Q. What causes loss of fingernails?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Losing fingernails can be caused by various factors, and it's often a signal that something might be going on with your body. Here are some common reasons:
1. Trauma or Injury: One of the most common reasons for losing fingernails is trauma or injury. If you accidentally hit your finger hard, crush it, or even slam it in a door, it can cause damage to the nail bed and lead to the nail falling off.
2. Infection: Fungal infections such as onychomycosis can weaken the nail structure, making them brittle and prone to breaking or falling off. Bacterial infections around the nail bed can also cause inflammation and eventual nail loss if left untreated.
3. Psoriasis: This is a chronic skin condition that can affect the nails, causing them to become thickened, discolored, and eventually shed.
4. Chemotherapy: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy can have a side effect of causing nails to become brittle and fall off. This happens because the treatment affects rapidly dividing cells, including those responsible for nail growth.
5. Nutritional Deficiencies: Not getting enough essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins can lead to weak and brittle nails that are more prone to breakage and loss.
6. Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like lupus and alopecia areata can affect the nails, causing them to become brittle, pitted, or fall off altogether.
7. Nail-Patella Syndrome: This is a genetic condition that affects the development of nails, among other things. People with this syndrome may have abnormally shaped or absent nails.
8. Chemical Exposure: Constant exposure to harsh chemicals, such as those found in certain cleaning products or nail polish removers, can weaken nails and make them more likely to break or fall off.
9. Thyroid Disorders: Imbalances in thyroid hormones can affect nail health. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can lead to brittle nails that are prone to breakage and loss.
If you're experiencing nail loss or any concerning changes in your nails, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.