Nails are the tough flat structures that provide form and shape to the tips of fingers and toes. They improve grip of fine objects.

Discoloured nails are a sign of allergic disorders, infections or due to chemical staining. Some skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis and lichen planus too affect the nails. Fungal infections are also common causes of nail damage. They make the nails lustreless, dull, rough and ridged. Damage to the cuticle or the fine film of skin at the proximal margin of the nail also causes fungal infection of the nails.

Proper treatment of fungal infection with antifungal tablets and creams help to clear the nails completely. The treatment of all nail disorders take a long period of time owing to the slow pace of nail growth. It takes about 3 months for the fingernails to grow out completely whereas the toenails take about 6 months for the same.

If the cuticle is repeatedly damaged there is a likelihood of repeated nail damage as it allows germs, water, detergents etc to enter the root of the nail, called matrix. People are generally of the opinion that a nail once damaged can never return to normal. This is not entirely true if the patient seeks appropriate treatment and completes his treatment for the full duration.

At the end of the month's treatment only about a fourth of the nail will look normal while the remaining terminal portion will look unchanged. Progressively the healthy nail will slide the damaged nail outwards till the nail is totally cleared off the infection.

Therefore, should you start a treatment for a nail condition, make sure that you regularly visit your doctor for up to six months if you want them shining again.

Dr. Rajan T.D., MD, DVD, DNB

Specialist in Skin & Sexually Transmitted Diseases

102B, Samrock Apts., 1st flr, Juhu Lane, Near Shoppers Stop, Andheri West, Mumbai 400058, India Tel: clinic: 0091-22-66982747 / 26705557 Email: rajan.td@gmail.com