The nails are a part of the body that receives a lot of wear and tear. Because they are located on the hands and feet, they can easily suffer from many different problems including disease, fungal infections, and inflammatory conditions. It is important to take good care of your nails to avoid the need for dermatological treatments. However, when problems arise, it is important for patients in the Boca Raton area to seek assistance from our medical team at the Rendon Center for Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine.
Several types of treatments are administered based on the problem at hand. Several common nail disorders can be caused by infection or injury. Some may heal on their own, while others require treatment. Some of the most common problems we see in our practice are:
Ingrown Nails
Most ingrown nails occur on the toes due to tight shoes, too much trimming of the nail, or even poor posture, which can cause the nail to grow in a downward angle and into the skin. They can be painful and may lead to infection if they are not treated. We can help by cutting away the nail and applying antibiotic creams as necessary.
Fungal Infection
Fungal infections are common but can be difficult to treat. They may cause the nail to separate from the skin while debris builds up underneath the nail plate. This discolors the nail and can be extremely embarrassing especially when on the hands.
Bacterial Infections
When patients notice redness, pain, and swelling of the skin folds around the nail, this may be a sign of a bacterial infection. This is commonly caused by injury to the nail and can be addressed with the assistance of a board-certified dermatologist.