Nail diseases affect a substantial portion of the American population, with estimates suggesting that approximately 10 to 20 percent of the general public experiences some form of nail disorder. Conditions such as fungal infections, ingrown nails, and psoriasis-related nail symptoms are among the most common. This prevalence can result in physical discomfort, aesthetic concerns, and significant impacts on individuals’ quality of life. As awareness increases regarding nail health and hygiene, it is crucial for those affected to seek appropriate treatments and preventive measures to address these conditions effectively.
Reference: AAFP.org
If you or a loved one suffers from a nail disease, contact us at Colorado Springs Dermatology Clinic, PC, to schedule a medical examination with one of our board-certified dermatologists in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, or Cañon City:
What causes nail diseases such as toenail fungus?
There are a lot of different nail diseases, and not all types have the same root cause. Here are the causes for common types of nail disease:
- Nail psoriasis: This is due to an autoimmune disorder that attacks your skin and nails.
- Fungal disease: Fungi are more likely to affect your nails if you’re older, have diabetes, or spend time in damp environments.
- Onychogryphosis: Age, genetics, and circulation issues can trigger this abnormal thickening of the nails.
- Ingrown nails: You can get ingrown nails due to injury, genetics, poorly-fitted shoes, or improperly-trimmed nails.
- Onycholysis: This nail separation is often due to dermatitis or chemical exposure.
How can nail diseases be treated?
Because there are so many potential causes of nail disease, treatments vary a lot. Your doctor might suggest a medication to fight fungal or bacterial infections. Some types of disease can also benefit from laser therapy, corticosteroids, or surgery. In most cases, keeping your nails dry, warm, and clipped can also help.
Why see a dermatologist?
Dermatologists are useful due to the many skin-related causes of nail disease. A lot of nail problems are a sign of issues like psoriasis or dermatitis. Therefore, to treat your nails, you’ll need to treat your skin issue. Furthermore, dermatologists have access to a lot of specialized tools like lasers that help to treat nail disease. Seeing this type of doctor lets you quickly and easily treat your nail problem.
How well does treatment work?
Success rates vary based on which treatment you choose to get. For example, nail fungus treatments range from 30 to 70 percent efficacy. If you want the best treatment possible, see a healthcare provider. At-home lifestyle changes help but can’t cure most nail diseases alone. Your doctor can suggest a more targeted treatment that will help fight the root cause of the disease.
Reference: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
What can I do to prevent nail diseases?
Many nail diseases are preventable as long as you care for your nails properly. Here are some things you can do to reduce your risk of disease:
- Keep nails clean and dry
- Wear shoes in shared public spaces
- Wear gloves when dishwashing
- Trim nails straight across
- Don’t bite nails or pick your cuticles
- LImit exposure to harsh chemicals
Our dermatology clinic locations
We offer medical dermatology at four CSDERM locations:
Central Colorado Springs
170 Parkside Dr
Colorado Springs, CO 80910
Phone: (719) 471-1763
North Colorado Springs
2060 Briargate Pkwy, Ste 150
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
Phone: (719) 471-1763
Pueblo
406 North Main St
Pueblo, CO 81003
Phone: (719) 566-0176
Cañon City
1332 Bauer Ln
Cañon City, CO 81212
Phone: (719) 275-7485