what would cause a hole in my nail - Nail Problems Message Board

ma999 · 02-17-2008, 10:37 AM

I have a hole in my forefinger, which started at the cuticle line, and, it continues to grow. It appears that the nail cont to grow, but, not at the hole. another, annoying thing, does grow, trying to cover it up. I keep cutting that back. And, it does seen like there is a hard, uneven surface under the hole. There was no trauma to the nail, and, I did not add any new chemicals to my routine. It may have started shortly after cleaning my aquarium, which I have had for yrs.... Mary

Marti · 02-17-2008, 07:15 PM

Your aquarium is chock FULL of bacteria and I am guessing that youmay have had a tiny break to the seal surrounding the nail unit and one of these nasty little 'germs' got in there. There is ALWAYS a reason for damage to the nail plate. I think you should see your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Don't cut anything away as I am guessing that what you keep cutting away is the nail bed that is poking up through the hole. Continuing to cut this away can cause permanent damage to the nail bed. See your doctor!

gorgee · 02-18-2008, 07:31 AM

Ma999, My husband has this on a couple of his nails. He has psoriasis on his skin, and it moved to his nails. It looks like what you are explaining. Good luck.

Marti · 02-19-2008, 11:37 AM

Psoriasis of the nails looks like tiny little pin dot depressions in the nail plate. Thisperson says that there is something sticking up through the hole. I think it is different. Either way, they need to go to their doctor.

ma999 · 02-19-2008, 05:20 PM

Marti, several wks ago, I had a podiatrist look at it while at work, as a professional courtesy, and he said that the little thing that was growing out was a new nail trying to cover it, and, to cut it back to keep it from catching on things. He also said that if there is no damage to the nail bed, that the nail would just grow out. That is not happening. I forgot to mention that I work in a rehab center, and, I am probably a walking germ. And, the same day that I cleaned my tank, I cleaned 3 bird cages, and the house. No new chemicals though. But, I did use bleach, diluted in water. I am only guessing that that is what could have caused this. I have an apt next wed to see a podiatrist outside of work. Mary