Why do toenails thicken with age

Fungal infections often grow in toenails because they thrive in warm, moist environments. They are easily spread and can develop quickly, causing many of the symptoms described above. To avoid fungal infections, people should avoid walking around barefoot in public places, especially locker rooms and showers, and by keeping footwear dry.

Some people are more prone to fungal infections than others. Some of the leading causes of fungal infections in the toenails include:. Toenails can thicken as a result of sudden or repeated trauma or injury. Mostly, this happens to people involved in sport or exercise, such as soccer players, runners, and dancers, but also to people with ill-fitting shoes.

This less-common cause of thick nails affects both fingernails and toenails. The condition causes the nails to yellow and become curved and thickened. A person with yellow nail syndrome often experiences respiratory problems and swelling in the arms and legs due to a buildup of fluid around the lungs and in the limbs.

Although doctors do not know the exact cause of yellow nail syndrome, some believe there is a strong genetic connection. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that typically causes red, scaly patches on the skin. Psoriasis of the nails often accompanies the skin disorder, affecting both the fingernails and toenails. When psoriasis is the direct cause of thickened nails, a person is likely to develop ridges on the nails, and the nails may loosen and separate from the nail bed.

Paronychia is a skin condition that causes redness and swelling around the nail. Over time and multiple infections, both fingernails and toenails may become thick. A person may notice that layers of the nail start to peel off. People are more likely to develop paronychia from frequently sucking on their fingers, dishwashing, and trimming the nails or cuticles too much.

Several occupations are also more of a risk for developing thick nail due to paronychia. These jobs include:. Aging may cause the toenails, as well as the fingernails, to thicken. Often, as a person ages, the nails on their toes start to thicken. Though the condition is most common on the toenails, it is possible for the fingernails to thicken also.

It is thought that the nails thicken as people get older because the body is not as able to renew itself as it was at a younger age. The thick nails and the ridges that form on the nail as a result of aging are not treatable.

They can be buffed slightly, however, to smooth out their appearance. Thick nails are not likely to cause further complications, although, if left untreated, they will continue to worsen, may cause pain, and may make wearing footwear uncomfortable. Complications from the pre-existing conditions that caused the thick nails are, however, likely to follow. For example, thick nails may be an additional complication acquired by a person who has underlying diabetes.

Since underlying conditions often cause thick nails, a person should consult a doctor if they notice their fingernails or toenails thickening or changing color. Someone with an underlying condition, such as diabetes or psoriasis, may well be treating it already.

Being experts in ingrown toenail treatment means that we effectively help to prevent ingrown toenails too , which means managing thickened nails. This is something our patients love, often feeling much happier and more confident about the appearance of their toenails afterwards. Most people book appointments for this care every weeks, depending on how quickly their nails grow.

By regularly taking care of their toenails and any corns and calluses on their feet , we are able to help prevent ingrown toenails too, for those vulnerable to thickened nails growing into the skin. Book your appointment online here or call us on 09 Tagged in: auckland podiatrist , auckland toenail specialist , Remuera podiatrist , thick toenails , why do nails get thicker.

Phone : 09 email : info ingrowntoenail. Why Do Toenails Thicken? What causes nails to thicken? Listed below are some of them:. Diminishing blood circulation due to age also means there are less antibodies and red blood cells in the body to help fight against infections. What can you do to help minimise thickening of your toenails?

Burr- metal instrument podiatrist use to thin toenails. Why is it important to look after our feet as we age?