When it comes to common skin conditions, there are few that present more of a challenge than eczema. Some people struggle with the dryness, itching, and bleeding throughout their lives. And while there are a variety of treatment options available for those who suffer from this condition, hereditary and environmental factors often result in a persistent recurrence of symptoms. Eczema of the nails is equally troubling for many patients, and can often be even more difficult to manage.
Eczema of the Nails
Eczema of the nails can be caused by many different factors, including consistent exposure to moisture, poor hygiene, and picking at the nails and cuticles. All of these factors can result in a fungal infestation that becomes imbedded in the nail bef. Dish washing, sweaty hands and feet, and even diabetes can create the ideal warm and moist conditions that this fungus seeks. To make matters worse, there are various allergens that can trigger an eczema outbreak in sensitive individuals.
Eczema nails can be identified by discolorations, pitting, and lines across the nails. The nails can also become loosened, weakened, and covered with white patches. While this condition is not terribly painful in most instances, it can become so if patients forgo treatment for too long. For diabetics and leukemia patients, treatment is something that should never wait, since the condition can actually negatively impact blood circulation.
Treating Eczema
Treatment of eczema should begin with the basics. The first goal should be to reduce the swelling and alleviate discomfort. This is best accomplished by soaking your hands in a mixture containing cool water and natural bath oils. If that isn’t possible, the cool water alone is usually sufficient to relieve much of the aching and itching – and will also tend to reduce the inflammation that is responsible for much of the discomfort.
It is also important to try to identify the trigger factors that are contributing to the outbreak. Often times, the solution can be as simple as wearing gloves while you are cleaning or doing dishes. If you believe that ecological factors such as allergens are causing the eczema, then avoidance should be an important part of any strategy.
You can also try a number of different home remedies that have proven effective for many eczema patients in the past. Aloe Vera, tea tree oil, and apple cider vinegar have long been praised by home remedy advocates for their soothing properties.
Naturally, more severe cases of nail eczema should be addressed by medical personnel. Severe discoloration and cracking can often be a sign that infection has set in, and that may require antifungal medication or other forms of medical intervention.
At Tiffany Beauty Spa, we understand that many of our clients struggle with chronic skin conditions like eczema of the nails, and that those challenges sometimes make them even more determined to ensure that their nails look their very best at all times. We strive to work with all our clients to provide them with the best nail care in Fort Lauderdale, so that they can continue to enjoy the self-confidence we all need as we go through life. Give us a call today to find out how we can help you look and feel your best too.
