- Medical
Nail Issues
Understanding Nail Health
Healthy nails are not just cosmetic; they are an important reflection of your overall health. Nail changes can result from trauma, infections, inflammatory conditions, or systemic health concerns such as thyroid disease or nutritional deficiencies. Common nail problems include discoloration, thickening, brittleness, ridging, splitting, pain, or changes in growth. Because nails grow slowly, early changes may be subtle, but they can provide valuable clues for diagnosis.
Common Nail Concerns
Fungal infections (onychomycosis): Nails may become thick, yellow, brittle, or crumbly. Fungal nail infections can spread and may require oral or topical antifungal therapy.
Ingrown nails: Nails that curve into the surrounding skin can cause pain, redness, swelling, and infection. They often occur on the big toe.
Nail psoriasis: This may cause pitting, separation of the nail from the nail bed, thickening, or discoloration.
Trauma-related issues: Injuries to the nail or repeated pressure from footwear can cause bruising, ridging, or deformity.
Other conditions: Changes in the nails may also signal eczema, lichen planus, or systemic concerns such as anemia, thyroid imbalance, or autoimmune disease.
Treatment Options
At Heritage Dermatology, your dermatologist will carefully examine your nails, surrounding skin, and overall health. In some cases, lab testing or nail clipping analysis may be used to confirm fungal infection or rule out other causes. A full history, including medications, systemic symptoms, and recent injuries, helps guide accurate diagnosis.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:
Topical or oral antifungals for fungal infections
Minor procedures to remove or repair ingrown nails
Corticosteroid injections or topical therapies for inflammatory nail conditions such as psoriasis
Protective measures and gentle nail care routines to reduce irritation and prevent recurrence
Addressing systemic health issues when nails reflect a broader medical concern
Our dermatologists also provide education on home care, footwear choices, and preventive strategies to protect nail health long term.
Our Approach
We recognize that nail issues can be uncomfortable, painful, or affect self-confidence. At Heritage Dermatology, we take a thorough and compassionate approach to diagnosis and treatment. Whether the problem is medical, cosmetic, or both, our goal is to restore nail health and function so you feel comfortable and confident again.
If you are experiencing nail pain, discoloration, or changes in nail appearance, schedule a consultation with Heritage Dermatology. We will determine the cause, create a personalized treatment plan, and help you achieve stronger, healthier nails.
