What is nail psoriasis?
According to the National Institute of Arthritis, Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, India, psoriasis is a chronic disease in which the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to reproduce rapidly. Additionally, psoriasis can affect different parts of your body, including your nails.
What is nail fungus?
According to Dr. Geetika, Dermatologist and founder of Influennz Skin and Hair Clinic, India, the cause of nail fungus can be caused by many types of fungi, the most common being dermatophytes and filamentous fungi. Candida yeast seeds. Filamentous fungi often attack and cause damage from the nail edge to the inside of the nail, without causing periungual inflammation. Yeast granules cause damage from the nail base, leading to inflammation around the nail.
Main symptoms of nail psoriasis with nail fungus
Both nail psoriasis and nail fungus can cause similar symptoms, such as:
Nail discoloration: Affected nails may turn white, yellow, brown or green. The discoloration usually starts at the edge of the nail and spreads inward.
Nail dystrophy: Infected nails can become thickened, brittle and deformed, which can be painful, especially if they grow ingrown and pierce the skin.
How to differentiate between the symptoms of nail psoriasis and nail fungus
While both nail psoriasis and nail fungus can cause nail discoloration and deformity, there are some key differences between the two conditions, Dr. Geetika adds.
Symmetry: Nail psoriasis will affect all nails. In contrast, nail fungus usually affects a few nails, as it is caused by an external infection.
Psoriasis lesions on the skin: In addition to the nails, psoriasis also causes damage to many other parts of the body.
How to care for your nails
- Keep your nails well-trimmed to prevent problems such as ingrown nails and reduce the risk of infection.
- Avoid biting your nails because it can damage the nail bed and introduce bacteria or fungi.
- Moisturize hands and nails regularly to avoid dryness and cracking.
- Limit prolonged contact with water and always dry your nails after washing.
