Onycholysis is the separation of the nail from its nail bed, often caused by fungal infections or trauma. It can be a sign of more serious conditions and treatment involves waiting for a new nail to grow.
The fingertips are made up of nail plates and nail beds. The nail plate, or fingernail, is the hard material that covers the top of the finger. The nail bed is the portion of skin where it lies and covers. Onycholysis is a condition characterized by the separation of the nail from its nail bed. This condition can also occur with the toenails and their nail bed.
There are several conditions in which similar symptoms could occur. However, there are two important characteristics that can indicate that the detachment is caused by onycholysis. First, the separation of the nail and the nail bed will happen gradually. Secondly, there is no pain during parting or after.
Both males and females can have onycholysis, although it is more common in females. The condition is mostly found in adults. However, it is not limited to any particular age group.
One of the most common causes of onycholysis is fungal infections. The condition is often seen in women with long nails, due to the trauma that occurs when the nails hit things. It can also be caused by repeatedly performing activities that involve immersing your hands in liquids without wearing gloves. There are other potential causes ranging from common to rare.
This condition can also be a sign of more serious conditions. These include skin conditions, iron deficiency and an overactive thyroid. This is often reported when most or all of the nails are affected.
This is not a condition that usually goes unnoticed for long. The separation of the nail from the skin is usually noticeable. Also, the nail often becomes discolored. It can turn white, yellow or green. The color is often an indication of the type of infection present.
Treatment of onycholysis is quite simple, but it is also slow. Nail separation is permanent. There is no way to get a fingernail or toenail to reconnect with the skin. You then have to wait for a new fingernail or a properly growing toenail to take its place.
The detached parts of the nails are usually trimmed. When the condition is caused by an infection, it must be treated before adequate growth can occur. This may involve taking antibiotics or other medications. Sometimes, even once a new nail has grown in, the condition can be evidenced by permanent marks or deformations.
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