Liam Carter
As the body ages, the nails are one of the many parts of the body that change. While some changes are normal, others may be indicative of a more serious underlying condition. One of the most common changes is a slowdown in nail growth, which can begin as early as age 20 and continue to decrease by about 0.5% per year. This may be caused by a decrease in blood circulation with age. In addition to slowing nail growth, nails may also become dull, brittle, thick, and prone to breakage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average nail growth rate | 3.47 mm per month |
| Toenail growth rate | 1.62 mm per month |
| Toenail growth rate as a percentage of fingernail growth rate | 33-50% |
| Age-related growth rate change | 0.5% per year from age 20 |
| Possible causes of slower nail growth in elderly people | Dysfunctional blood circulation in distal extremities, effects of ultraviolet radiation, nutritional deficiencies |
| Possible health issues indicated by nail changes | Heart and lung disease, anemia, liver and kidney problems, diabetes |
| Possible nail changes | Changes in texture, thickness, color, or shape; clubbing; ingrown toenails |
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What You'll Learn
Toenails grow slower than fingernails
Toenails grow about one-third to one-half as quickly as fingernails, with an average growth rate of 1.62 mm/month compared to 3.47 mm/month for fingernails. This difference in growth rate is not limited to humans; it is also observed in nail-bearing and claw-bearing animals.
The disparity in nail growth rates between fingernails and toenails is likely due to differences in use and the resulting trauma to the nail bed. Fingernails are used more frequently and are subject to greater mechanical forces, leading to increased trauma and a higher rate of nail growth. Toenails, on the other hand, are often protected by shoes and experience less trauma, resulting in slower nail growth.
This relationship between nail use, trauma, and growth rate is further supported by the observation that nails on the dominant hand, which is more frequently used, tend to grow faster than those on the non-dominant hand. Similarly, individuals who engage in nail biting exhibit increased nail growth rates, possibly due to the trauma caused by the habit.
In addition to use and trauma, blood flow may also play a role in the difference in growth rates between fingernails and toenails. Since the hands are closer to the heart, they receive more blood flow than the feet, which may contribute to the faster growth of fingernails. This theory is supported by the observation that nails tend to grow slower in cold weather when blood flow is restricted.
While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, it is clear that the growth rate of nails, including both fingernails and toenails, can be influenced by a variety of factors such as age, nutrition, season, and blood circulation.
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Nails may become dull and brittle
As the body ages, the nails grow more slowly and may become dull and brittle. This is a normal ageing change, but some nail changes can be caused by infections, nutritional problems, trauma, and other problems. Repeated wetting and drying, or exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals or cosmetics like cuticle and nail polish removers, can also worsen the problem.
Toenails are particularly vulnerable to fungus because shoes provide a warm, moist environment for it to grow. Factors that predispose someone to nail fungal infections include trauma, nutritional deficiencies, and diseases such as kidney, liver, endocrine, and lung disorders.
Nails may also become yellowed and opaque. This discolouration can be caused by a number of factors, including nutritional deficiencies, infections, or diseases such as Bowen's disease, a form of skin cancer.
The tips of the fingernails may fragment, and lengthwise ridges may develop in both the fingernails and toenails. These changes can be caused by dysfunctional blood circulation at the distal extremities or the effects of ultraviolet radiation.
If you feel like your nails are growing unusually slowly or are experiencing other symptoms such as discolouration, it is important to talk to your doctor. Your symptoms may be tied to nutritional deficiencies or another underlying condition. Your doctor can help determine the cause and advise you on any necessary next steps.
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Nails may thicken and harden
As the body ages, the nails may thicken and harden, especially the toenails. This is a common change that occurs with ageing. However, it is important to note that some nail changes can be indicative of more serious health issues. For example, changes in nail texture, thickness, colour, or shape can sometimes signal heart and lung disease, anaemia, liver and kidney problems, or diabetes.
Toenails are particularly susceptible to thickening and hardening due to the warm, moist environment created by shoes, which provides an ideal environment for fungal growth. Ingrown toenails may also be more common in older adults, causing substantial pain and difficulty walking. Therefore, it is essential to maintain good nail hygiene and seek medical advice if you notice any significant changes in your nails.
