From womansworld.com/wellness
Plus, see the doctor-backed home remedies that can help speed healing
When you think of signs that something is amiss with your health, your first thought may be aches and pains or even visible issues like hair loss or skin flare ups. Your mind likely doesn’t go to your nails, but experts say nail changes can be a sign of larger health issues. Case in point: A condition called psoriatic arthritis (PsA) can manifest as changes in your nails early on. Here we break down what you need to know, including symptoms of nail psoriasis you shouldn’t ignore.
What is psoriatic arthritis and how does it affect your nails?
“Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes joint inflammation and often occurs in people with psoriasis, a skin disorder characterized by red, scaly patches,” explains Will Haas, MD, MBA, Founder & CEO of VYVE Wellness. “Changes in the nails frequently precede joint symptoms, especially in the joints closest to the fingertips. This makes nail findings a critical clue for early diagnosis and intervention.”
Nail changes impacting people with psoriatic arthritis is not uncommon. In fact, “up to 80 percent of people with PsA also experience nail changes. The same inflammation that affects the joints and skin can also target the nail matrix and nail bed,” explains Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, Chief Medical Advisor for Sleepopolis.
5 nail symptoms that may signal psoriatic arthritis
Are brittle nails or hangnails a warning sign? What about tiny dents in your nails? Here, our experts describe what nail symptoms can signal psoriatic arthritis and how each connects to the condition.
“Nail changes a critical clue for early diagnosis and intervention.” —Will Haas, MD
Nail pitting
“Psoriatic arthritis causes inflammation in the nail matrix, the tissue beneath the skin at the base of the nail,” explains Dr. Haas. “When inflamed, this matrix disrupts keratin production, leading to small pits as the nail develops.”
Nail separation
“Chronic inflammation in the skin and nail bed weakens the adhesive bond between the nail plate and the underlying tissue,” explains Dr. Haas. “This causes the nail to lift and separate from the nail bed, creating a white or yellowish area beneath the nail.” Medically, it’s known as onycholysis.
Thickened nails
“Inflammation causes overproduction of keratin beneath the nail,” says Dr. Haas, which is called subungual hyperkeratosis. “This excessive keratin build-up creates the thickened appearance under the nail.”
Salmon patch discolouration
“A translucent, reddish-yellow spot under the nail may appear due to small blood vessels becoming dilated and leaky,” says Dr. Haas. “This directly reflects psoriatic inflammation in the nail bed.”
Crumbly or brittle nails
“Chronic nail bed and matrix inflammation can disrupt nail structure and keratinization,” says Dr. Haas. “Repeated cycles of damage and repair weaken the nail, leading to nails that break, split or crumble easily. They’re often rough, ridged or distorted.”
How to treat psoriatic nails
Your doctor can use a tool called the Nail Psoriasis Severity Index (NAPSI) to determine how severe your nail psoriasis symptoms are. While treating some conditions can be done with a singular targeted approach, treating psoriatic arthritis often requires a more multifaceted approach.
“Treating nail symptoms in psoriatic arthritis requires a dual-focused approach: controlling the underlying autoimmune inflammation and directly managing the nail involvement,” explains Dr. Haas. “Conventionally, biological therapies such as Humira may be prescribed for severe cases.”
Home remedies can help too
Our experts share that there are also treatment steps that can begin at home. “From an integrative standpoint, managing stress, following an anti-inflammatory diet and addressing underlying gut issues are paramount,” says Dr. Haas. “Topically, individuals with psoriatic arthritis can apply cuticle oil or creams to hydrate and prevent cracking.”
While you may love a great manicure, consider giving your nails a little more TLC and skipping any routines that will be harsh. “Affected individuals should definitely avoid gel/acrylic nails or aggressive manicures,” shares Dr. Haas. Regular nail polish is generally still safe to use if you don’t have active nail psoriasis.
“Keeping nails short, protecting them from trauma and moisturizing regularly can also reduce discomfort and prevent worsening,” adds Dr. Dasgupta.
The bottom line on psoriatic arthritis and nails
Ultimately, nail symptoms you may think are normal can be a sneaky warning sign of psoriatic arthritis and are worth a closer look.
“Many women assume nail changes are just cosmetic or age-related, but they can be an important red flag for an underlying autoimmune condition like PsA,” says Dr. Dasgupta. “Spotting and addressing these signs early—especially if you have a personal or family history of psoriasis—can make a big difference in long-term joint and nail health.”
https://www.womansworld.com/wellness/psoriatic-arthritis-in-nails-signs-you-shouldnt-ignore
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