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Nail Diseases
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Skin Hair Nails

Nail Diseases

Toenails and fingernails are composed of the protein keratin, and their appearance can serve as a vital indicator of your overall health.

Overview

Your toenails and fingernails protect the tissues of your toes and fingers. They are made up of layers of a hardened protein called keratin, which is also in your hair and skin. The health of your nails can be a clue to your overall health. Healthy nails are usually smooth and consistent in color. Specific types of nail discoloration and changes in growth rate can be signs of lung, heart, kidney, and liver diseases, as well as diabetes and anemia. White spots and vertical ridges are harmless.

Nail Problems

Nail problems that sometimes require treatment include:

  • Bacterial and fungal infections
  • Ingrown nails
  • Tumors
  • Warts

Keeping your nails clean, dry, and trimmed can help you avoid some problems. Do not remove the cuticle, which can cause infection.

Frequently Asked Questions

The growth rate varies by location; fingernails typically grow about 3 millimeters per month, meaning a full replacement takes 4 to 6 months. Toenails grow much slower, at roughly 1.5 millimeters per month, so a complete regrowth cycle can take 12 to 18 months. During this time, the new nail grows out from the matrix under the cuticle, pushing the damaged portion forward until it can be trimmed away.
Vertical ridges, also known as onychorrhexis, are generally a normal part of the aging process and are considered harmless. They result from the natural shedding of cells in the nail matrix. However, if these ridges appear suddenly, become very pronounced, or are accompanied by other changes like discoloration or brittleness, it is worth mentioning to your doctor, as they can occasionally be associated with nutritional deficiencies or skin conditions like psoriasis.
Soak the affected foot in warm water with Epsom salts for 15 to 20 minutes to soften the skin and reduce swelling. Gently lift the ingrown edge with a clean, dry cotton ball or dental floss and place it under the nail to encourage proper growth. Avoid cutting the nail in a curve or digging out the ingrown part with sharp tools, as this can worsen the condition and introduce bacteria. If redness, pus, or severe pain develops, seek medical attention for professional drainage or partial nail removal.
Fungal infections typically cause the nail to become thickened, brittle, and discolored with yellow, white, or greenish hues, often starting at the tip or under the nail. Bacterial infections, which are less common, usually present with redness, swelling, and pain around the nail bed, sometimes accompanied by pus or a foul odor. If you notice rapid changes in color or significant pain, a clinician may need to take a sample to confirm the specific pathogen.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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