Ava Monroe
Ingrown nails, also known as paronychia, are a common type of nail injury. They occur when the nail grows into the skin surrounding it, causing pain and discomfort. This condition can affect both fingernails and toenails, but it is more commonly seen in toenails. Paronychia is usually caused by improper nail trimming, where nails are cut too short or not straight across. This can cause the nail edge to curve and grow into the soft tissue, leading to irritation and infection. Proper nail care and hygiene are essential to prevent ingrown nails and maintain healthy nail growth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Medical name | Paronychia |
| Description | An infection of the skin around a fingernail or toenail |
| Symptoms | Red, swollen skin around a nail that's painful, warm, and tender to the touch |
| Causes | Irritation or injury to the skin around the nail, allowing germs to enter and cause an infection |
| Treatment | Antibiotics or antifungal medications; in severe cases, surgery or nail removal may be necessary |
| Prevention | Proper nail trimming, avoiding cutting nails too short, and maintaining good hand and nail hygiene |
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What You'll Learn
Ingrown nails are a type of paronychia, a skin infection
An ingrown nail is when the nail grows into the skin beside it, instead of over it. This can be extremely painful and uncomfortable, and often requires medical attention. Ingrown nails are a type of paronychia, a skin infection. Paronychia is an infection that develops underneath or adjacent to the nail. This occurs when the boundaries between the toenail, its plate, and the surrounding tissue are compromised, allowing infectious bacteria and fungi to infiltrate.
There are two types of paronychia, acute and chronic. Acute paronychia is most frequently caused by staphylococci bacteria after an ingrown toenail has invaded the lateral fold tissue, or following a pedicure that involved cutting the cuticle. This type of infection usually requires antibiotics to relieve the intense pain, and drainage to address the festering condition. Chronic paronychia can be prevented by completing curative care and correcting specific habits, such as wearing waterproof footwear when necessary, and changing socks daily.
Ingrown nails are often the result of improper pedicures, such as rounding the edges of the nail instead of cutting straight across, or cutting into the outer corners. They can also be caused by poorly fitted shoes that put pressure on the outer sides of the big toe, injuring the nail bed. Ingrown toenails can be particularly problematic for people with diabetes or circulatory issues.
Treatment for ingrown nails can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Soaking the affected area in warm water and using over-the-counter topical pain relievers and antibiotics can help relieve pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, a doctor may recommend non-invasive medical procedures such as placing tape on the affected area to pull the skin away from the nail, or inserting a small wedge of medicated cotton between the nail and inflamed skin. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove a portion of the nail or the entire nail to allow the infected area to drain and heal.
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Nail trephination can relieve pain and aid nail regrowth
An ingrown nail is when a nail grows into the flesh of the finger or toe, and it can be very painful. Nail trephination is a procedure that can be used to relieve pain and aid nail regrowth in the case of an ingrown nail. It is a quick, outpatient procedure that involves making a small hole in the nail plate (the hard part of the nail) to drain blood from beneath the nail (subungual haematoma). This relieves pressure and pain under the nail and can help the nail to regrow correctly. It must be performed within 24 to 48 hours of the injury, before the blood clots.
Nail trephination is typically carried out by a healthcare provider, who will first clean the nail and the surrounding area with soap and water, and apply a wound-cleansing solution. They will then use a needle, an electrocautery device, or a special tool to make a small hole in the nail, releasing the trapped blood. The procedure takes just a few seconds and is almost painless.
After trephination, the patient will be instructed to keep the area dry and clean, and to change bandages as instructed by their healthcare provider. Warm soaks can help to remove any clots that may form and relieve pain.
While it is possible to treat a bruised nail at home, for instance, by applying ice wrapped in a towel, it is important to see a healthcare provider if the blood under the nail increases or the pain gets worse. They can decide if trephination is necessary and evaluate for any other injuries, such as broken bones or nerve damage.
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The nail matrix is the active tissue that generates new cells
The nail matrix is a vital structure within the nail unit. It is the active tissue that generates new cells, which eventually become the nail plate or the visible hard nail area. This process involves the creation of new cells, which push older cells outward from the nail root to the nail plate, resulting in nail growth. The nail matrix, also known as the matrix unguis, keratogenous membrane, or onychostroma, is a delicate structure located beneath the nail bed. It contains nerves, lymph, and blood vessels, and its health is crucial for nail growth and appearance.
