Isla Bennett
A lifted nail, also known as onycholysis, is a condition where the nail separates from the nail bed. It can be caused by various factors, such as injury, fungal infection, or certain medications. While it may be tempting to remove a lifted nail at home, it is important to consult a medical professional to examine and remove the nail properly to prevent infection and other complications. A doctor will use sanitized instruments in a clean environment to reduce the risk of infection and ensure the procedure is safe. In some cases, podiatry intervention may be required, especially if there is an infection or underlying health condition.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Medical Term | Onycholysis |
| Cause | Injury, fungal infection, psoriasis, medication, thyroid disease, vitamin deficiency, iron deficiency, nail products |
| Symptoms | Fatigue, feeling cold, dizziness, weakness, headaches, sore tongue, fast heartbeat, nail thickening, nail discolouration, white spots or streaks, nail separation |
| Treatment | Oral antifungal medication, topical antifungal medication, trimming the nail, blood tests, topical vitamin D, corticosteroids, oral supplements, antibiotics, petroleum jelly, bandages |
| Prevention | Wear gloves, avoid harsh nail products, keep nails dry, wear clean socks and comfortable shoes, avoid excessive moisture, wear shoes that fit well |
| Specialist | Podiatrist, dermatologist |
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What You'll Learn
When to see a doctor
In most cases of nail lifting, serious complications are rare. However, it is still advisable to consult a doctor or podiatrist to ensure you receive the right treatment.
If you have diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or a suppressed immune system, it is imperative that you seek professional help. These conditions can cause impaired circulation to the lower limb, and if left untreated, nail injuries can lead to infections, ulcers, and other serious complications.
If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, purple, grey, or white skin, irritation, or swelling, you should see a doctor. If you suspect that your nail lifting may be caused by an underlying medical condition, it is important to consult a medical professional to identify and treat the condition.
Additionally, if your nail lifting is accompanied by other serious symptoms, such as fatigue, feeling cold, dizziness, weakness, headaches, a sore tongue, or a fast heartbeat, you should seek medical attention.
In the case of toenail lifting, wearing shoes that fit well is crucial. If your nail catches on things and worsens the condition, applying an adhesive bandage can help.
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Trimming the nail
If you have a lifted nail, it is important to see a podiatrist for an assessment to ensure you receive the correct treatment. Treatment depends on the severity of the nail damage and how much of the nail is detached from the nail bed.
If you have onycholysis due to an injury, the detached part of the nail will eventually grow out, and you can use nail clippers or nail scissors to remove the affected nail as it grows out. It is important to trim your nails regularly to prevent further damage and protect your nails from any additional trauma.
The best time to trim your nails is immediately after taking a bath or a shower when they are softened. You should use nail clippers or nail scissors for your fingernails and toenail clippers for your toenails. Remember to disinfect your tools monthly by soaking a scrub brush in a bowl of 70 to 90 percent isopropyl alcohol and then scrubbing your nail clippers or nail scissors. Afterwards, rinse the tools in hot water and dry them completely before putting them away.
When trimming your nails, cut almost straight across the nail. Use a nail file or emery board to slightly round the nails at the corners, helping to keep them strong and prevent them from catching on things. Avoid cutting your cuticles, as this can lead to infection. Instead, you should moisturize after trimming to help keep your nails flexible.
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Potential causes
Onycholysis is the medical term for nail separation, when the nail lifts from the nail bed. This condition is somewhat common and usually painless, but it can be contagious if caused by a fungus. It is important to determine the underlying cause of onycholysis, as it may indicate a more serious health issue.
Injury or nail trauma
The most common cause of onycholysis is some form of injury or trauma to the nail or the nail matrix (the area where nails start to grow). This can be caused by bumping or hitting your nails, wearing ill-fitting shoes, keeping your nails in water for too long, or even tapping your nails on a hard surface over a long period. Regular manicures can also cause nail trauma, as manicurists use a lot of force to trim, buff, and polish nails.
Fungal infections
Fungal infections occur when a fungus gets between your nail and nail bed, usually through cracks or cuts in your fingers or toes. Nails become thick and yellow and may show white spots and streaks. It is important to treat fungal infections promptly to prevent them from spreading and worsening.
Medications
Certain medications can cause onycholysis, including chemotherapy drugs, oral retinoids, antibiotics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medications can cause light sensitivity, making nails more susceptible to separation.
