Are your fingernails developing tiny dents and discolouration or beginning to separate from the nailbed? This could be the start of nail psoriasis. This nail condition can make it difficult to do daily tasks such as cooking or washing utensils.
Besides the discomfort, your nail also turns unshapely, which may affect your confidence when showing your hands.
If you or someone you know is dealing with psoriasis fingernails, this blog is for you. Scroll down to treat this condition and get strong, healthy nails.
What Is Nail Psoriasis?
Psoriasis of the nails is caused by the rapid skin cell production under and around the nails, triggered by the immune system. It leads to inflammation and even changes in the nail structure.
Medically, the term psoriatic nail disease is also used for this nail condition. It describes the different patterns of nail changes caused by psoriasis. These changes may affect the fingernails or toenails, though fingernail involvement is more common.
Psoriasis is generally a skin condition, but according to NCBI, around 50% of people with psoriasis also experience nail involvement at some point. In the majority of cases, skin psoriasis appears first, but in some cases, nail psoriasis can precede skin psoriasis.
Symptoms of Nail Psoriasis
The signs and symptoms of psoriasis on the fingernails can vary in severity. Typically, you may notice:
- Pitting: These are small depressions or tiny holes that appear on the nail surface, providing a rough texture.
- Discolouration: The nail may turn yellowish brown or have small white spots.
- Thickening: The nails can become unusually thick and stiff due to rapid cell production.
- Onycholysis: You may notice nails separating from the nail bed, which can be painful and increase the risk of infection.
- Crumbly nails: Your nails may break or chip easily while doing normal day-to-day activities.
- Redness or inflammation: The cuticles or the skin surrounding the nails may become swollen or tender.
- Onychomycosis: It is a fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails that causes thickening, discoloration, and brittleness.
Sometimes these symptoms may not be too obvious, but start with just mild pain or discomfort in the nailbeds of fingers or toes.
What Are The Causes and Risk Factors?
According to StatPearls, there are many factors that can trigger and increase the risk of psoriasis on the nails, disrupting nail formation. These are:
- Genetics
- Immunity dysregulation
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Injury or trauma
- Stress and infections
Nail Psoriasis Treatment Options
Treatment for psoriasis and nail discomfort is focused on reducing inflammation, improving nail appearance, and preventing complications. These are common strategies that are used to treat it:
1. Topical Medication
To treat mild psoriasis, doctors recommend topical corticosteroids or vitamin D analogues that are directly applied to the nails twice a day. These slow down the abnormal immune reaction and help reduce inflammation. Studies have shown that their consistent application over weeks to months can improve psoriasis and nails.
2. Oral Medications
In severe cases or psoriatic nail disease affecting multiple nails, doctors may prescribe systemic medications such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, or biologics.
These drugs help reduce the negative effects of the immune system and improve both skin and nail symptoms.
3. Phototherapy
This therapy uses light, particularly PUVA (psoralen combined with UVA light), which is shown to be effective for some patients. However, it is more commonly used for skin than nails.
As per the American Academy of Dermatology Association, six phototherapy sessions done once a month can significantly reduce nail discolouration, chipping, and pitting.
4. Home Remedies
In conjunction with medical treatments, you may also use simple fingernail psoriasis remedies to support your nail health, such as:
- Dead Sea salt soaks
- Turmeric and aloe vera paste
- Jojoba oil massage
- Zinc pyrithione application
- Salicylic acid dips
Along with these tips, keep your nails trimmed and clean to reduce the risk of infection. Moisturise nails and cuticles regularly and wear protective gloves when doing chores.
NOTE: Do not take any medicines without a proper consultation with your doctor. Self medications can worsen the condition of your nails.
Read More: Fungal Nail Infection: A Comprehensive Guide for You
To Sum Up
Nail psoriasis can cause pain, discolouration, thickening, chipping, and pitting of nails. Understanding the signs, causes, and treatments is crucial for effective management. If you detect any symptoms, focus on immediate medical treatment and nail care to protect your nail health. These simple steps can prevent worsening of symptoms and help strengthen your nails.
