Isla Bennett
There are many reasons why you may be finding it difficult to cut your nails. One reason could be that your nails are brittle. This could be due to a variety of factors, including frequent hand washing, aging, anemia, thyroid disorder, or a fungal infection. Another reason could be that your nails are thick, which can be caused by repetitive injury to the toenail, a fungal infection, or onychomycosis, a condition where yeast or fungus enters the nail through cracks or cuts. Thick toenails can also be a symptom of underlying health concerns, so it is important to seek proper health screening. Additionally, if you are cutting your nails too short, it may cause pain and sensitivity, especially if you are prone to ingrown nails.
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What You'll Learn
Thickened nails due to fungal infections
Thickened nails can be a symptom of a fungal infection called mycotic nails. This infection can affect both toenails and fingernails and is caused by fungal organisms entering through small cracks in the keratin or the nearby skin. While it can affect anyone, individuals with diabetes, psoriasis, or athlete's foot are more susceptible. The likelihood of developing a fungal nail infection also increases with age, with those over 70 having a 50% chance of contracting it.
Mycotic nails can exhibit various symptoms, including nail thickening, discoloration (white, yellow, brown, or black), and fragility. In some cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed, and the nail plate may become infected. The most common type of mycotic nails is caused by dermatophytes, which account for 80 to 90% of cases. Other causes include nondermatophyte molds, yeast, and various species of fungi.
Fungal nail infections are not typically serious, but they can be challenging to treat and may require prolonged treatment regimens. Treatment options include antifungal nail medicine that is brushed onto the nail and must be used consistently for several months. If pharmacy treatments are ineffective, a GP may prescribe antifungal tablets. In severe cases, infected nails may need to be removed under local anesthesia.
To prevent fungal nail infections, it is important to practice good hygiene and avoid walking barefoot in communal areas like showers and gyms. Additionally, keeping your feet away from others, cleaning shared shower stalls before use, and wearing shoes in locker rooms can help reduce the risk of contracting or spreading the infection.
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Nails are brittle from frequent hand washing
Nails can become hard to cut due to a variety of reasons, one of which is frequent hand washing. Nails are primarily composed of a protein called keratin, and they require sufficient moisture to remain supple and pliable. When nails are exposed to frequent washing and drying, they can lose moisture, leading to dryness and brittleness. This is especially true in hot, dry environments or during the winter months when the air is drier.
Frequent hand washing can strip the natural oils and moisture from the nails, causing them to become dry, brittle, and harder to cut. This is a common issue, and it can be managed by taking proper care of your nails and hands. One way to mitigate this issue is to wear gloves while washing dishes or performing household chores that involve cleaning products. Gloves act as a protective barrier, preventing the nails from coming into direct contact with water, detergents, and other chemicals that can contribute to moisture loss.
Additionally, it is essential to keep your hands and nails moisturized. Applying a moisturizer or hand lotion that contains lanolin or alpha-hydroxy acids can help replenish moisture and improve nail flexibility. It is recommended to moisturize your hands and nails during the day, especially after washing them, and before bed to lock in hydration as you sleep. This can help soften the nails, making them easier to cut.
Another aspect to consider is your diet. Ensuring adequate protein intake is vital for boosting keratin production and maintaining strong nails. Nails that are deficient in protein may become brittle and more challenging to cut. Including iron-rich foods in your diet, such as red meat or spinach, can also help strengthen your nails. If you suspect an iron deficiency, consulting a doctor before taking iron supplements is advisable, as these can interact with certain medications.
Finally, it is worth noting that age plays a role in nail health. Nails naturally lose strength and become more brittle as we grow older. Taking proactive care of your nails as you age can help prevent and manage nail brittleness. This includes proper nail care practices, such as keeping nails trimmed, avoiding biting them, and filing them into a square shape to prevent ingrown nails.
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Nails are too strong due to taking supplements
Healthy nails are typically smooth and free of discolouration. However, if your nails are too hard, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Nails that are too strong and difficult to cut may be a result of taking supplements, and this is usually a sign of excess vitamin consumption.
Causes
Nails that are too strong could be a result of taking supplements, particularly biotin, also known as vitamin B7. Biotin is often recommended for nail health, as it can prevent nail splitting and breakage. However, taking too much biotin can lead to excessively strong nails. Additionally, consuming large amounts of vitamin A and vitamin C through supplements may contribute to this issue.
Prevention
If you suspect that your nail strength is due to taking supplements, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before discontinuing any supplements. They can guide you on the appropriate dosage or suggest alternatives. It is worth noting that a well-balanced diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, typically provides all the necessary vitamins and minerals for nail health.
