Changes in the nail plate with psoriasis. Psoriasis of fingernails: drug treatment
Nail psoriasis is a disease that can affect people of any age. This disease is a consequence of a disorder in the body’s immune system, is chronic in nature, and relapses are possible. The development of the disease is facilitated by human genes responsible for the functioning of the body’s immune system. But psoriasis is a disease that can be treated, and preventative measures will prevent its development.
What is nail psoriasis?
Nail psoriasis
This is the name for a disease whose external manifestation is visible. These can be small dimples of different diameters, randomly located on the nails, and nail detachment, which can be partial, or can lead to complete loss nail plate.
Psoriasis of the nail plate is accompanied by a change in its color: it can appear, sometimes it reaches. If nail psoriasis affects the blood vessels, red streaks may appear. Any change in the color of the nail plate should be a reason for examination.
When the disease occurs, depressions may appear on the nail plate. Sometimes the edge of the nail becomes noticeably thicker and...
Such symptoms require attention and preventive measures. If nail psoriasis is confirmed, immediate treatment is necessary, since the disease will not go away on its own, and untimely or insufficient treatment can lead to serious complications.
Causes of nail psoriasis
A predisposition to psoriasis is observed in people whose relatives suffer from a similar disease. The possibility of transmission at the genetic level for this disease has a high percentage of probability, but is not at all mandatory.
Sometimes psoriasis occurs in people whose relatives did not suffer from this disease. Other factors may also cause its appearance:
Home treatment for nail psoriasis
If nail psoriasis is at the initial stage, only the first signs of the disease are visible, treatment can be started at home.
Treatment of nail psoriasis must begin from the inside. Be sure to take calcium supplements. They will help strengthen the structure of the nail plate and make it less susceptible to pathogens.
Pay attention to vitamin complexes that help normalize metabolism. These are vitamins A, B, C, E, P, which strengthen the body and improve the condition of nails. Thanks to them, the body begins to absorb many substances necessary for full growth.
Psoriasis can be a consequence of stress and psychological “fatigue”, so when complex treatment Pay attention to the use of sedatives and the necessary rest in this state.
Nail baths with decoctions of medicinal herbs will be useful.(chamomile, calendula, nettle, St. John's wort are recommended). You can prepare a decoction in a water bath; the combination of herbs can be arbitrary. Dip your nails into a bath of warm broth and hold your hands for 10-15 minutes until the water cools. Be sure to apply oil to your nails and emollient cream to your hands.
Rubbing and compresses of oils will help resist the manifestation of psoriasis (olive, sunflower and pine oils are recommended). A small amount of oil is rubbed into the nail plate before bed. Oils soften the nail, saturate it with essential nutrients, conifer oils have an anti-inflammatory effect. The procedure does not take much time and does not require additional preparation.
Other ways to combat the disease can be found in the video:
Treatment at home in the initial stages of the disease can be quite effective, but if nail psoriasis is in an advanced state, home treatment should be carried out in combination with medication under the supervision of specialists.
Nail care for psoriasis
Nail psoriasis is a chronic disease that can recur for any reason that provokes its appearance: stress, illness, nutritional disorders. If you have an illness, you should follow the recommendations of doctors to curb the manifestation of the disease:
When coming into contact with household chemicals, do not forget to protect your hands with gloves, since exposure to the products can trigger a relapse of the disease. The substances included in the composition destroy the natural structure of the nail plate, weakening it, which will help lead to the appearance of the first signs of the disease.
Try to avoid injuries to the nail plate: Even a minor splinter can lead to the formation of an infection nest.
Maintain good hand hygiene.
If nail psoriasis has already manifested itself, it is not recommended to do cosmetic procedures on the nails. Extensions and gel coating are strictly prohibited, since on a closed nail plate the development of the disease will not be immediately noticed, which can lead to complications. The use of even decorative varnish is not recommended.
It is better to cut nails affected by psoriasis short: the appearance of the diseased nail is far from aesthetically pleasing; sick long nails contribute to the development of the disease. It is better to cut off the affected areas.
Don't ignore nail psoriasis! Be sure to treat!
Diet for nail psoriasis
If your nails suffer from psoriasis, you must organize your diet in such a way that the body receives the necessary substances and the food does not cause harm. Doctors' recommendations regarding diet for illness are as follows:
- Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily, excluding juices and other drinks. The body must be able to “flush” harmful substances out of itself.
