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Patients who have psoriasis will commonly experience symptoms that affect their nails, causing discoloration, thickening, pitting, or other issues. Many systemic psoriasis therapies will improve nail psoriasis symptoms, but topical treatments or other options may be necessary. Patients experiencing nail psoriasis can trust in treatment from Dr. Liz Damstetter and the team at Reserve Dermatology.
What is Nail Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a condition in which the skin cells multiply faster than they should. This can also apply to the nails, which may become thickened, develop small holes, or change in color or shape. Nail psoriasis will affect about 90% of patients who experience psoriasis symptoms on their skin and is more common among adults. Patients who experience nail psoriasis are also at a higher risk for psoriatic arthritis.
What Causes Nail Psoriasis?
Nail psoriasis is caused by inflammation and excess cell growth in the nails. In some cases, trauma or injury to the nails can cause nail psoriasis symptoms. Generally speaking, psoriasis is believed to be an immune system disorder. Nail psoriasis is not typically affected by triggers such as cold and dry weather or stress as other psoriasis symptoms can be.
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Common Nail Psoriasis Symptoms
Nail psoriasis can cause changes in the color, texture, or shape of the nails. The nails can turn white, yellow, or brown and may develop red or white spots. Grooves or pinprick holes on the nails’ surface is also common. Chalky white debris may build up below the nail, which can in some cases cause the nails to lift from the skin. This can also cause pain. Finally, the nails may loosen or separate from the nail bed.
Fungal nail infections are also more common in those with nail psoriasis. This typically causes the nails to thicken, become brittle, or break.
Nail Psoriasis Diagnosis and Treatment
If you suffer from psoriasis, a diagnosis of nail psoriasis can be achieved simply by reviewing your medical history and visually examining the nails. However, Dr. Damstetter may also suggest a fungal microscopy and/or culture to rule out a fungal nail infection, as the symptoms can be similar. This is done simply by clipping the nails so they can be observed under a microscope or tested in a lab.
Topical treatments can be effective for nail psoriasis. Options include topical steroids, calcipotriol, or retinoid products, which can help reduce inflammation. Steroid injections can also be beneficial for this reason.
Systemic therapies that improve psoriasis symptoms, in general, can also be beneficial for those suffering from nail psoriasis. This includes various oral medications which Dr. Damstetter may prescribe. Finally, some patients benefit from light therapy treatments.
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Preventing Nail Psoriasis Symptoms
If you have psoriasis, there are some steps you can take to prevent nail psoriasis symptoms. Keeping the nails short and clean, moisturizing the nails and cuticles, and maintaining smooth edges with a nail file can help reduce nail psoriasis symptoms. Some patients also find it helpful to wear comfortable shoes or gloves when cleaning or otherwise working with their hands.
Schedule an Appointment
To learn more about your nail psoriasis treatment options, schedule an appointment with Dr. Damstetter. Call Reserve Dermatology in Glenview, IL or contact us online.
