Nail disorders can serve as an indication of your current state of health. These disorders may be the manifestation of an infection, or part of an inflammatory skin disease.

Some of the common symptoms include an untoward change in appearance such as discolouration, deformity, thickening, ridges or brittle nails.

Some cases may present itself as yellow, white, black or brown spots, while others can present itself as dark lines on the nails.

What changes in your nails are telling you

Fungal infections are the main cause behind most nail changes. These are called onychomycosis. It can either be caused by dermatophytes (fungi that require keratin for growth), or Candida albicans (a yeast species).

Other common nail conditions include ingrown nails, Pseudomonas nail infection, psoriasis, eczema, lichen planus and alopecia areata. Other nail changes may even indicate nutritional, liver or kidney problems.

Acral melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer that presents as dark spots or lines affecting digits and nails, especially if it involves the nail fold.

Risk factors for nail fungal infections include a weak immune system, associated skin conditions such as atopic eczema or psoriasis, diabetes mellitus, occlusive footwear, poor blood circulation, a warm or moist environment, and use of shared showers or locker rooms.

Atopic eczema and psoriasis, on the other hand, possess a genetic component.

How nail disorders can be treated

Onychomycosis, can be treated using topical agents such as amorolfine lacquer and systemic agents that include terbinafine, itraconazole and fluconazole (for Candida infections).

Surgical removal of a nail can be considered if it becomes too thick and is unlikely to respond to treatment. However, cure rates of recovery after nail removal may not justify the discomfort caused by surgery.

There are also cases involving the use of laser and photodynamic therapy. However, more proof of effectiveness is required before these treatment modalities can be safely recommended.

Preventive measures after suffering from onychomycosis include topical antifungals (creams, lotions or powders), antiseptic gels, and use of your own sterilised instruments for manicures and pedicures.

Additionally, you should set aside two nail clippers – one for infected nails, and a separate one for healthy nails.

You can treat ingrown nails by using conservative measures such as cutting nails straight across, using cotton wisps or plastic tubing, or taping to pull lateral nail folds away from the nail. If these measures prove ineffective, then surgery may be required.

Changes in nail appearance due to inflammation, on the other hand, have to be addressed individually.

In the event that a doctor suspects melanoma, further scans and surgery may be recommended.

How to prevent the occurrence of nail fungal infections

The best way to prevent a nail fungal infection is to keep nails short, dry and clean at all times.

When caring for toenails, it is important that you use well-fitting shoes, and to change your socks every day.

Avoid the use of high heels and shoes with narrow toes. Keep your feet dry at all times.

You can also opt to apply antifungal powder on socks and shoes. Also, when using a communal shower, consider the use of clean shower shoes.

For some, treating a nail fungal infection can be difficult, especially when the prescribed medication does not work. It is important that you see a doctor to get the right diagnosis instead of treating the condition yourself.

Additionally, people with diabetes are at a greater risk of developing potentially serious complications caused by these infections. Therefore, it is best to avoid taking any chances if you think you may be developing an infection.

This article first appeared on Hello Doktor. The Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.