- Eliminate foods from your diet: alcohol even at low levels, smoked and salty foods, coffee, carbonated drinks, chips. Avoid adding vinegar, flavorings and spices to your food. It is recommended to replace sugar with sucrose. Don't get carried away with red fruits and berries, since the substances they contain contribute to the development of the disease.
- Maximize the amount of vegetables in your diet: they contain fiber, which will help remove toxins from the intestines.
- Eat lean beef and liver. Eliminate smoked meat and lard.
- It is recommended to limit the consumption of dairy products. But be sure to eat low-fat cottage cheese and hard cheeses.
- Introduce legumes into your diet, which can be a side dish for lean meat or turkey.
- Eat grain porridge (wheat, corn, buckwheat, millet). It is advisable to cook them not with milk, but with water.
Causes of recurrence of nail psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic disease, and relapses are quite possible. Any reason can provoke a recurrence: nervous tension, stress, another disease.
To avoid relapse, you should be attentive to your diet, your general health, and stressful situations. Do not eat foods that can cause problems with the digestive system. If avoided stressful situation is not possible, be sure to take sedatives.
Holidays on the seaside will help avoid recurrence of the disease or increase the intervals between relapses. Impact sun rays, sea water and warm sand have a beneficial effect on the condition of the body and the condition of the nail plate.
Be sure to carry out preventive procedures: take weekly baths in herbal decoctions, soften the skin of your hands with moisturizer. If there are no visible manifestations of the disease, apply medicated varnish to your nails.
Psoriasis on the nails is difficult to completely cure, but with regular preventive measures and following the recommendations, you can avoid frequent relapses and complications.
Nail psoriasis is diagnosed in 7% of patients suffering from skin manifestations of chronic pathology. Inflammation of the epidermis is often accompanied by another unpleasant manifestation.
Damage to the nail plates in this form of severe chronic disease has characteristic symptoms. Nail psoriasis exists not only as a concomitant form, but also as an independent disease. How dangerous is this pathology? Let's figure it out.
Causes
It is known that psoriasis is one of the most “mysterious” diseases. Lesions in various parts of the body, including nails, appear both under the influence of progressive factors and for no apparent reason.
Scientists have found that signs of psoriasis on the nail plates occur with the following phenomena:
- disruption of metabolic processes in the body;
- infectious diseases;
- weakened immunity;
- after strong emotional experiences;
- frequent, prolonged stress;
- hormonal imbalance;
- hereditary predisposition.
Important! Psoriatic lesions of the stratum corneum often occur due to vitamin deficiency. Insufficient nutrition, poor in micro- and macroelements, contributes to the growth of the affected area and the severe course of the disease.
First signs and symptoms
Psoriasis of the nail plates has a number of characteristic features. How not to confuse the signs of this chronic disease with manifestations of a fungal infection?
The difference is that some psoriatic nail lesions look distinctive. When pathogenic fungi multiply, such signs are not diagnosed.
A photo of each of these symptoms will help you understand that you have nail psoriasis and not mycosis. If you discover these phenomena, be sure to visit a dermatologist. The lack of timely treatment leads to severe damage to the nails, weakened immunity, and deterioration of the general condition.
Subungual hemorrhages
This term combines two varieties with different symptoms:
- first view. Under the stratum corneum, hemorrhages of brown, reddish, sometimes purple-black color, resembling stripes, appear. This symptom occurs after capillary rupture;
- second type.“Oil stain syndrome” is difficult to confuse with manifestations of other diseases. Spots are visible under the nails different shapes and size. Color – bright red or pink.
Onycholysis
This symptom occurs in many patients. An unpleasant manifestation in which the split nail plate is separated from the nail bed without pain. With this form, a thin strip of dirty pink color always appears, changing the shade to yellowish-brown over time. There are partial and complete onycholysis.
The process is accompanied by the penetration of dirt, air bubbles, and particles of dead epidermis under the exfoliating stratum corneum. Sometimes an unpleasant odor appears.
Thimble Syndrome
A characteristic symptom of psoriasis of the nails of the fingers and toes is quite common. The formation of the plate is disrupted, the stratum corneum is covered with small pits with a diameter of 0.5–2 mm. The recesses resemble the pits of a thimble and are located chaotically. The shape, color, and size of the formations differ on all fingers.
Pay attention! Pits on the stratum corneum are sometimes found in chronic dermatoses. If this symptom is detected, only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis by prescribing additional tests.
