What are the causes of thickened toenails?
Oct 21, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Thickening of the toenails may be related to factors such as aging, physical trauma, paronychia, onychomycosis, and psoriasis. It is recommended to keep the feet clean and dry, regularly trim the nails, and gently remove dead skin. Avoid wearing tight, non-breathable shoes and socks for prolonged periods. Regarding diet, maintaining a balanced intake of foods rich in vitamins and minerals can help promote healthy and strong nail growth.
Generally, thickening of toenails may be related to factors such as aging, physical trauma, paronychia, onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), and psoriasis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Aging
As people age, blood circulation to the toenails may slow down, and the turnover cycle of keratinocytes may lengthen. This leads to gradual accumulation of the nail plate's keratin layer, resulting in thickened nails with a slight yellowish discoloration. Maintaining foot hygiene and developing the habit of regularly trimming nails are recommended.
2. Physical Trauma
When a toenail experiences impact or pressure, it may lead to subungual bleeding or keratin buildup, causing the nail to thicken and turn yellow. Keep the affected area clean and avoid further pressure or external injury.
3. Paronychia
Paronychia is usually caused by bacterial infection. The inflammatory response can interfere with normal nail growth and structure, leading to thickening and deformation of the toenail. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and pus around the nail fold. Patients may use medications such as erythromycin ointment, mupirocin ointment, or fusidic acid cream under a doctor’s guidance.
4. Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection)
Onychomycosis is caused by fungal infection, which can disrupt the normal nail structure, leading to nail thickening, deformity, and pigment deposition that turns the nail yellow. Itchiness and scaling of the surrounding skin may also occur. Treatment options, as advised by a physician, include amorolfine hydrochloride solution, itraconazole capsules, or terbinafine hydrochloride tablets.
5. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that may trigger inflammation of the nail bed, affecting nail plate growth and causing the aforementioned symptoms. Other symptoms may include skin redness, scaling, and itching. Treatment may involve medications such as methotrexate tablets, compound tretinoin gel, or compound aminopterin tablets, used according to medical advice.
To promote nail health, keep feet clean and dry, trim nails regularly, and gently remove dead skin. Avoid wearing tight, non-breathable shoes and socks for prolonged periods. In terms of diet, maintain a balanced intake of foods rich in vitamins and minerals to support healthy and strong nail growth.
