Nail eczema
Nail eczema is a fairly common problem. But, until now, many people mistakenly confuse eczema with other nail conditions. Therefore, let's talk today about what is nail eczema and how to treat it.
What is nail eczema
Eczema is a form of skin disease that causes itching, bleeding, and cracking of the skin due to excessive dryness and scaling. It can be very painful and uncomfortable, although it is not contagious.
Eczema is considered one of the most chronic skin diseases. Bacteria attack the top layer of the skin and this leads to an inflammatory process.
If eczema on the hands becomes severe, the disease can also affect the nails.
Nail eczema affects the area around and under the nail bed, both on the hands and feet, and can be caused by a variety of factors.
Symptoms of nail eczema
- Your nail is getting rough
- The nail loses its natural shine and attractiveness
- You may experience itching, a sensation of oozing fluid under the nail.
- The nail loses its color
- Small pits may appear and horizontal or vertical lines on the nails
- The nail may begin to break down
- In severe cases, you may experience pain around the nails.
Causes of nail eczema
Nail eczema develops due to a very small microorganism that attacks the nails and is a kind of fungus. This fungus is difficult to treat as it is most often found under the nail bed, which provides a safe hiding place for it to thrive.
The fungus that causes nail eczema tends to grow in certain conditions. The most common cause of eczema on nails is water. If your hands are frequently exposed to water and moisture, then there is a good chance that your skin may become infected with eczema. As a rule, housewives are most often the victims of this disease, especially if they spend a significant amount of time washing dishes or doing laundry, and neglect rubber gloves for cleaning.
Hereditary as well as environmental factors also contribute to the appearance of nail eczema. Allergens found in soaps, disinfectants, fresh juices, fruits and vegetables, pollen, pets, etc. - can cause eczema on the skin and nails. Even eating wheat, dairy, soy products, eggs, and nuts can be a factor in eczema.
When eczema occurs near the cuticle, it causes inflammation near the matrix. This inflammation can lead to waviness of the nail. This is often blamed on "nerves". The reason is the extraordinary reaction of the skin to a chemical that we all produce when we are stressed.
What is dangerous nail eczema
Nail infestation with eczema can be a painful condition and, if left untreated, can cause permanent damage to your nails. Do not delay, as eczema can spread throughout the body and even affect the immune system. People suffering from diabetes and leukemia are at particular risk because it can cause circulatory problems.
Eczema on the nails can also lead to complete loss, cracking and splitting of the nail plate. Fortunately, nail eczema can be treated and prevented even with home care.
Home remedies for nail eczema
Apple vinegar. Soak the affected nails in apple cider vinegar for about twenty minutes. Gently dry your nails with a soft, clean towel to make sure there is no moisture. Mix 1 tbsp. rice flour with 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar, form a paste, and gently apply to the nail. Massage your nails with gentle movements, and leave the mixture to dry completely. This procedure prevents the spread of eczema.
Lemon juice. Mix equal amounts of lemon juice and olive oil. Then massage the resulting mixture onto the affected nails with massage movements. The olive oil will soften the infected nail and the lemon juice will fight the infection.
Tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is another effective remedy for eczema on the nails. Prepare a mixture of equal amounts of tea tree oil and lavender oil. Apply the oil to a cotton pad and apply light pressure to the affected nail. This treatment for nail eczema will be very beneficial due to the antifungal properties of tea tree and the natural antiseptic found in lavender oil.
Sandalwood and camphor. Sandalwood oil, like tea tree oil, is well known for its disinfectant and antiseptic properties. It also soothes and hydrates the skin. Mix 1 teaspoon of sandalwood oil with 1 teaspoon of camphor powder to form a paste and apply it on the affected area.
Aloe vera. Aloe Vera effectively moisturizes and reduces pain and itching due to its ability to penetrate through the various layers of the skin.
Clean the affected area with mild soap, and apply aloe vera gel directly to the affected area. This will relieve pain and itching. I advise you to cool the Aloe Vera gel in the refrigerator before use. Cold helps to quickly get rid of itching.
I hope my information was useful to you, and will help you take the proper steps to treat and prevent nail eczema.