Don’t ignore those tiny black dots under nails: Here’s what they could be telling you about your overall health
They may seem like small, inconsequential blemishes on the tips of your fingers and toes, but those tiny black dots under your nails could hold important clues about your overall health. Don’t brush them off as just a cosmetic issue – read on to discover what these little spots might be telling you about everything from nutrient deficiencies to serious medical conditions.
What are nail infections and what can they be signs of?
Nail infections are common and can be caused by a variety of things. The most common type is called onychomycosis, which is an infection of the nails caused by fungus. Other signs that you might have a nail infection include white spots or patches on the nails, a redness around the nail, and pain when you touch or put pressure on your finger or toes. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor.
If you think you may have a nail infection, there are some things you can do to try and treat it yourself. You should soak your nails in warm water with soap for at least 15 minutes each day to soften the fungus and make it easier to remove. You can also use over-the-counter antifungal treatments like clotrimazole (Lotrisone) or terbinafine (Lamisil). If these treatments don’t work, your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics like amoxicillin (Amoxil) or azithromycin (Zithromax).
How to treat nail infections effectively
If you’re noticing patches or black dots under nails, it could be a sign of an infection. When nail infections form, they can spread quickly through the nail and into the skin above. There are a few things that you can do to treat an infection effectively:
- Apply warm compresses to the infected area several times a day.
- Take over the counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed.
- Seek medical attention if the infection doesn’t improve after taking these steps.
What to do if you think you have a nail infection
If you are experiencing pain or swelling under your nails, it is important to speak to a doctor. While it may seem like a minor issue, nail infections can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. In cases where infection is suspected, a doctor will perform an ultrasound or blood test in order to identify the source of the infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment. If left untreated, a nail infection can spread to other parts of the body and lead to serious health issues such as pneumonia, sepsis and even death.
If you think you may have a nail infection, it is crucial that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. By following some simple tips for preventing nail infections and recognizing the signs and symptoms of infection, you can ensure that your health stays safe and sound.
What to do if you don’t think you have a nail infection
If you’ve been noticing black dots or colonies under your nails, don’t ignore them – they could be a sign of a more serious health problem. Here are four potential reasons why you might have a nail infection:
- Trauma to the nailbed: If you hit your finger or toe on something hard, the nail may break and bleed. This can cause bacteria on the skin around the nail to enter through the wound, and can lead to an infection.
- Using improper nail care products: Sometimes we use salon-grade products that aren’t appropriate for our everyday lives – for example, if you’re using a product containing acetone at home, it can damage your nails and contribute to an infection.
- Poor diet: If you aren’t getting enough vitamins and minerals, your body won’t be able to fight off infections as easily. And if there’s bacteria present in your nails, it will be easier for them to spread onto other parts of your body.
- Chronic illnesses: Certain chronic illnesses – like diabetes or arthritis – can make it difficult for your immune system to fight off infections correctly, which can lead to nail problems like fungal overgrowth or black dots under nails.
Conclusion
Nail health is one of the most often overlooked aspects of overall wellness, but it’s important to take a closer look at what those tiny black dots under your nails could be telling you about your overall health. If you notice that these black spots are growing in number and size, it might be time to see a doctor for an evaluation. By understanding the causes and effects of nail growth disorders, you can start to take steps to improve your overall health and well-being.