Trachyonychia
It is less common and is characterized by roughness of the surface of the stratum corneum and dull color of the nail plate. In most cases of trachyonychia there is no lunula at the base.
In some patients, in the early stages, the surface of the nails becomes flat, then more concave. After a while, a depression appears in the central part of the nail.
At this address, read an interesting article about the causes and methods of treating lip jams.
Unfortunately, there is no clear algorithm for preventing this disease. It’s not for nothing that psoriasis is called an “insidious disease.” There are no vaccinations or specific preventive measures that can provide a 100% guarantee of protection against the development of a chronic disease.
What measures help minimize the risk of psoriatic nail lesions? Take note:
- strengthen the immune system;
- eat right;
- take multivitamin complexes;
- maintain personal hygiene;
- treat microtraumas on the stratum corneum in a timely manner;
- In case of severe bruises or damage to the nail plates, be sure to seek medical help;
be less nervous; - monitor the state of the endocrine system;
- Treat infectious diseases promptly.
Important! Pay attention to the health of your nails. Lubricate them nourishing creams, do herbal baths, take calcium supplements. A good effect is achieved by using regular brewer's yeast. This natural product strengthens the stratum corneum, prevents delamination and dryness.
Start treatment for psoriasis of your fingers and toes as early as possible. Follow your dermatologist's recommendations and be sure to use prescriptions traditional medicine. Peace of mind and support from loved ones will help you quickly overcome the disease or reduce unpleasant manifestations.
Next video. Find out even more about treatment methods and nail care for psoriasis:
Nail psoriasis (psoriatic onychodystrophy) is a type of manifestation of a chronic skin disease of a non-infectious nature, often the beginning of a general lesion skin.
The nature of the disease is autoimmune and consists of excessive proliferation of immune system cells and skin keratinocytes, as well as excessive formation of small tissue capillaries around the nail. Usually, psoriatic plaques or other nail lesions are detected even before symptoms of the disease appear on the head and body.
In other cases, psoriasis on the nails can exist as an independent disease.
Photo of nail psoriasis
Causes of psoriasis on nails
The main cause of psoriasis on the fingernails and toenails is a malfunction in the immune system, which disrupts the processes of fermentation of substances and cell formation. Improper formation of the body's immune response leads to the release, division and growth of immature cells of the epidermis and the stratum corneum of the nail plate.
Since the body perceives such cells as foreign aggressors, leukocytes and lymphocytes are mobilized around the inflamed areas in large quantities, which leads to the development of an inflammatory process in certain areas of the skin. The production of specific antibodies causes the development of damage to one’s own skin and nails.
Another most important factor- burdened heredity. There are genes that predispose to the development of psoriasis. Some factors can trigger the development of the disease at any age:
- Cold, dry weather. Such weather conditions are often the impetus for the first manifestation of psoriasis, as well as the occurrence of its relapses.
- Severe and prolonged stress.
- Untreated bacterial and viral infections, for example, streptococcal (pharyngitis, tonsillitis), human papillomavirus, and HIV infection.
- Skin injuries - abrasions, cuts, scratches.
- Taking certain medications - beta blockers, lithium-containing medications, chloroquine, blood pressure medications, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, medications containing female sex hormones.
Given a combination of several unfavorable factors, the risk group for the incidence of nail psoriasis is young people under 20 years of age, most often males, as well as elderly people of both sexes.
Symptoms and signs of psoriasis on the nails
The symptoms of the disease are varied and depend on its type and form. The main, most common signs of nail psoriasis:
- Pinpoint depressions, grooves, dents on the surface of the nail.
- Changes in the color of the nail plate, acquisition of gray, brown, yellow shades, dullness, susceptibility to breaks, crumbling.
- An inflammatory border along the edge of the affected nail, involvement of fingers and toes by manifestations of psoriasis, severe peeling of the skin.
- Psoriatic plaques on the surface of the nail, yellow spots, similar to oil, loosening, peeling of the nail.
- Formation of deep holes on the nail bed after its detachment.
- Transillumination of capillaries, bruises through the nail plate.
- Dryness of the nails and the skin around them, the formation of convex growths, humps, subungual growth of connective tissue, purulent discharge from under the nail.
- Itching of the skin, areas around the nails, toes and hands. May vary from strong to absent.
