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Onycholysis is a disorder in the growth of the nail plate characterized by the separation of the nail plate from the bed. It is a health-hazardous condition. The separated nail from the bed does not protect against the penetration of microorganisms and viruses, which may lead to infection with diseases. How is onycholysis diagnosed and what are the treatments for it?
Onycholysis – characteristics
Onycholysis is the detachment of the nail plate from the bed and the formation of air bubbles in this space. This is not only a cosmetic defect, it can have serious health consequences. Inflammation or mycosis may develop under the lifted nail. The problem affects both the fingernails and the toenails. It is observed that women are more often affected than men.
Onycholysis – symptoms
How to recognize onycholysis? When we notice a white coating on the upper edge or on the side that goes deeper, it is a detachment of the plate from the bearing. At first, the nail is slightly pink in color, because the blood vessels are showing through. If infected, the color changes to yellow, gray or brown.
Onycholysis – causes
There are many causes of onycholysis. Research indicates that it can be caused by skin diseases and systemic diseases:
- psoriasis,
- diabetes,
- overactive thyroid gland
- atopic dermatitis,
- contact eczema,
- alopecia areata,
- autoimmune diseases,
- anemia,
- vitamin deficiencies.
The reasons also include:
- mechanical injuries of the nail plate,
- genetic predisposition,
- disorders in the structure of the nail plate,
- badly chosen, tight shoes,
- permanent pressure on the nails from the outside,
- hit, crush, crushing the nail plate,
- chemicals contained in nail polishes, removers and acids contained in exfoliating socks,
- sweat and lack of care for foot hygiene can weaken the structure of the plate and make it more susceptible to damage,
- nail filing too much,
- improper filing technique also leads to damage to the nail plate,
- nail fungus,
- onycholysis can be caused by some antibiotics and chemotherapy used to treat cancer
- it can also appear in pregnancy.
Hair, skin and nails – try a dietary supplement for a beautiful appearance
Onycholysis and hybrid manicure
Hybrid manicure is often indicated as the culprit of onycholysis. If the procedure is carried out improperly, the nails are damaged by excessive filing of the top layer, the nail plate is detached. If we wear the hybrid constantly, we may not be aware that something is happening to our plate because we do not see the symptoms appearing.
Both strong filing and hybrid preparations strongly interfere with the nail plate. You should use the services of proven manicure salons so that the treatment is carried out with the utmost care and attention to your nails.
Onycholysis – treatment
We can recognize the detachment of the nail plate from the bed by observing changes in the plate’s appearance. If you notice a white line, a mark on the plate and a pink color, you should visit a dermatologist or podiatrist. A specialist will determine the cause of this disease and select the appropriate therapy.
Treatment of onycholysis is based on eliminating the factors that may cause it and caring for the proper care of the plate. A short plate length, proper cleansing and disinfection, and the use of nutrients are recommended to stimulate the placenta to renew. It is not recommended to use nail polish or use a hybrid manicure during treatment.
When it comes to home treatments, it is recommended to use antibacterial and regenerating oils, e.g. tea oil, castor oil.
Medicines prescribed by a doctor are usually topical. If an infection occurs, the affected nail is surgically removed and the patient is given an antibiotic. With mycosis, the patient is given antifungal drugs.
Onycholysis is curable but may recur depending on what triggered it.
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