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Nail infections are caused by viruses, fungi, and bacteria. Explore additional images of skin-related issues.
© iStockphoto.com/James CharronNails serve more than just as protective layers for delicate fingers and toes. They are living, growing components of your body and, like other parts, are susceptible to illnesses.
Infections in the nails and surrounding skin can arise from injuries, ingrown nails, splits, separations, or more severe conditions. These infections not only cause discomfort but can also disrupt nail growth and affect your overall well-being.
Although nails appear quite different from the outer skin layer called the epidermis, they are essentially the hardened form of the epidermis's top layers. In areas with thicker skin, like the palms, the epidermis consists of five layers. At the fingertips and toes, these outer layers harden into nails. Composed of keratin, a protein, nails safeguard the delicate tissue beneath and enable functions like scratching and grasping [source: O'Rahilly].
Infections arise when foreign invaders like viruses, fungi, and bacteria enter the body. While they may seem minor, infections can escalate into severe issues, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or if left untreated. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and irritation. Infected areas often feel warm, tender, and may discharge pus [source: Breastcancer.org].
No infection, no matter how small, should be ignored—even one affecting a tiny toenail. In the following sections, you'll discover the causes of nail infections and effective treatment methods.
Chemotherapy and Nail Infections
Chemotherapy often comes with side effects, and one of them is an increased risk of nail infections. These potent drugs target rapidly dividing cells, including those in your nails and hair, making them more vulnerable to damage and infections.
Chemotherapy can lead to various nail changes, including bruising, blemishes like lines or indentations, dryness, thinning, and slower growth. Nails may become brittle, cuticles may fray, and in some cases, nails might even fall off. While these effects are temporary, they can increase the risk of a more severe issue: infection [source: Healthline].
Chemotherapy weakens your immune system, the body's natural defense against infections. With reduced immunity, your nails and surrounding tissues become more vulnerable. Openings in the skin, such as frayed cuticles or damaged nails, can become entry points for infections, which your body may struggle to fight. If you notice signs of a nail infection, consult your doctor promptly.
Chemotherapy patients and others may experience various types of nail infections, including:
- A fungal infection, known as onychomycosis, often begins on the big toe as a discolored spot and spreads toward the cuticle, lifting the nail's edge. Sometimes, it starts at the cuticle and lifts the nail from there. The infection causes nails to thicken and crumble, with Trichophyton rubrum being the most common culprit.
- Yeast, a type of fungus, can infect nails when the immune system is weakened. This infection thickens nails and turns them yellow, brown, or white. Fingernail yeast infections can spread to the mouth.
- Paronychia, a bacterial or fungal infection, causes redness and swelling around the nail base and cuticles. Pseudomonas bacteria, often called "green spots" or "green nails," infect the area under the nail plate or between natural and artificial nails. Bacterial infections may produce pus and can be acute or chronic. Maintaining clean, dry skin around nails helps prevent paronychia [sources: Harvey, Skinsight].
On the following page, discover the treatments doctors recommend for nail infections.
While undergoing chemotherapy, preventing nail infections is crucial. Here are some preventive measures:
- Use rubber gloves for gardening, cleaning, or dishwashing.
- Maintain clean, trimmed nails and avoid picking, biting, or tearing nails or cuticles.
- Apply moisturizing creams to nails and cuticles.
- Opt for mild soaps and cleaners, and steer clear of acetone-based nail polish removers.
- Minimize prolonged exposure to water and ensure nails are thoroughly dried after bathing.
- Avoid manicures unless using sanitized tools, and refrain from artificial nails, as adhesives can harbor bacteria [source: BreastCancer.org].
Treating Nail Infections
The treatment for nail infections varies depending on the type, with some being more challenging to address than others.
Fungal nail infections, including those caused by yeast, are often persistent and may return despite treatment. If you suspect a fungal infection, consult your doctor promptly. Over-the-counter solutions are ineffective, and delaying treatment can allow the infection to worsen.
Doctors can treat nail infections through various methods. One approach is prescribing oral antifungal medications like terbinafine or itraconazole, which promote the growth of a new, healthy nail. Treatment typically lasts six to 12 weeks, with full recovery taking at least four months. Be aware that these medications may cause side effects, such as rashes or liver damage [sources: Harvey, Mayo Clinic].
For minor infections, your doctor might recommend ciclopirox, an antifungal nail polish applied daily for a week. After seven days, the nail is cleaned with alcohol, and the process repeats weekly for a full year. This regimen doesn't guarantee complete recovery. Alternatively, your doctor may suggest urea-based creams or debridement, a process of filing down the nail to speed up healing [source: Mayo Clinic].
In cases of severe or painful infections, surgical removal of the infected nail may be advised. The procedure is straightforward, but regrowth of the nail can take up to a year [source: Mayo Clinic].
Bacterial infections like paronychia and pseudomonas demand distinct treatments. Soaking the affected area in warm water several times daily can reduce pain and swelling. Depending on the infection's cause, your doctor may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics. If a fungal infection is involved, antifungal medications will be recommended [source: American Academy of Family Physicians].
For additional details on treating nail infections, explore the resources on the next page.
Some individuals turn to home remedies like diluted tea tree oil or Vicks VapoRub for nail infections. However, these methods lack scientific validation, so consulting your doctor before use is essential [source: WebMD].
