Nail psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the nails on fingers and toes, causing them to become thickened, discolored, and brittle. It affects nearly 50% of people with psoriasis, making it one of the most common nail disorders.
Causes of Nail Psoriasis
The exact cause of nail psoriasis is unknown, but it has been linked to an overactive immune system. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, causing inflammation and other symptoms associated with psoriasis.
Other factors that can trigger nail psoriasis include:.
- Family history of psoriasis
- Stress
- Infections, such as strep throat or skin infections
- Injuries to the nails
- Smoking
- Obesity
Symptoms of Nail Psoriasis
The symptoms of nail psoriasis can vary from person to person, but some common symptoms include:.
- Discoloration of the nail, such as yellow-brown patches or pits
- Thickening of the nail
- Brittleness or crumbling of the nail
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed
- Pain or discomfort in the affected nail
- Changes in nail shape or texture
Diagnosis of Nail Psoriasis
If you have psoriasis and are experiencing symptoms of nail psoriasis, your doctor may perform a physical exam and take a sample of your nail to examine under a microscope for signs of psoriasis.
In some cases, a skin biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Your doctor may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to check for joint damage that may be associated with psoriatic arthritis.
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Psoriatic Nails: Signs, Symptoms, and Management
Treatment Options for Nail Psoriasis
There is no cure for psoriasis, but there are several treatments available to help manage symptoms, including nail symptoms. Treatment options may include:.
- Topical treatments. Creams or ointments containing corticosteroids or vitamin D analogs may be applied directly to the affected nails to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Systemic treatments. Oral or injected medications, such as methotrexate or biologics, may be used to treat nail psoriasis and other symptoms of psoriasis.
- Light Therapy. Phototherapy, or light therapy, uses ultraviolet light to slow down the growth of affected skin cells and reduce inflammation. It can be used in combination with other treatments.
- Surgery. In severe cases, surgical removal of the affected nail may be necessary to prevent infections and relieve pain.
It’s important to work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that works best for you and your symptoms. Your doctor may recommend a combination of treatments to manage your symptoms over time.
Prevention of Nail Psoriasis
While there is no way to prevent nail psoriasis, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing psoriasis symptoms, including nail psoriasis:.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Manage stress levels with exercise, yoga, or meditation
- Avoid injury to the nails, use gloves for manual work
- Care for your nails, avoid biting, keep them trimmed, moisturize them regularly
Conclusion
Nail psoriasis can be a chronic and uncomfortable condition, but with the right treatment plan, symptoms can be managed and controlled. If you think you may have nail psoriasis, talk to your doctor about your symptoms and treatment options.
With proper care and management, you can live a healthy and active life with psoriasis.