Types and types of psoriasis on nails
The clinical picture of psoriatic manifestations on the fingernails and toenails is very diverse. Depending on the external symptoms, there are several types of nail psoriasis:
Thimble psoriasis. It is considered the most common, “classical” form of the disease. It is expressed in the appearance of small pits on the surface of the nail plate in the form of a scattering of dots.
Onycholysis. In this case, the nail plate is separated from the tissues of the bed, and no inflammation or pain is observed. A distinctive feature is a pink or yellow psoriatic border around the separated nail. In turn, this type of nail psoriasis can be divided into types:
- according to the extent of the process - complete or partial;
- in the direction of separation of the nail from the bed - central, lateral, distal.
Onychomadesis. Like onycholysis, it manifests itself in the form of separation of the nail plate from the bed, but differs in that the process occurs quickly, and there is no border around the nail. It is considered a severe type of nail psoriasis, difficult to treat.
Subungual hemorrhages(hemorrhages). Take place in two different manifestations:
- pink, red spots, veins of different sizes and shapes visible through the nail plate;
- the veins under the nail plate acquire a brown or black tint and a stripe-like shape, which is associated with ruptures of larger capillaries.
Trachyonychia. With this form of psoriasis on the nails, their surface becomes rough, uneven, rough. A variation of the type - koilonychia - is complemented by a flattening of the nail plate, and subsequently by a bending of its edges upward.
Psoriatic paronychia. It is more common in generalized forms of psoriasis. The skin around the nail and nail folds become very inflamed and thickened. Hyperemia can spread to the entire finger.
Stages of development of psoriasis on the nails
The course of the disease includes several stages, during which the nail acquires the main psoriatic signs:
- First stage– darkening, clouding of the nail plate. The appearance of small longitudinal and transverse stripes, depressions, sometimes forming a mesh.
- Second stage– thickening of the nail, as well as changes in the color and consistency of the nail. The shade becomes gray, brown, yellowish. In the hemorrhagic form of the disease, blood streaks appear under the nail plate. Purulent discharge from the nail fold is not uncommon.
- Third stage– separation of the nail from the tissues of the finger or toe. Often accompanied by the addition of a fungal or bacterial infection. It is considered an advanced form of the disease, reflecting nail atrophy. Before the plate peels off, “oil spots” may appear - yellow-brown formations that resemble an oil stain, as well as psoriatic plaques.
Consequences of nail psoriasis
Psoriasis is considered an incurable disease. It is capable of relapses throughout the patient’s life, even after a long lull. Despite the fact that the disease does not pose any threat to others, for the patient himself, any form of psoriasis can significantly increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, especially heart attack.
Nail psoriasis, usually foreshadowing common forms, aggravates the course of atherosclerosis of the arteries and any inflammatory processes.
The emotional, psychological and social consequences of the disease can also be severe. Neuroses, depression, alcoholism are conditions that accompany most patients with psoriasis. In case of severe mental state The risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer increases significantly. Against the background of the development of psoriasis, the course of other chronic conditions and diseases is often aggravated.
Nail psoriasis can deform the nail plate to the point of deformity and the inability to appear in public places. Severe forms This type of disease can cause a constant increase in body temperature, weakness, and impaired absorption by the body. folic acid. Generalized forms of psoriasis, affecting both the fingernails and toenails, can cause the development of a serious disease - Zumbusch psoriasis, which requires hospitalization and has a certain mortality rate.
Diagnosis of psoriasis on the nails
Typically, diagnosis of the disease is based on an external examination, since changes in the composition of blood parameters (leukocytosis, acceleration of ESR) are observed only in severe forms of the disease. To clarify the diagnosis, it is recommended to perform a biopsy of the damaged area of skin around the nail or psoriatic plaque that has formed on the nail plate.
Basic principle of diagnosis– differentiation of psoriasis from other skin diseases:
- The difference between nail psoriasis and paronychia and onychia of fungal and bacterial origin, as well as nail dystrophy in other dermatological diseases. To do this, all the main signs inherent in psoriasis of the nail plate are diagnosed.
- Differentiation of psoriasis from candidal paronychia by signs: release of purulent contents, spread to all nails of the toes or hands.
Treatment of psoriasis on nails
Therapy for the disease is long-term and is based on a comprehensive approach. All existing methods Treatments for psoriasis are selected by a doctor based on the clinical picture, the severity of the disease and the tendency to relapse, as well as individual tolerance and the presence of concomitant diseases. At the initial and middle stages of the disease, treatment begins with the use of local drugs:
- Ointments, creams containing corticosteroids. They are the main group of drugs against nail psoriasis. At the initial stage of the disease, triacort, triamcinolone, and prednisolone ointment are used.