Nail products and chemicals
Harsh nail products and chemicals, such as nail polish, nail gloss, nail hardeners, nail polish remover, and artificial nails, can irritate the nails and skin around them, leading to onycholysis.
Nail psoriasis
Nail psoriasis causes changes to the structure of nails, which may include onycholysis. It can lead to nail thickening, yellowing, and white spots or streaks.
Iron deficiency
An iron deficiency in your diet can cause onycholysis and may also lead to anemia.
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Treatments
Onycholysis is the medical term for nail separation, when the nail lifts from the nail bed. It is usually caused by an injury to the nail, but can also be caused by fungi, bacterial infections, or psoriasis. It is important to treat onycholysis to prevent the shortening of the nail bed.
If you have onycholysis, it is important to see a medical professional to determine the underlying cause of your nail lifting. Depending on the cause, a medical professional may prescribe treatment for any skin conditions, medical problems, or exposures that may be causing your nail lifting.
If your nail lifting is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, your medical professional can prescribe appropriate antibacterial or
If you suspect that your nail lifting is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication, see a medical professional to help identify and treat the condition or determine if another medication may be substituted.
If your nail is only partially detached, a podiatrist may be able to help manage the nail and provide information and advice on how to prevent it from recurring. If the nail is fully detached, a podiatrist may not be able to help.
If the whole nail is detached from the nail bed, nothing can be done to reattach, repair, or replace the nail. If the nail is only partially detached, it should be removed. This can be done by clipping away as much of the detached nail as possible, repeating this weekly as the nail grows out. It is important to keep the nail smooth and file away any sharp edges. A thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, can be applied and covered with a non-stick bandage.
If the nail bed shows signs of infection, a podiatrist will cleanse and dress the area and refer you for antibiotics. The podiatrist will give advice on how to prevent infection, such as keeping the nail dry and promoting healing.
It is important to avoid excessive exposure to moisture and to ensure your feet are thoroughly dry after exposure to water. Wearing clean socks and comfortable, protective, well-fitting shoes can also help prevent nail lifting.
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Preventative measures
Onycholysis, or nail lifting, is a common condition where the nail separates from the nail bed. It is usually caused by injury, fungus, or psoriasis, although it can also be caused by certain medications or medical conditions. While it is not typically painful, it can be unsightly and embarrassing.
Keep your nails dry and clean: Nails that are frequently exposed to moisture are more prone to lifting. Make sure to dry your hands and feet thoroughly after washing them or swimming. Avoid excessive use of nail polish, nail gloss, nail hardeners, and fake nails, as these products can contain chemicals that irritate the nails and the skin surrounding them.
Wear protective gear: When doing activities that may damage your nails, such as washing dishes, playing sports, or gardening, wear gloves to protect your nails from potential trauma. Also, choose comfortable and protective shoes that fit well and avoid putting down heavy objects near your feet.
Practice good nail hygiene: Keep your nails trimmed and filed to a smooth finish. This will help prevent further damage and reduce the risk of bacterial growth. Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face or other surfaces with your hands after handling objects contaminated with bacteria or fungi.
Address any underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or a suppressed immune system, can increase the risk of nail lifting. Consult with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions effectively and reduce the risk of nail-related complications.
See a podiatrist or dermatologist: If you notice that your nails are lifting or separating from the nail bed, it is advisable to seek professional help. A podiatrist or dermatologist can help identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment options, such as oral or topical antifungal medications, to prevent further nail damage and promote healthy nail growth.
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Frequently asked questions
Nail lifting, also known as onycholysis, is when the nail separates from the nail bed. It is common in people who are pregnant or have certain medical conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, lichen planus, thyroid disease, bacterial or fungal infections, and rarely some forms of cancer.
It is not recommended to remove a lifted nail at home. A podiatrist or doctor can help correctly manage the nail and provide information and advice on how to prevent it from recurring.
If your nail is lifted, it is important to see a podiatrist or doctor for an assessment to make sure you receive the right treatment. Treatment options may include trimming the nail, taking antifungal medications, or stopping the use of certain nail products.
A doctor will use sanitized instruments in a sanitized environment to safely remove a lifted nail. The procedure typically takes 15 to 20 minutes, but it can take up to 18 months for a toenail to fully regrow.
