Nail Problems

Your symptoms could indicate a fungal infection in the nail. This is a remarkably common condition and is caused by the same fungus that causes "athlete's foot." The nails may peel, become brittle and be a source of embarrassment because they look so discolored. Some people elect not to take treatment for this because: prescription antibiotics may eliminate the fungus but you may need to take them for many months; side effects are a concern (including interactions with other drugs, liver injury, gastrointestinal problems) and some are expensive. On the other hand, fungal infections are generally harmless so treatment decisions should take this into account.

If your symptoms persist, contact your physician.

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Online Medical Reviewer: LeWine, Howard MD Date Last Reviewed: 5/17/2006 Date Last Modified: 5/9/2006 Source: from Harvard Health Decision Guides, Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

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