Overview
Nail changes can be a characteristic of certain diseases. Most of the nail infections are acquired. It can be due to fungal infections, psoriasis, eczema, contact dermatitis, lichen planus, alopecia areata or alopecia totalis. Paronychia is another rare but severe infection of the nail commonly caused by Staphylococcus. There are acute and chronic condition. In the acute condition, the pain will be extreme. There will also be formation of abscess and discharge from the nails. However, the most common nail infection is the fungal infection of the nail. The infection can affect one or multiple nails. Although non-specific, some of the characteristics of an infected nail are thickened nails, whitish to yellow-brown discolouration, brittle nails, distorted nails, darkened nails, and foul-smelling nails. Generally, nail infections are not very serious or severe, however, in some cases it may affect the quality of life of a person, and cause a degree of discomfort. If that's the case, one should approach the doctor as the doctor will prescribe some medications depending on the underlying cause.
