Nail Removal: Purpose
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More about Nail Removal:
Definition Purpose Precautions Preparation Aftercare Risks Normal results Resources |
Nails are removed only when necessary to allow the skin beneath the nail (the nail bed) to heal or in some cases, to remove a nail that has been partially pulled out in an accident. In the case of toenails, it is occasionally necessary to remove the nail of the large toe due to a chronic condition caused by badly fitted shoes. In general, however, doctors prefer to try other forms of treatment before removing the nail. Depending on the cause, nail disorders are usually treated with oral medications; applying medicated gels or creams directly to the skin around the nail; avoiding substances that irritate the nail folds; surgical lancing of abscesses around the nail; or injecting corticosteroids under the nail fold.
The most common causes of nail disorders include:
- Trauma. The nails can be damaged by nail biting, using the fingernails as tools, and incorrect use of nail files and manicure scissors as well as by accidents and sports injuries.
- Infections. These include fungal infections under the nails, bacterial infections of cuts or breaks in the nail folds, or infections of the nails themselves caused by Candida albicans. Inflammation of the nail folds is called paronychia.
- Exposure to harsh detergents, industrial chemicals, hot water, and other irritants. People who work as dishwashers are especially vulnerable to separation of the nail itself from the nail bed (onycholysis).
- Systemic diseases and disorders. These include psoriasis, anemia, and certain congenital disorders.
- Allergic reactions to nail polish, polish remover, or the glue used to attach false nails.
— Rebecca J. Frey
