED NAIL
What is it?
Deformed nails can present as thickened or overgrown nails or excessively thickened and curved nails, often causing discomfort and aesthetic concerns.
Causes
- Diabetes.
- Alterations in the nail root, bed, or plate.
- Age-related changes such as poor circulation and metabolic shifts.
- Impeded blood flow in the hands and feet.
- Psoriasis.
- Trauma (e.g., tight footwear).
- Bacterial or fungal infections.
Diagnosis
- Clinical history and physical examination.
- Investigations:
- Blood tests.
- Nail biopsy (if associated conditions are suspected).
Treatment
- Treating the infection.
- Trimming the nails to reduce thickness and discomfort.
- Identifying and treating underlying causes such as diabetes or psoriasis.
- Switching to properly fitted footwear to reduce trauma.
- Improving blood circulation through regular exercise.
- Surgical options: Nail plate avulsion with phenol-based destruction of the matrix, depending on the blood supply to the affected area.
