Why do my fingernails split?

And other questions we are asked!

Why do my finger nails ……?

Common questions we get asked by patients in the clinic are about their fingernails as well as their toenails. So in this blog, I have asked Ivan Bristow, author of two medical textbooks on the subject, to highlight some of the common things we see and get asked.

What happens to fingernails with age?

All our nails grow continuously throughout life, only occasionally stopping when we are seriously unwell. Generally, the rate of nail growth declines slightly with age, but not for everyone. Over a lifetime nails may become damaged which may cause them to thicken (particularly toenails) or they develop ridges (known as Onychorrhexis) that run from the top to the bottom of the nail plate.

Ridged nail known as Onychorrhexis

What are the white spots in nails?

Small white spots appearing in the nail plate from time to time is very common. They generally grow out with the nail. On its own, it doesn't usually signify anything is wrong. If you have a lot affecting multiple digits, its worth just requesting advice to make sure there's no underlying cause.

White spots or patches on the surface of the nails you can feel are different and a common cause is the frequent use of nail gels and cosmetics which can degrade the nail surface leaving it looking white. You should check with your podiatrist or GP if you are concerned.

Whitening of a nail due to gel polish

Why do the ends of my finger nails split?

A common question, which refers mainly to fingernails rather than toenails. This is because as we get older, generally, toenails get thicker and harder, whilst fingernails become thinner and more fragile. The tips of the nails often split into thinner horizontal layers - the condition is called Onychoschizia. The problem is mainly cosmetic and rarely painful. The problem arises as the natural “cement” that keeps our nails together is weakened causing splitting and weakness of the nail plate.

The causes include too much water exposure so wearing gloves when washing up and doing any wet work with soaps, cleaners and detergents can help. Also, like your skin the application of a moisturiser (with vitamin E) to the nail and around it can help. Some find supplements like biotin and vitamin B6 helpful. Keeping the nails shorter and regular filing of your nails (in one direction) can reduce splitting.

Why do the ends of my nails lift?

Lifting of the nail where the nail plate lifts from the finger is called onycholysis and it is seen as an increase in the white, free edge of the nail. When it affects one or two nails it's most often due to overzealous manicuring. Also exposure to harsh chemicals such as household cleaners can cause it to happen to nails. If you have a pre-existing skin condition such as psoriasis or eczema, or if you have Raynaud's phenomenon, lifting is also very common. The nail edge remains white but if it becomes discoloured - for example green, it may indicate infection and requires treatment by a podiatrist or your doctor.

Nails lifting at the free edge known as Onycholysis

A longitudinal brown line in the nail

A brown stripe in the nail running the full length of the nail plate should always be assessed medically, particularly if it's changing - widening or darkening over months, or if the nail is splitting as well along the line. They are very common if you have a naturally dark skin type and not usually anything to worry about but can be a result of many things including fungal infections, side effects of medications, moles residing under the cuticle out of sight or very rarely they can indicate the presence of a nail tumour. If you are unsure, always consult a healthcare professional for advice.

Many thanks to Professor Ivan Bristow of www.foot.expert for this month's blog!

If you are at all concerned or need advice about a nail problem, feel free to make an appointment and come and see us. We are always happy to help!

Call 0161 427 4937 or email info@mrpodiatrist.co.uk to schedule your appointment.