- Preparations with vitamin D3 (tacalcinol, maxacalcinol, calcitriene, daivonex). Inhibits cell division of psoriatic manifestations. They have proven themselves to be effective in combination with betamethasone (Taklonex ointment).
- Coal tar or tar. It is a weaker analogue of products containing vitamin D3.
- Dermatotropic agents (anthralin, micanol, dithranol). Due to the slowdown in the formation of cells that form the manifestations of psoriasis, they can lead to stable remission.
- External retinoids (tazarotene, tazorac). Effective for mild to moderate nail psoriasis.
- Salicylic acid. Relieves itching, plaque and the upper layers of scales, enhances the effect of other drugs. Combines well with corticosteroid therapy.
- 5-fluorouracil solution under an occlusive dressing. The course of treatment is up to six months.
If local treatment is ineffective, systemic therapy is started, for which the doctor selects a course that includes:
Cyclosporine. Gives good results for nail psoriasis of any complexity. After a course of treatment, maintenance therapy with Neoral with the same active ingredient, but at a lower dosage, is recommended for 2 years.
Methotrexate(antimetabolite group). It is used to generalize the process, it has many side effects and contraindications.
Systemic retinoids(acitretin, isotretinoin) are indicated for advanced forms of the disease.
Antidepressants, antihistamines - to reduce itching and manifestations of stress in the patient.
Vitamin and mineral complexes, including zinc, selenium, calcium.
New directions in the treatment of psoriasis:
- the use of monoclonal antibodies (rituximab, ustekinumab), which are able to bind to cells of the immune system and destroy immature cells that form manifestations of psoriasis;
- biological response modifiers (eg, alefacept). Selectively act on cells of the immune system with impaired protective functions.
- necrosis factor blockers (etanercept, adalimumab, infliximab). They are used for advanced stages of the disease and generalization of the process.
Physiotherapeutic and other methods of treating nail psoriasis:
- photochemotherapy, phototherapy;
- plasmapheresis;
- hemosorption;
- excimer laser therapy;
- diathermy.
Additional measures steps that the patient can take: daily nail care, preventing nails from growing, preventing injury, using gloves for any work involving the action of chemicals, avoiding manicures and decorative nail coatings.
Treatment of psoriasis on the nails with traditional methods
At the initial stage of the disease, they have proven themselves traditional methods treatment of the disease:
- Decoction baths bay leaf. Pour 20 grams of raw material into 2 cups of boiling water and cook for 10 minutes. Cool, keep hands or feet in the broth for 15 minutes. You can take 40 ml orally. 3 times a day.
- Lotions on the area of psoriasis using water (500 ml) and oatmeal, corn starch (2 tbsp).
- Baths made from infusions of the following plants are effective: sage, string, oak bark, chamomile, celandine.
- Ingestion of herbal infusion. St. John's wort, calamus root, string, celandine, lingonberry leaves are mixed in equal proportions. The infusion is prepared at the rate of 1 spoon of the mixture per glass of boiling water, the dosage rate is 50 ml. 2 times a day.
- Cocklebur compresses (4 tablespoons of the plant per 500 ml of water) are made as follows: crushed brewed herb is applied to the affected areas and kept under film for 15 minutes.
Prevention of psoriasis on nails
The main methods for preventing recurrence of psoriasis on the nails are as follows:
Sanatorium-resort treatment with stay in a warm climate, including sea bathing.
A diet excluding allergens, alcohol, fatty and fried foods, sweets, spicy foods, smoked foods, and salty foods. Including vegetable oils, vegetables, fruits, fish, liver, cereals, and fermented milk products in the diet.
Taking vitamins and minerals.
Timely treatment of infectious diseases.
Elimination of skin microtraumas, protection of extremities from the action of aggressive agents.
Psoriasis is a non-infectious chronic disease that occurs in waves. It causes inconvenience to a person not only due to problems with the health of the body, but also from an aesthetic point of view. During the illness, the nails begin to peel and change color, and spots and wounds appear on the skin around the nail plate. Nail psoriasis can often cause pain. Treatment usually takes a lot of time and effort. People who are faced with this disease are usually concerned about how to treat nail psoriasis and what rules of behavior should be followed. You can find out the answers to them by reading this article.
