How to Treat Psoriasis of the Fingernails
Psoriasis can affect both the toenails and fingernails. It commonly appears as pits in the beds of nails. It can affect men or women, adults or children. Sometimes, the nail may turn a yellowish color and can become quite thick; while other nails may crumble easily and be surrounded by inflammation. Some people even experience a complete nail detachment from the nail bed.
- Know what you are looking for. Before you can treat psoriasis of the nail, you must first be able to identify it. Look for nails and nail beds that are deeply pitted, have a yellow-pink discoloration, possess white areas beneath the nail bed or if the nail crumbles in yellowish patches and detaches form the nail bed completely.
- Trim your nails. If your nails are affected with psoriasis, trimming them back can help reduce the risk of injury that can traumatize the nail and worsen your condition
- Soak your nails. Soak your nails in warm water and follow up with a gentle moisturizer, working it carefully into the nail bed. If your toenails have thickened due to your condition, file them very carefully after soaking and then follow with the moisturizer.
- Wear well fitting shoes. Shoes that are too tight can cause undue pressure on the toenails and can, in turn, damage your toenails, causing them to thicken. Always wear roomy, well fitting shoes to avoid injury to the nails.
- Try brush on nail hardening products or even artificial nail sets that can help improve the overall look of remaining nails and protect your nail beds.
- Speak to your doctor. If your nails continue to deteriorate, or if the deformation of your nails causes you distress, speak to your doctor about your options. It may be possible to surgically remove the deformed nails and replace them with artificial nails in their stead.