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Overview of Nail Disorders
Overview of Nail Disorders
Overview of Nail Disorders
Many disorders can affect the nails, including deformity and dystrophy , infections, and ingrown toenails .
Infections can involve any part of the nail and may or may not change the nail's appearance. Most nail
infections are fungal (onychomycosis), but bacterial and viral infections occur.
Causes
With aging, nails become dry and brittle and flat or concave instead of convex. They may develop
ridges along their length. Nail color may change to yellow or gray. Brittle nails may split.
Toenails require special attention in older people and in people with diabetes (see Foot problems in
diabetes ) or peripheral vascular disease (see Foot care). Such people may have poor sensation in their
feet, which increases the risk of injury when they try to trim their nails. A foot doctor (podiatrist) can help
care for their nails to prevent skin breakdown that can lead to infections.