Causes of psoriasis
Nail psoriasis occurs much less frequently than all other types of this disease. It can develop on the basis of existing lesions in certain areas of the skin or psoriatic arthritis, or it can be an independent disease.
Doctors still do not have a common opinion about the causes of psoriasis.
Causes of nail psoriasis may include the following:
- Prolonged stress.
- Metabolic disorder.
- Peripheral circulation disorders.
- Increased sensitivity to certain environmental factors.
- Inherited predisposition.
Nail psoriasis: symptoms
A disease such as psoriasis has been known for a long time. Back in the nineteenth century, the main signs characterizing nail damage in psoriasis were described, and the difficulties of diagnosis were also noted. Even then, doctors assumed that this disease had an isolated form. Nowadays, this assumption has been confirmed. In the case of vulgar psoriasis, damage to the nail plates can occur as a concomitant form, or it can also develop separately.
Diagnosis is made, for the most part, on the basis of diagnostics appearance nail plates of the hands and feet. Sometimes an additional biopsy and histological analysis of tissue from the affected areas is performed.
The main clinical manifestations of psoriasis are trachyonychia, onycholysis, subungual hemorrhages and the thimble symptom. The presence of any of them determines the specifics of what nail psoriasis looks like. Let's look at them in more detail.
Thimble symptom
Thimble is the most common type of nail psoriasis. The manifestation of this symptom is the appearance on the nails of small depressions of various shapes with a diameter of 0.5 to 2 mm. These pits appear due to pathological nail formation. They appear on the nail in a chaotic manner and resemble the outer surface of a thimble in appearance. Similar deformations of the nail plate also occur in the case of other dermatological diseases, but such pits can appear individually in healthy people.
Onycholysis
Onchiolysis is a nail lesion that also often occurs during psoriasis. During onchiolysis, the nail plate begins to separate smoothly and without accompanying pain and inflammation from the bed. According to the degree of its severity, this symptom, which often occurs with a disease such as nail psoriasis, can be complete or partial. In most cases, detachment begins at the distal edge, but central and lateral onchiolysis are also common.
When the nail plate begins to peel off, dirt, air and dust enter the resulting empty space. There are also particles of exfoliated epidermis located there, which is why the nail changes color to light gray, and in some cases to brown-yellow. Distinctive feature This form of psoriasis is a thin pink line around the affected area that becomes yellowish over time. Often during onchiolysis, the affected nails begin to emit an unpleasant odor.
Subungual hemorrhages
Doctors distinguish two subtypes of subungual hemorrhages, differing in their characteristics. The first type is characterized by the appearance of pink or red spots under the nail (“oil stain syndrome”). For the second class of symptoms, a feature is the appearance of elongated bruises resulting from ruptured capillaries. They range in color from bright red to brown and even black.
Trachyonychia
This is another type of nail psoriasis, which manifests itself in the form of changes in the color and texture of the nail plate: during trachyonychia, it becomes dull and rough, and the hole located at its base disappears. Sometimes during tracheonychia the nail seems to be pressed in the center: this pathology is called koilonychia. At the same time, at the very beginning of the disease, before acquiring such a curved shape, the nails become somewhat flattened. The tissues located under the nail do not undergo changes.
Nail psoriasis: treatment
This disease takes a long time to cure. The most important thing that should not be forgotten during therapy is the need to use integrated approach during treatment. Treatment of psoriasis of the fingernails and toenails is prescribed by a doctor in accordance with clinical picture the course of the disease, its severity, taking into account the patient’s body’s tendency to relapse, the presence of concomitant diseases and a person’s individual tolerance to certain medications. If the disease is at an early or middle stage, local medications are taken for treatment:
- Creams and ointments containing corticosteroids - Triacort, Triamcinolone, Prednisolone ointment. This is the main group of medications suitable for the treatment of psoriasis.
- Preparations containing vitamin D3 - "Tacalcinone", "Calcitriene" and others. They help inhibit the division of cells affected by the disease. They combine well with drugs containing betamethasone, for example, with Taklonex ointment.
- Tar or coal tar is a slightly weaker analogue of the drugs described in the paragraph above.
- Dermatotropic drugs - "Micanol", "Anthralin", "Dithranol". They slow down the division and formation of cells that form the manifestations of psoriasis and can contribute to stable and long-term remission of the disease.
