- Nail diseases & disorders often result from bacteria, fungi or yeast that have invaded the nail. Other Causes include secondary diseases (such as anemia and diabetes), external trauma to the nail (such as a hammer or the nail being slammed into a car door) and hereditary factors.
- Discoloration is present in many nail disorders and diseases. These colors can range from red and black caused by external trauma, to dark yellows and greens caused by fungi.
- Bacterial and fungal infections of the nail include Paronychia, Pseudomonas, Onychomycosis and Tinea Unguis. Disorders caused by other health issues and external trauma in the patient include Onychogryposis, Onychorrhexis, Onychauxis, Leuconychia, Beau's Lines, Koilonychia, Melanonychia, Pterygium and Pterygium Inversum Unguis.
- In addition to discoloration, nails often chip and break in unnatural lines and patterns. Diseased nails infected by fungi or bacteria may also itch or have other discomforts.
- Brittle nails are caused by exposure to harsh chemicals and can be prevented by always wearing gloves when doing housework that expose your hands to harsh chemicals. Vertical ridges result naturally from aging and can be prevented by keeping the nails hydrated with cuticle oil containing vitamin E.
