Nail problems
Nail problems aren't usually caused by anything serious. Common nail problems include brittle, loose nails that may change colour or shape.
Your nails may change over time
It's normal for nails to:
- become thicker or break more easily (brittle) as you get older
- become harder, softer or more brittle during pregnancy – they should be healthier within 6 months of having a baby
- change colour, become loose and eventually fall off after an injury
Fingernails that fall off after an injury should grow back within 6 months. Toenails can take up to 18 months.
Things you can do yourself
There are some things you can do to help with common nail problems.
Do
- wear rubber gloves if your hands are often in water or you regularly use cleaning products
- clean your nails with a soft nailbrush
- regularly apply hand cream to your nails and fingertips
- regularly trim your nails – it may help to cut nails after a shower or bath
- cut injured, loose nails back to where they are still attached – this helps them to grow back normally
Don't
- do not cut your nails down the edges – trim straight across the top to help avoid an ingrown toenail
- do not clean under your nails with sharp objects
- do not wear shoes that pinch your toes, especially when exercising
- do not bite or pick your nails or the skin around them
- do not ignore fungal infections on your skin – such as athlete's foot
See a GP if:
- you don't know why a nail has changed shape, changed colour or fallen off
- the skin around your nails has become sore, red, swollen and warm (paronychia) - this can be a sign of an infection or ingrown toenail
See a podiatrist if:
- your nails are too tough to cut or you can't reach them
Some GPs may be able to refer you for podiatry. You can also pay to see a podiatrist privately.
Causes of nail problems
Most nail problems are caused by:
- injuries or biting your nails
- staining your nails – for example, by smoking or applying a lot of nail varnish
- not regularly trimming your nails, or cutting them at an angle
- your hands often being in water or cleaning products
- a fungal nail infection
Nail problems can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious or long-term condition, such as:
- nail psoriasis
- iron deficiency anaemia
- an underactive thyroid or overactive thyroid
- diabetes
- heart, lung or liver disease
But don't self-diagnose – see a GP if you're worried.
Some medicines can also cause nail problems. Check the side effects of any medicine you're taking.
See pictures of nails that have changed shape
Nail problems: a visual guide
Nail abnormalities can tell you a lot about your general health. Use this guide to understand what changes in the appearance of a nail can mean and when you should see a GP.
View slides