Onyychomalacia Pronounce: What You Need to Know

If you've ever had a toenail that was thick, discolored, or crumbly, you may have had onychomalacia. Onychomalacia is a condition that causes the nails to become soft and weak. It can affect one or more nails, and it is most common in toenails.

What Causes Onychomalacia?

- Onychomalacia can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

- Trauma: Injuries to the nail, such as stubbing your toe or wearing shoes that are too tight, can damage the nail matrix and lead to onychomalacia.
- Fungal infections: Fungal infections of the nail, such as onychomycosis, can also cause the nail to become soft and weak.
- Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a skin condition that can cause the nails to become thick, pitted, and discolored.
- Lichen planus: Lichen planus is a skin condition that can cause the nails to become thin, brittle, and ridged.
- Alopecia areata: Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that can cause the hair and nails to fall out.
- Medications: Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs and antibiotics, can cause the nails to become soft and weak.
- Aging: The nails tend to become thinner and more brittle as we age.

Symptoms of Onychomalacia

The symptoms of onychomalacia can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:

- Thickened nails
- Discolored nails
- Crumbling nails
- Pain and tenderness
- Bleeding
- Paronychia, which is an infection of the nail fold

Treatment for Onychomalacia

The treatment for onychomalacia will depend on the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. However, if the onychomalacia is caused by an infection, medication may be prescribed to clear up the infection. If the onychomalacia is caused by trauma, the nail may need to be trimmed or removed.