The nail matrix consists of two primary parts: the germinal matrix and the sterile matrix. The germinal matrix contributes about 90% of nail growth, while the sterile matrix accounts for the remaining 10%. However, the sterile matrix plays a more critical role in maintaining the attachment of the nail to the underlying skin. Any damage to the nail matrix, whether minor or severe, can lead to temporary changes in nail appearance and, in some cases, even cause the nail to fall off. Severe or permanent damage to the nail matrix may result in partial or complete nail loss, and it may take several weeks for a new nail to grow back, if at all.
The nail matrix is susceptible to various injuries and health conditions that can interfere with nail growth and appearance. For example, finger entrapment injuries in children can damage the finger pulp and fingernail, requiring medical treatment. Additionally, conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD), which reduces blood flow to the legs and feet, can slow nail growth due to decreased blood flow to the nail matrix area. Certain skin conditions, such as severe eczema, can also temporarily disrupt nail growth and cause Beau's lines, pitting, and texture or colour changes.
Furthermore, fungal infections, particularly in the toenails, can lead to thick, yellow, cracked, or cloudy nails. Serious illnesses, such as a heart attack, COVID-19, or pneumonia, can also interrupt nail growth and cause horizontal ridges known as Beau's lines. Injuries to the finger or toe, such as pinching or crushing, can injure the nail matrix and affect nail growth. Maintaining nail hygiene, avoiding trauma to the matrix area, and ensuring a well-balanced diet are essential for optimal nail health and growth.
In conclusion, the nail matrix is the active tissue responsible for generating new nail cells. It plays a crucial role in nail growth, appearance, and attachment to the underlying skin. Protecting the nail matrix from injuries and maintaining its health through proper care and a balanced diet are essential for the overall well-being and vitality of the nails.
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Nails are made of alpha-keratin, a tough, rigid protein
When a nail grows into the finger, the condition is called an ingrown toenail. This can be caused by improper trimming of the nails, and it can lead to pain and infection.
Nails, on the other hand, are made of a tough, rigid protein called alpha-keratin. This protein is also found in the claws, hooves, and horns of vertebrates. Alpha-keratin is a type of fibrous protein with a helical structure, giving it strength and rigidity. It is present in the hair, epidermis, and nails of mammals.
Keratin, in general, is an essential protein for the body, providing support and protection. It is found not only in nails but also in the skin and hair. The specific type of keratin found in nails is called the nail plate or corpus unguis, and it is made up of several layers of dead, compacted cells that give the nail its strength and flexibility.
The nail matrix, located under the base of the nail, is responsible for creating new nail cells. It produces 196 layers of cells that combine to form each fingernail or toenail. The nail matrix is constantly producing new cells, ensuring the growth and regeneration of nails.
Additionally, dietary protein intake can impact nail health. Adequate protein intake is necessary for nail growth, as it is the building material for new nails. A low-protein diet can lead to anemia and reduced hemoglobin levels in the blood, affecting the colour and health of the nail bed.
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Peripheral artery disease can slow nail growth
An ingrown nail is when a nail grows into the flesh of the finger or toe, usually the result of improper trimming, tight shoes, or an injury.
Now, onto the topic of peripheral artery disease and its impact on nail growth:
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a circulatory disorder affecting the legs and feet. It is caused by a buildup of fatty substances, such as cholesterol, in the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to these areas. This reduced circulation can cause a range of symptoms, including slowed or stopped toenail growth. While less common, PAD can also affect the hands and fingers, potentially slowing fingernail growth as well.
The condition impacts the nail matrix, a structure of special cells responsible for creating new nail cells. With PAD, the reduced blood flow means that the tissues in the nails are not receiving enough oxygen or nutrients to stimulate nail growth. This can result in nails that are brittle, thickened, discoloured, or slow-growing.
The impact of PAD on nail growth can be a sign of moderate to advanced disease. If left untreated, poor circulation to the toes can lead to wounds that don't heal and tissue death, resulting in gangrene. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you notice any changes in your nails or other symptoms of PAD, such as cold feelings in the legs and feet, sores that don't heal, or erectile dysfunction.
While PAD can significantly impact nail growth, it is important to note that other factors can also contribute to nail growth slowing. These include fungal infections, certain medications, and skin conditions such as eczema.
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Frequently asked questions
This condition is called paronychia.
Paronychia is an infection of the skin around a fingernail or toenail. It usually happens when the skin around the nail is irritated or injured, allowing germs to enter and cause an infection.
Treatment for paronychia depends on the type of infection. Bacterial paronychia may require antibiotics, while fungal paronychia may be treated with antifungal medication.