- External retinoids - "Tazarotene", "Tazorak". They are effective for mild to moderate nail psoriasis.
- Salicylic acid - helps enhance the effect of other medications, relieves itching and plaque, and also exfoliates dead tissue.
- A solution of 5-fluorouracil, which is applied under a bandage around the finger. Requires a long treatment time - up to six months.
If treatment with local drugs is ineffective, the doctor selects a course of systemic therapy for the patient, which includes the following medications:
- "Cyclosporine" is enough effective remedy for the treatment of psoriasis of any degree of complexity. After completing a course of treatment, Neoral is required as maintenance therapy for two years. "Neoral" includes the same active ingredient as "Cyclosporine", but in a lower content.
- "Methotrexate" is a strong drug that is prescribed for generalization of the disease process. Before use, be sure to read the instructions: Methotrexate has a large number of side effects and contraindications.
- "Acitretin" and "Isotretinoin" are prescribed for severe and advanced forms of nail psoriasis.
- Antidepressants - used to reduce itching and stress reactions.
- Complexes of vitamins and minerals that enhance immunity. They must include elements such as calcium, zinc and selenium.
Modern methods of treating nail psoriasis
TO modern trends Treatments for nail psoriasis include:
- The use of multichannel antibodies, such as Rituximab and Ustekinumab. By contacting the immune system, they destroy immature cells that form manifestations of psoriasis.
- Use of biological response modifiers, for example, Alefacept. Such drugs selectively affect those cells of the immune system whose functions have been impaired.
- Necrosis blockers - Adadlimumab, Etanercept. They are used to treat advanced stages of psoriasis.
Physiotherapy for the treatment of psoriasis
The following physiotherapeutic methods for treating psoriasis are used:
- phototherapy, photochemotherapy;
- plasmapheresis;
- diathermy;
- hemosorption;
- excimer laser therapy.
Prevention of psoriasis
Psoriasis prevention measures that anyone can take include caring for their nails, not wearing nail polish, and not letting them grow too long; It is mandatory to use protective gloves when working with chemicals and to prevent injury to the nail plates.
Nail psoriasis: treatment with folk remedies
It often happens that many medicines cause allergies. These circumstances force us to resort to the following solution to such a problem as nail psoriasis: treatment folk remedies.
- Nail baths with bay leaves. To prepare the solution, pour 20 grams of bay leaf into two glasses of boiling water. Boil the resulting mixture for 10-12 minutes, let it cool and keep your nails in it for 10-15 minutes. The solution can also be taken orally: 40 milliliters 3 times a day.
- Lotions: mix 500 milliliters of water with 2 tablespoons of corn starch or oatmeal and apply to the affected area.
- Herbal baths made of sage, oak bark, string and celandine.
- Taking an infusion of St. John's wort, string, lingonberry leaves and calamus root also helps cure nail psoriasis. These herbs need to be mixed in equal parts, pour one spoon of the resulting mixture with a glass of boiling water and take 50 milliliters twice a day.
- Durushnik compresses: pour 4 tablespoons of crushed leaves into 500 milliliters of water, distribute the brewed herb evenly over the affected areas of the body, wrap cling film and hold for 15 minutes.
These folk remedies that eliminate nail psoriasis will be of great help to people who, due to certain circumstances, cannot take medications. But, nevertheless, before starting a course of treatment you still need to consult a doctor.
Diet for nail psoriasis
Treatment of nail psoriasis is impossible without following the necessary nutrition and diet. If possible, you should completely stop drinking alcohol and smoking. From food products During treatment, you must avoid fried, smoked and salty foods, fatty and dairy products, nuts, chocolate, citrus fruits, carbonated drinks, strong tea and coffee, as well as nightshade vegetables - eggplants, potatoes, tomatoes and sweet peppers.
The diet of a patient with psoriasis should include at least 30% acidic foods and about 70% alkaline foods. It is recommended to consume at least 2 liters of water per day, boiled cereals, lean meat and fish, vegetables, eggs, sweet fruits, juice and herbs.
Rules of conduct for psoriasis
In order to cure the disease as soon as possible, it is necessary to observe following rules behavior:
- Nails should be cut short and neat.
- When using household chemicals, you need to wear gloves on your hands.
- Prevent mechanical damage to nails, refuse manicures and pedicures.
- Lubricate your hands with a cream that nourishes your skin and nails.
