Nail Disorders

If you have fingernails or toenails that look unusual, it could be because of nail disorders. At Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists in Trumbull, Westport, and Derby, Connecticut, the skilled dermatology team offers effective solutions. They treat an array of nail disorders to reduce pain and improve the appearance of your nails. Call the office to schedule an appointment, or use the online booking feature today.

What are nail disorders?

Nail disorders are conditions that change the appearance or structure of your nails. Common examples include nail fungus and ingrown nails. You might also have nail trauma, brittle nails, nail psoriasis, and other issues with your nails that cause pain or other bothersome symptoms. See the Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists experts at the first sign of nail disorders.

What are the symptoms of nail disorders?

Symptoms of nail disorders include:

• Nail discoloration
• Nail pain
• Tenderness
• Swelling
• Redness under the nail
• Pus
• Soreness
• Brittle or splitting nails
• Thickened nails
• Blood under the nails
• Nail pitting 
• Misshapen nails

These symptoms can affect your fingernails or toenails and range from mild to severe. They sometimes go away with proper at-home care or worsen over time when left untreated.

What are the risk factors for nail disorders?

The cause of nail disorders isn’t always clear. Fungal nail problems develop after exposure to fungus and often a cut or other open areas in the skin. Common risk factors for developing nail disorders include:

• Walking barefoot in communal areas
• Not cutting your nails straight across
• Cutting your nails too short
• Nail trauma
• Poor nutrition 
• Underlying medical conditions 
• Circulation issues
• Psoriasis
• Injuries
• Older age
• Diabetes

To reduce your risks, avoid walking barefoot in community locker rooms or showers, keep your nails trimmed straight across, practice good nutrition habits, and properly manage a chronic disease if you have one.

How does my provider diagnose nail disorders?

To find out if you have nail disorders, the Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists examine your nails and review your medical history and symptoms. They may take a small sample of a bothersome nail to use for lab analysis or look at your nails under a microscope to diagnose your condition and treat it properly. 

How are nail disorders treated?

The treatment that’s best for a nail disorder depends on its type and cause. Your provider may recommend you apply topical medicine to your troubled nail, take oral medicines, soak your nail, and wear more comfortable footwear.

You might also need a minor surgical procedure to remove an infected or severely ingrown toenail and ensure it heals properly. 

The Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists team tailors each treatment to ensure long-lasting results. They may recommend making nutritional changes or taking dietary supplements to avoid nail problems linked to nutrient deficiencies.

If you suspect you have a nail disorder, call the friendly office staff or use the online booking feature today.