Treatment
To address excessively strong nails, consider reducing the dosage of the supplement in question, particularly biotin, vitamin A, or vitamin C, under the guidance of a healthcare professional. This adjustment may help restore a healthy balance to your nail strength.
General Nail Care Tips
In addition to managing your supplement intake, maintaining healthy nail care practices is essential. Keep your nails clean, dry, and trimmed. Use sharp scissors or clippers to cut your nails straight across, and slightly round the tips. Moisturise your hands and nails regularly, especially after washing, to maintain hydration. Avoid using your nails as tools, and minimise their exposure to harsh chemicals found in nail polishes and household cleaners.
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Nails are ingrown and infected
Ingrown nails are a common problem, affecting two out of every ten people who seek medical advice for foot issues. They occur when the corner of the toenail grows into the skin, usually the big toe, but can affect any toe. Cutting toenails too short or rounding the corners can cause this issue, as can tearing the corner of the nail, or wearing ill-fitting shoes.
If you have an ingrown toenail, you may experience pain, redness, swelling, and pus. This is a sign that the nail has become infected. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice, especially if you have severe nerve damage.
To treat an ingrown toenail at home, you can try soaking the affected foot in warm saltwater for 20 minutes, two to three times a day. This will help to ease any discomfort. You can also try placing a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the ingrown toenail to help the nail grow above the skin. It is important to change the cotton or floss daily and apply an antibiotic cream to prevent infection.
If your ingrown toenail does not improve with home remedies, or if your symptoms worsen, it is important to see a healthcare provider. They may need to remove the corner of the nail or perform a small surgery to remove a larger section of the nail. In some cases, the whole nail may need to be removed.
To prevent ingrown toenails, it is important to cut your toenails straight across and long enough so that the corners do not tuck into the skin. You should also avoid tearing or ripping your toenails and wear properly fitting shoes.
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Nails are curved and thickened due to yeast
There are many reasons why nails can become hard to cut. One reason could be that your nails are brittle. This can be caused by too much or too little moisture, which can be due to frequent hand washing or dishwashing, or environmental factors such as hot, dry weather or winter months. Age can also be a factor, as nails naturally decrease in strength over time.
Another reason could be that your nails are curved and thickened. This can be caused by yeast onychomycosis, a type of fungal infection that affects the nails. Yeast onychomycosis is caused by an overgrowth of yeast, often Candida, and can result in thickened and curved nails with discoloration. This type of infection is more common in those with a weakened immune system and is more likely to affect the fingernails than the toenails.
If you are experiencing curved and thickened nails due to yeast onychomycosis, there are several steps you can take to manage the condition and improve the appearance of your nails:
- See a doctor or healthcare provider: A healthcare professional can examine your nails and confirm the presence of a fungal infection. They may take nail clippings or swab under the nail to test for fungal growth. Early diagnosis can improve the chances of curing the condition.
- Follow your doctor's recommended treatment plan: Treatment for fungal nail infections can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause. Your doctor may prescribe medications or other therapies to address the infection.
- Practice good nail hygiene: Keep your nails clean and dry, and avoid picking or scraping objects with your nails. Wear shoes in communal spaces and avoid sharing personal care items with others to prevent the spread of the infection.
- Address any underlying conditions: Yeast onychomycosis can be a sign of a weakened immune system or underlying health conditions such as diabetes, psoriasis, or athlete's foot. Treating and managing these conditions can help improve the health of your nails.
- Consider dietary changes: Eating a balanced diet with adequate protein and iron can support nail health. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD) recommends taking biotin vitamin supplements to strengthen nails.
- Use appropriate nail care techniques: When cutting your nails, avoid cutting them too short or rounding the edges. Instead, file your nails into a square shape, smoothing any rough edges.
By understanding the underlying causes and taking the necessary steps to manage yeast onychomycosis, you can improve the health and appearance of your nails, making them easier to cut and maintain.
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Frequently asked questions
Your nails may be hard to cut due to a variety of reasons, including fungal infections, repetitive injury, or underlying health conditions such as anemia or thyroid disorder. Additionally, external factors such as frequent hand washing or a dry environment can cause your nails to become brittle and hard to cut.
To prevent your nails from becoming hard to cut, it is important to maintain proper nail care. This includes moisturizing your hands and nails, wearing gloves when washing dishes or cleaning, and avoiding cutting your nails too short. Maintaining a healthy diet with sufficient protein and iron intake can also help strengthen your nails.
If your nails are already hard to cut, it is recommended to gradually file them into a square shape, avoiding a metal nail file. You can use a glass or electric nail file to gently file your nails straight into an even line. It is also important to disinfect the nail area and seek medical advice if you notice any signs of infection or other underlying health conditions.
