Introduction:
If your nails are brittle, cracked, or discolored, it may be more than just a cosmetic problem. Nail fungus and nail psoriasis are two of the most common causes of these nail changes. Still, the causes and treatment are different, so an accurate opinion is important.
For illustration, fungal infections can cause nail abrasion and itching, while nail psoriasis can lead to yellowing and plaque formation. Nail psoriasis vs. fungus also have different causes, threat factors, and treatments. And to confuse matters further, it's possible for these two generalities to coexist.
Nail psoriasis and nail fungus are two common causes of hair changes. Both conditions cause changes in hair texture and color. They may have the same symptoms and may be delicate to distinguish.
Symptoms of Nail Fungus vs. Nail Psoriasis
Nail fungus and nail psoriasis are truly analogous. Both factors can cause problems with nail structure and abrasion, as well as the structure of the nail bed. Your physician or dermatologist can identify subtle differences that separate the two conditions.
It is also possible for these two conditions at the same time. Some types of nail fungus are indeed more common in people with nail psoriasis, which affects about 10% of people with the condition. Psoriasis nails are weak or brittle, making it easier for microbes to populate the nail.
There are numerous symptoms of nail fungus and psoriasis. The most common coexisting signs and symptoms are described below:
- Pitting: Rash is a classic symptom of psoriasis. This is a change in the outer structure of the hair when small spots or holes appear on the hair. The number of hair holes can vary from one to ten.
- Onycholysis: Onycholysis is a condition in which a space forms under the nail as it begins to separate from the nail bed. Once a hole has formed, bacteria similar to Pseudomonas can begin to grow, frequently causing a dark green abrasion that's considered melanoma.
- Nail thickening: It is caused by the accumulation of cuticles under the hair. The medical term for this is subungual hyperkeratosis.
What’s the difference between nail psoriasis and a fungal infection?
Nail psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune complaint that causes large patches and red or purple crusts on the skin. Psoriasis is caused by a hyperactive immune system that causes skin cells to grow too quickly.
More than half of people with psoriasis also have nail psoriasis. Just like skin, nail cells grow very quickly. This causes some changes in the appearance and structure of the nails. Some people with psoriasis may also develop psoriatic arthritis, a form of psoriasis that affects joints.
Psoriasis is no way contagious, no matter where it's in the body. Nail psoriasis is not just an ornamental problem. If you have nail psoriasis, you should:
- Psoriatic arthritis
- It is the most serious skin disease.
- Itching or tingling in the fingers
- Difficulty with daily activities involving the arms and legs
- A feeling of shame
Nail fungus (onychomycosis)
Onychomycosis is a fungal disorder of the nails. The medical term for this is onychomycosis. This happens when fungi similar to mold and yeast grow in the space under the nail. The fungus feeds on keratin, which is the main protein of the nail.
Unlike psoriasis, nail fungus is contagious. It can spread from one part of the body to another and also spread from person to person.
Nail fungus is not part of a skin complaint like psoriasis. But it also causes symptoms. People with dandruff may experience
- pain and discomfort
- Some shoes are hard to wear.
- Feel ashamed of your nails
Treating nail psoriasis and nail fungus
Treatments for nail psoriasis
Nail psoriasis can be delicate to treat. You can try topical drugs, but it does not always work. Other treatments may include
- Vitamin D cream
- Corticosteroid injection into the nail
- Light therapy
In more severe cases, doctors may surgically remove the nail to allow new ones to grow.
Treatments for nail fungus
Over-the-counter antifungal specifics can cure some toenail fungus infections. However, the doctor will hunt the fungus to determine the cause if this fails. You may need prescription oral or antifungal medications. Doctors can also remove areas of the nail with fungus. Nails grow slowly, so be patient. Treatment results can take some time.
Causes of Nail Psoriasis vs. Fungus
While the signs and symptoms of nail psoriasis vs. fungus diseases are veritably analogous, the underpinning causes are veritably different. Here’s what you need to know about the causes of psoriasis and toenail fungus.
Nail psoriasis
The exact cause of nail psoriasis in general is unclear. This habitual autoimmune disorder is allowed to be due to one or more of the following factors:.
- Genetics is the cause.
- Immune problems
Most people with plaque psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis develop nail psoriasis at some stage of the disease.
Nail fungus
Nail fungus is not a habitual disorder, but a serious fungal infection can be delicate to get rid of fully. Fungal nail infections are caused by microscopic organisms, including fungi or yeast.
Some of the fungi linked to nail infections are:
- Trichophyton rubrum
- Trichophyton mentagrophytes
- Trichophyton verrucosum
- Aspergilus niger
Conclusion.
Nail psoriasis vs. fungus are two common conditions that can affect your nails. However, a nail analysis may be necessary to make the opinion if the diagnosis is not made in time. Accurate recognition is important because it ensures applicable treatment. Symptoms similar to nail psoriasis and nail fungal infections can manifest as nail abrasion, breakage, or nail bed vexation.
FAQs.
- Can psoriasis and fungus be contagious?
Psoriasis is not contagious, but some types of fungal infections can occur. It's important not to share nail polish or other hygiene products. Walking barefoot on sidewalks and other damp public places should also be avoided.
- Why do you get nail fungus?
Nail fungus is frequently caused by the presence of certain types of fungi on a polluted surface or the colonization of mold and fungi in moist areas. Keeping your hands and feet clean and your nails dry helps stop nail fungus.
- Is there a cure for nail psoriasis?
Psoriasis is incorrigible, but there are several treatments that can help control the condition and reduce symptoms.