- Make baths with herbs.
- Avoid stressful situations.
Now you know how to treat nail psoriasis, what symptoms it is accompanied by, and what precautions should be taken to prevent it.
Psoriasis on the fingernails and toenails causes more discomfort because the limbs are always visible. Therefore, the treatment of fingernail psoriasis requires special attention.
Psoriasis on the nails (photo 1) is a violation of the normal development of the nail itself. Psoriasis of the fingernails causes more discomfort because the hands are always visible. Therefore, the treatment of nail psoriasis is an extremely serious area, including traditional medicine.
What does nail psoriasis look like?
Nail psoriasis goes through the same stages as skin psoriasis. Symptoms of nail psoriasis(photo 2) determine by the nail bed, how infected it is, and by the nail plate itself. The nail is a skin appendage, and nail damage in psoriasis occurs according to the standard pattern.
Before reaching maturity, the cells divide and grow into non-dead cells, forming elevations and destroying the nails. Nail psoriasis (photo 3) in the initial stage causes slight clouding of the nail. Nail damage due to psoriasis is accompanied by the appearance of grooves on the nails. Nail psoriasis is a rather painful disease.
Psoriasis of fingernails
The final reason why appears fingernail psoriasis(photo 4), not detected. Only predisposing factors are identified: psycho-emotional stress, hormonal changes and so on (more details in the article on our website).
Therefore, fingernail psoriasis is considered a multifactorial disease. It is known that nail psoriasis mainly affects young people. Psoriasis of the fingernails often manifests itself as peeling of the nail itself. Psoriasis on the nails worsens in winter period much more often.
Psoriasis of toenails
Psoriasis on the toenails is quite similar to the disease on the hands. Only nail psoriasis of the feet (photo 5) has more unbearable itching. External symptoms of nail psoriasis are more pronounced, especially with regard to thickening of the nail plate and its deformation.
In case of insufficient treatment toenail psoriasis may lead to disability. To make a diagnosis, a biopsy is necessary, since psoriasis on the nails usually does not cause changes in the blood. Severe nail psoriasis causes leukocytosis.
Treatment of toenail psoriasis
Treatment of toenail psoriasis should be mandatory, since there is a real threat to health. Psoriasis on the nails greatly injures and deforms them, making them defenseless against other diseases. Treatment of nail psoriasis comes down to eliminating external symptoms (more details in our note on our website).
Truly effective drugs for the treatment of nail psoriasis still exist, although in very limited quantities. Treatment of toenail psoriasis occurs only comprehensively, after a diagnosis has been made by a specialist.
Treatment of fingernail psoriasis
New drugs have been developed for the treatment of nail psoriasis that affect cell immunity. Nail psoriasis is often chronic, so treatment of fingernail psoriasis should be especially strict. You need to cut your nails short and follow the rules of hygiene. Specific treatment of fingernail psoriasis is based on phototherapy. After analyzing the extent of nail damage, the doctor prescribes hormonal medications and gives recommendations for proper nutrition.
But nail psoriasis can be treated using only antiseptics. Treatment of fingernail psoriasis requires constant use of nourishing moisturizers for daily care.
How to treat nail psoriasis
Treatment of psoriasis on the nails has several directions. Local treatment of nail psoriasis mild forms occur with prednisolone ointment, Sinaflan, Triderm, Advantan. In these cases, nail psoriasis ointment represents the main treatment. Glucocorticosteroids are not used in this case.
How to treat nail psoriasis? Systemic involves suppressing the proliferation of nail cells and offers the latest generation of drugs. These are systemic retinoids: Acitretin, Etretinate, Cyclosporine and, which have quite a few contraindications and numerous side effects.
Before treating nail psoriasis with biological drugs, a thorough analysis is necessary. Biologic modifiers, such as Rituximab, can be fatal. Alefacept and Infliximab have moderate effectiveness. New drugs are being developed to treat nail psoriasis.
Treatment with folk remedies at home
Treatment of nail psoriasis at home begins with taking general medications. Treatment of nail psoriasis with intolerable itching occurs with antihistamines. Treatment of nail psoriasis with folk remedies involves the use of baths of decoctions and infusions of medicinal herbs. Before going to bed, when treating nail psoriasis at home, you need to apply various oils and creams to your nails.
Treatment of nail psoriasis with folk remedies using self-prepared egg oil is quite effective. Read more about home treatment in the article on our website.