Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS website.
Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or view any of our Previous A to Z Features.
You should also know that OutUK has produced a special report about: Coronavirus Covid-19.

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This Week - N : Nail Problems

Nail problems are not 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
  • 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 to look after your nails

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

  • apply hand cream to your nails and fingertips regularly

  • trim your nails regularly (it may help to cut them after a shower or bath)

  • cut injured, loose nails back to where they are still attached, so they do not bend or catch on objects

Don't

  • do not cut your nails down the edges, and only 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:

  • a nail has changed shape, changed colour or fallen off and you do not know why
  • the skin around your nails has become sore, red, swollen and warm (paronychia), which can be a sign of an infection or ingrown toenail

See a podiatrist if:

  • your nails are too tough to cut or you cannot reach them

Some GPs may be able to refer you to a footcare specialist (podiatrist). You can also pay to see a podiatrist privately.

 
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