Liam Carter
Thick nails can be a cosmetic concern, but they can also be a health concern. There are several reasons why nails can become thick and hard to cut, including fungal infections, aging, psoriasis, and other factors. In some cases, thick nails may indicate an underlying health condition. For example, fungal infections can cause nails to thicken and may require medical intervention. Additionally, repetitive injuries to the toenail, such as smashing the toe or ill-fitting shoes, can lead to thick nails. To prevent and treat thick nails, it is important to maintain proper nail hygiene, keep the hands and feet moisturized, and seek medical advice if necessary.
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What You'll Learn
Thick nails can be a sign of a fungal infection
Fungal infections can enter the nail through cuts or cracks in the surrounding skin. They are easily spread and can be contracted by walking barefoot in public spaces, such as locker rooms or pools, or by sharing manicure and pedicure instruments that have not been properly sterilised.
Fungal nail infections are not usually considered serious by doctors, but they can worsen over time and lead to secondary infections. Treatment for thick nails caused by a fungal infection typically involves treating the underlying cause. Antifungal medication is frequently prescribed, and this can come in the form of oral or topical medication. In more severe cases, nail removal may be necessary to treat the nail bed.
To prevent thick nails caused by a fungal infection, it is important to keep the hands and feet clean, dry, and moisturised to prevent cracks in the skin. Nails should be kept short and properly groomed, and foot powder can be used to keep the feet dry. When in public spaces where there is moisture, it is recommended to wear sandals or shower shoes to protect the feet.
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Thick nails can be caused by repetitive injury
Toenails thicken as a result of sudden or repeated trauma or injury. This is called paronychia, which is inflammation that causes redness and swelling of the skin around the nail. Inflammation of the nail area over a long period of time is known as chronic paronychia. This can be caused by infections or exposure to irritants, such as cleaning solutions. Over time, both fingernails and toenails may become thick, and layers of the nail may start to peel off.
People can develop paronychia from frequently sucking on their fingers, dishwashing without gloves, and trimming the nails or cuticles too much. Several occupations are also more of a risk for developing thick nails due to paronychia, including jobs that involve frequent dishwashing or exposure to cleaning solutions. The condition usually affects multiple fingers or toes.
Chronic paronychia can be managed in several ways. To prevent thick nails, a person should keep their hands and feet clean, dry, and moisturized to prevent cracks and treat cuts or other skin issues. People should always wear gloves while working in a wet area, such as dishwashing. It is also important to keep nails trimmed and not cut them too short.
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Thick nails can be a result of natural ageing
Thick nails can be unsightly and uncomfortable. While there are several causes of nail thickening, it can also be a natural part of ageing.
As you get older, your nails may change in appearance and texture. Nails may become thicker or thinner with age. This is due to the growth and repair rate of nail cells slowing down as a result of poor blood circulation, especially in the hands and feet. Blood circulation is when the small blood vessels in the feet begin to narrow and become thicker, making it harder for the blood to flow. This causes nail cells to build up, resulting in thickened nails.
Age-related changes in the morphology of the nail plate include alterations in its thickness, contour, surface, and colour. Men generally have thicker nail plates than women. With advancing age, the nail plate texture tends to become progressively more friable, resulting in fissuring, splitting, and longitudinal superficial or deep striations. The most common colour change observed in elderly people is a yellow to grey discoloration with a dull, pale, or opaque appearance.
Fungal infections, which account for about half of all nail disorders, are common in older people and can cause nail thickening and discoloration. Toenails are particularly vulnerable because shoes provide a warm, moist environment for fungus to grow. Factors that predispose someone to nail fungal infections include male sex, old age, smoking, underlying medical diseases (e.g. peripheral arterial disease, diabetes, and immunodeficiency), and predisposing genetic factors.
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Thick nails can be prevented by proper hygiene
Thick nails can be a cosmetic concern, but they can also be a sign of an underlying health issue. Toenails, in particular, can thicken due to fungal infections, older age, psoriasis, or other factors. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, so keeping your nails and the surrounding skin clean and dry can help prevent infections.
To maintain proper nail hygiene and prevent thick nails, it is important to keep your nails trimmed and short. This is especially important for toenails, as thick and long nails can cause discomfort or pain when wearing closed-toe shoes. When trimming your nails, use disinfected tools to avoid the spread of fungi or bacteria.
Wash your hands and feet regularly with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly. Keep your feet as dry as possible throughout the day, especially in public spaces like locker rooms or pools, where fungi can spread easily. Change your socks frequently, and opt for cotton socks that absorb moisture.
Additionally, choose properly fitted shoes that allow your feet to breathe. Avoid constrictive footwear that can cause repetitive injuries to your toenails. If your nails are exposed to water for extended periods, such as when dishwashing, wear gloves to protect your nails and prevent moisture buildup.
Maintaining proper nail hygiene can help prevent nail infections and thickenings. However, if you notice persistent thickening or other nail changes, it is important to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
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Thick nails can be treated with heavy-duty clippers
Thick nails can be a cosmetic concern, but they can also be a health concern. They can be caused by fungal infections, older age, psoriasis, and other factors. Toenails are especially susceptible to fungal infections because fungi thrive in warm, moist environments.
If you have thick nails, it is important to practice good nail hygiene. Keep your hands and feet clean and dry, and moisturize to prevent cracks. It is also important to treat any cuts or other skin issues. When trimming your nails, use disinfected tools and avoid cutting your cuticles.
If you are struggling to cut your thick nails, you may want to try heavy-duty clippers. These clippers are designed to handle severe nail conditions and provide better control during trimming. They are made from durable materials like stainless steel or high-quality metals, ensuring they can withstand the pressure required to cut through thick nails without bending or breaking. Heavy-duty clippers also have wider jaw openings, sharp blades, and ergonomic designs, making the nail trimming process more manageable.
To find quality professional-grade nail clippers, look for reputable brands and suppliers. You can ask at drug stores, medical equipment providers, or online retailers. Podiatrists and dermatologists can also recommend suitable tools.
In addition to heavy-duty clippers, there are other tools you can use to manage thick nails. Electric nail grinders, for example, can be used to thin and shape nails. Soaking your nails in warm water before cutting can also help to soften them and make them easier to trim.
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Frequently asked questions
Thick nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including fungal infections, aging, psoriasis, and other factors. If your nails are naturally thick, you may need to invest in heavy-duty clippers. However, if you notice a change in thickness, it could be due to a fungal infection, also known as onychomycosis, which requires medical attention.
In the early stages, there may be no discomfort, but as the infection progresses, symptoms such as nail discolouration, foul odour, and nail thickening may occur.
To prevent thick nails, it is important to maintain proper hygiene and keep your hands and feet clean, dry, and moisturized to prevent cracks and treat any cuts or skin issues.
Treatment for thick nails depends on the underlying cause. For fungal infections, antifungal medication or nail removal may be necessary. Soaking your nails in warm water with oils such as almond or tea tree oil can also help soften them before cutting.
If you notice any changes in nail thickness or suspect a fungal infection, it is important to consult a doctor or healthcare professional. They can diagnose the condition and provide appropriate treatment to prevent complications.