The thickening and hardening of nails can also be attributed to changes in the nail plate's morphology. This is related to the slowing of blood circulation in the distal extremities with age. Additionally, exposure to ultraviolet radiation can contribute to these changes. While the exact mechanisms are not yet fully understood, it is clear that nail alterations are a common occurrence in the elderly population.
While some changes in nail thickness may be typical, it is important to be vigilant about any unusual alterations. Some less common nail problems may require immediate medical attention. Therefore, consulting a healthcare provider is essential if you have any concerns or notice any sudden changes in your nails.
To summarise, while nail thickening and hardening can be a normal part of ageing, especially for toenails, it is crucial to be aware of any sudden or significant changes. Maintaining good nail hygiene and consulting a healthcare professional if you have any concerns are essential steps in managing nail health as we age.
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Nails may become more prone to infections
As we age, our nails grow more slowly and may become more prone to infections. Toenails, in particular, are vulnerable to fungus due to the warm, moist environment created by shoes. Repeated wetting and drying, exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals, and the use of cosmetics like cuticle and nail polish removers can also make nails more susceptible to infections.
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common nail infection in older people. It can cause the nail to become thickened, discoloured, and brittle, with debris accumulating under the nail plate. In some cases, the infection can lead to nail detachment and a foul odour. Treatment options include oral or topical antifungal medications, which may need to be administered for several months.
Another nail infection that can affect older individuals is sarcoptes scabiei infestation, or scabies. This mite can inhabit and persist in the subungual hyperkeratotic debris, leading to prolonged infestations and potential epidemics in nursing homes. Management of scabies involves antiscabetic treatment, nail cutting, and brushing the nail tips with a scabicide.
Additionally, older nails may become more susceptible to bacterial infections, such as paronychia, which is an infection of the skin around the nail. This can occur when the cuticle is damaged or removed, allowing bacteria to enter. Paronychia typically causes redness, swelling, and pain around the nail and can be treated with antibiotics.
While some nail changes are normal signs of aging, others may indicate more serious health problems. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare provider if you notice significant changes in your nails, such as pits, ridges, lines, or changes in shape, as these could be indicative of underlying medical conditions.
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Nails may develop ridges and lines
As the body ages, the nails may change in appearance and texture. While many of these changes are minor, some can indicate more serious health issues such as heart and lung disease, anaemia, liver and kidney problems, and diabetes. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if you notice any significant changes in the texture, thickness, colour, or shape of your nails.
Nails may develop lengthwise or longitudinal ridges and lines as we age. This is considered a normal ageing change. However, in some cases, ridges and lines can be caused by infections, nutritional deficiencies, trauma, or other problems. For example, iron deficiency, kidney disease, and nutritional deficiencies can cause ridges and lines to form on the nails. Repeated wetting and drying, or exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals or cosmetics, can also worsen the problem.
The underlying mechanisms for changes in nail growth rate and morphology are not yet fully understood. However, it is suggested that these changes may be related to dysfunctional blood circulation in the distal extremities or the effects of ultraviolet radiation. As we age, blood circulation slows down, which may contribute to the slower growth of nails.
Additionally, the nails on the dominant hand tend to grow faster due to increased usage, which also increases the risk of trauma. When trauma occurs, the body naturally sends more blood and nutrients to the affected area, promoting nail growth. Toenails, on the other hand, grow much slower than fingernails due to less frequent trauma.
While nail growth slows down with age, practising good nail hygiene can help maintain nail health. If you notice unusual nail discolouration or other symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor as it may be related to nutritional deficiencies or underlying conditions.
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Frequently asked questions
The growth rate of nails slows down with age, this could be due to a variety of factors such as dysfunctional blood circulation at the distal extremities, or the effects of ultraviolet radiation.
The average growth rate of nails is around 3mm per month, with anywhere between 1.8mm and 4.5mm considered normal.
Yes, toenails grow about one-third to one-half as quickly as fingernails.
Nails can become dull, brittle, and prone to breaking. They may also become yellowed and opaque. Toenails may become hard and thick, and ingrown toenails may be more common.
