Nailed It

I nailed it when I self-diagnosed myself with a common fingernail problem, Onychoschizia. The condition is just a fancy name for splitting fingernails.

Your fingernails can provide clues to your overall health.  Are your nails healthy, or are you sending you a health warning?

Let’s examine why I may have splitting/peeling nails.
1.  Climate Changes – sudden changes in weather
2.  Dietary Issues – some think lack of protein contributes to thin nails
3.  Prescription Medications – some medicines have a drying effect
4.  Psoriasis, Yeast Infections or Other Skin Conditions- adverse events
5.  Chemical Exposure – not wearing gloves while using harsh cleansers when cleaning your home.
6.  Immersion in Water—Water swells and separates the layers of the nail plate. If you keep rewetting the nails, they never dry properly.
7.  Post-Fake Nail Trauma – Acrylic or gel nails
8. The Wrong Kind of Nail Treatments—Nail strengtheners and peeling nail solutions contain many chemicals.

I am not one for nail art, acrylic, or gel nails. My self-diagnosis includes the possibility of why I think I have splitting nails. Daily mega-dose use of antibacterial gel and excessive hand washing might significantly contribute to my condition and the cold winter temperatures. I touch every dirty doorknob in Central Pennsylvania when I visit medical practices. I believe these procedures are my proactive approach to keeping my germ level at bay.

Interesting fact:  New York City is the birthplace of the nail salon.  The first American nail manicurist, Mary E. Cobb, opened “Mrs Pray’s Manicure” in 1878. New York now has over 1,000 nail salons; my favorite place to enjoy a manicure is when visiting my daughter in Manhattan. All the while, New York nail salons are under investigation for unfair treatment of their technicians, but that’s another story.

According to 2013 statistics, the nail polish industry represents $768 million. That’s a staggering 32% increase from the year before. No surprise with collaborations with movie debuts, colors designed by artists and movie stars, and novel ways of making nail color last longer with gels and at-home products.

The beauty market is greatly enhanced, with nail products being an affordable luxury for anyone. Regardless of age and economics, most women experiment with fashion with nail polish. The next time you go to the nail salon or even if you do your manicure, take notice of your nails. What are your nails saying about your health?

I hope you don’t have irregularities with your fingernails, but if you do, no physician is needed; you can nail it yourself.

Have a wonderful week!