Psoriasis of the nail: symptoms and best treatments

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Psoriasis of the nail: what is it exactly?

In France, 2% to 3% of the population suffers from psoriasis. This inflammatory skin disease results from an accelerated renewal of cells in the epidermis.

In detail: in patients, immune cells present in the skin secrete inflammatory molecules which stimulate the proliferation of skin cells. Result: these are renewed in just 3 days, compared to a month for non-diseased skin.

Psoriasis is a chronic disease that progresses in “flare-ups” (or “fits”) interspersed with remissions (these are periods when the signs of the disease partially or completely disappear). During crises, we observe the appearance of skin lesions: red “patches” well delimited which peel (desquamation), possibly with itching or a burning sensation.

To know. Psoriasis does not only affect the skin: you can also have psoriasis of the fingernail. ” People with psoriasisnail often have lesions on the skin and / or mucous membranes: but it is also possible to have psoriasis only on the nails “remarks Dr. Isabelle Gallay, dermatologist.

Psoriasis of the nail: what are the symptoms?

Toenail psoriasis (which can manifest itself in the fingernails and / or toenails) is characterized by (among others) the following symptoms:

  • One or more yellow nail (s): there are yellowish “sparks” inside the nail, as if there were “arrows” of pus under the nail,
  • The affected nail (s) are painful,
  • The affected nail (s) are deformed,
  • The affected nail (s) appear to be “peeled off”,
  • The affected nail (s) become more opaque,
  • The affected nail (s) present streaks,
  • The skin under the nails looks thicker.

To know. Psoriasis of the nail is often confused with onychomycosis (also known as “nail fungus”): ” the main difference is that the psoriasis of the nail has a sawtooth evolution: the nail will turn yellow, deform … during a period of stress, fatigue or annoyance, then return ( more or less) to normal “explains Dr. Isabelle Gallay.

Psoriasis of the nail: what treatments are available?

To know. ” The psoriasis is a disease that can be extremely debilitating, even disabling on a daily basis: when the toenails are affected, for example, we can observe patients who can sometimes no longer put on their shoes or even walk “emphasizes the dermatologist.

“ The psoriasis of the nail is quite difficult to treat “notes Dr. Isabelle Gallay. The treatment is essentially local with the daily application of topical corticosteroids in prolonged massage (anti-inflammatory drugs and local corticosteroids).

” At the same time, the dermatologist will prescribe a protective and moisturizing varnish to hydrate the nail and protect the skin barrier. “adds the specialist. In addition, new oral treatments (such as biotherapies) show a certain effectiveness.

Psoriasis of the nail: 3 natural remedies to try

In addition to the treatment prescribed by the dermatologist and only after medical advice, these additional treatments can help in the event of psoriasis of the nail:

  • Homeopathy. Take 3 granules per day of Sepia 7 CH during seizures, until improvement. During remission, take 3 granules per day (6 days a week) of Zincum Metallicum 5 CH if the psoriasis flare-ups usually occur as part of nervous fatigue.
  • Aromatherapy. In a bottle, mix 30 drops of essential oil of rose geranium (regenerating) + 30 drops of essential oil of green mandarin (soothing) and 8 tbsp. to c. (40 mL) rosehip vegetable oil (restorative). This mixture is used in prolonged massage on the affected nails, once a day.
  • Naturopathy. Against psoriasis (of the nail, but not only), naturopaths recommend several cures of aloe vera per year, at the rate of 1 tsp. to s. of fresh organic pulp 2 to 3 times a day for 3 weeks. Aloe vera notably has an anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating action on the lining of the intestine.

Thanks to the Dr. Isabelle Gallay, dermatologist in Dijon (21) and Vice President of SNDV (National Syndicate of Dermatology Venerology).

Sources:

Health Insurance

The great book of homeopathy – Dr. Dominique-Jean Sayous, ed. Eyrolles.

The Living Earth guide to essential oils – Dr. Françoise Couic-Marinier, ed. Living Earth.

The Living Earth guide to natural health – Dr. Christine Cieur, ed. Living Earth.

Read also :

⋙ Psoriasis: are there foods to avoid in a crisis?

⋙ The Mediterranean diet to fight against psoriasis

⋙ Natural treatments for psoriasis