Split Nails: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
What are Split Nails?
Split nails, also known as onychoschizia, occur when a crack develops through the fingernail. This crack can be vertical, horizontal, or even diagonal. Split nails can be painful and unsightly, and they can also lead to other nail problems, such as infections.
Causes of Split Nails
There are a number of factors that can contribute to split nails, including: *
Nail injury: Any type of nail injury can lead to splitting, including cuts, breaks, and tears. *
Infection: Fungal and bacterial infections can weaken the nail and make it more susceptible to splitting. *
Excessive moisture: Prolonged exposure to water or other liquids can soften the nail and make it more prone to splitting. *
Nail biting: Biting your nails can damage the nail bed and lead to splitting. *
Brittle nails: Nails that are naturally brittle or weak are more likely to split.
Symptoms of Split Nails
The most common symptom of split nails is a crack in the nail. This crack can be small or large, and it may be located anywhere on the nail. Other symptoms of split nails can include: * Pain * Bleeding * Infection * Discoloration of the nail
Treatment for Split Nails
The treatment for split nails will depend on the cause of the condition. In most cases, home remedies can be effective in treating split nails. These remedies include: *
Keeping your nails clean and dry: This will help to prevent infection and further damage to the nail. *
Filing your nails regularly: This will help to smooth out the edges of the split and prevent it from catching on things. *
Using a nail strengthener: This can help to strengthen the nail and prevent further splitting. *
Taking biotin supplements: Biotin is a vitamin that can help to strengthen nails. In some cases, a doctor may need to treat split nails with medication or surgery. This is usually only necessary if the split is severe or if it is caused by an infection.
Preventing Split Nails
There are a number of things you can do to help prevent split nails, including: *
Wear gloves when working with water or other liquids: This will help to protect your nails from moisture and chemicals. *
Avoid biting your nails: This can damage the nail bed and lead to splitting. *
Keep your nails trimmed and filed: This will help to prevent the nails from becoming too long and brittle. *
Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet will provide your nails with the nutrients they need to stay strong and healthy. Split nails can be a nuisance, but they are usually not a serious health problem. With proper care and attention, you can help to prevent and treat split nails and keep your nails healthy and beautiful.
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