Nail Problems

BACTERIA : Often referred to as mold though the infection is actually caused by a bacteria called pseudomonas (also known as Greenies) which makes a green, greenish-black or yellowish-green color stain on the nail bed. This bacteria thrives in a warm & moist environment, especially in between the artificial nail & natural nail where moisture can be trapped if the artifical nail has not been fixed properly.

BITING HABIT : Often referred to as mold though the infection is actually caused by a bacteria called pseudomonas (also known as Greenies) which makes a green, greenish-black or yellowish-green color stain on the nail bed. This bacteria thrives in a warm & moist environment, especially in between the artificial nail & natural nail where moisture can be trapped if the artifical nail has not been fixed properly.

BLACK OR PURPISH COLOR : May be due a traumatic injury to the nail (e.g. smashing) & would recover to it's original color after healing is completed. Also linked to liver disease.

BRITTLE : Frequent immersion of fingers in water, exposure to harsh chemicals found in cleaning agents or a lack of zinc or EFAs (essential fatty acids) in the diet can cause brittleness. Symptoms include easy peeling at the nail edge, breakage & layering. Consume EFA-rich foods such as cold water fish (salmon, herring, halibut & mackerel), seeds & zinc-rich foods such as whole grains, egg yolk, seafood & meat. Certain health conditions could also turn nails brittle.

CLUBBING : Nails become enlarged & rounded. Has been linked to lung & heart diseases that cause a depletion of oxygen in the blood, & bowel disease.

FUNGUS INFECTION : It is caused by microscopic organisms related to mold, yeast & mildew. Symptoms include itch, skin dryness, pain, blisters & the loosening of the nail plate. Nail fungus may spread when footwear is shared or in shower rooms (floor surfaces). Toenails are generally more prone to such an infection though fingernails are not spared either. Try applying grape seed extract twice a day & keep nails short.

HANGNAIL : A tiny piece of dead skin that lingers next to the fingernail. It is often the result of frequent exposure to water or it could be a lack of Vitamin B & C in the diet. Do not pull it off, trim it carefully. Pamper nails daily (or whenever needed) with a moisturizing lotion. Also take Vitamin B-rich foods like brown rice & green leafy vegetables & Vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables & peppers.

WHITISH SPOTS : A lack of zinc or excess consumption of sugars. Cut back on sugar intake & opt for zinc-rich foods such as whole grains, pumpkin seeds, egg yolk, seafood, pecan & meat.