The Destruction

“Onychophagia [is] the destruction of fingernails or toenails by means of habitual biting.” (Anonymous)

Onychoschizia or splitting of the fingernails is a common problem seen by dermatologists. The term includes splitting, brittle, soft or thin nails. Onychoschizia is more common in women. Brittle nails can be divided into dry and brittle (too little moisture) and soft and brittle (often too much moisture). The specific condition onychorrhexis refers to an ailment that causes lengthwise ridges on the surface of the nail.

Symptoms of brittle nails include reduced strength in the toenail, easy breakage, toenails that may be thicker due to an abnormal production of keratin, toenails that are dry and crumble, color changes in the toenail, white spots appearing on the nail bed, and ridges that form on the nail bed. There are a variety of causes for brittle toenails given below:

·        Hypothyroidism(underactive thyroid)

·        Vitamin deficiencies and nutritional problems

·        Overuse of chemical products including nail polish

·        Excessive exposure to strong soap

·        Older age

·        Fungus

·        Raynaud’s phenomenon, which causes blood circulation to be limited to the fingers and the toes

·        Psoriasis, eczema, and other skin conditions

·        Lichen planus, which is a non-contagious skin rash

·        Hormonal dysfunctions

·        Reactive arthritis

·        Eating disorders as they contribute to vitamin deficiencies

·        Solvents to remove nail polish

·        Keeping feet in water for prolonged periods

Be gentle to your nails. Shape and file the nails with a very fine file and round the tips in a gentle curve. Daily filing of snags or irregularities helps to prevent further breakage or splitting. Avoid metal instruments on the nail surface to push back the cuticle. If the nails are buffed do this in the same direction as the nail grows and not in a back and forth motion because this can cause nail splitting.

The vitamin Biotin is beneficial for some people. Get the Biotin ultra 1 mg size and take it 2 to 3 times a day. It takes at least 6 months to work, but it is a successful solution. Do not take this if you are pregnant. Calcium, colloidal minerals, and gelatin may also help. 

 “The shape and color of your nails can determine your health.” (www.lovethispic.com)[i]

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[i] Sources used:

·        “Brittle Nails” by AOCD

·        “Brittle toenails: Causes and home remedies” by. Victor Marchione

·        “Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)” by Mayo Clinic

The topic for this post was suggested by my wife, Bobbi.