Hapalonichiacommonly known as eggshell nails, is a chronic condition that causes nails to become soft, thin and weak. Nails are usually very thin, like an eggshell.
Aging is a common cause of thinning nails. Other possible causes of eggshell nails include environmental exposures, insufficient nutrient intake, and certain chronic health conditions.
Symptoms of eggshell nails include one or more nails that are very thin and brittle. Nails can break or tear easily. Treatment options for eggshell nails vary depending on the underlying cause, and there are several options for dealing with eggshell nails.
There are several types of nail abnormalities. The health of your nails can give a clue about your overall health. Many nail problems are related to chronic health conditions or nutrient deficiencies. Some common nail abnormalities include:
- Onycholysis: It occurs when the nail begins to lift from the finger
- Paronychia: A nail infection that can cause redness and swelling or a greenish, black color
- Koilonichia: It causes the nails to look scooped out like a spoon
- Clubbing: It happens when the nails bend and become inflamed
Eggshell nails are often a symptom of another health problem, and symptoms can vary. Eggshell nails can be:
- thin: It may be noticeably thinner than normal
- Unusually smooth: Extra thin nails can also be smoother
- Weak and brittle: They may lack strength, making them prone to splitting, tearing, chipping, or breaking
- Soft and flexible: It can be easily bent with minimal pressure
- Color changes: It may have a bluish tint or be abnormally pale or transparent
- Curved or deformed: It may bend downwards or have an otherwise unusual shape
Eggshell nails occur when the nails become very thin and weak. Nail condition and weakness can occur naturally due to aging, but other factors can weaken and irritate your nails over time. Other possible causes of eggshell nails include:
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- Environmental irritations: The most common cause of eggshell nails is exposure to environmental factors such as cold, dry weather or repeated wetting and drying. Exposure to chemicals in some detergents, cleaning fluids, and acetone nail polish removers can also cause damage and weakness.
- Requirements for nails: Certain chronic skin conditions can cause nail changes such as weakness and thinness. Lichen planus (LP) is an inflammatory skin condition that causes the immune system to attack the nails. Nail psoriasis is a form psoriasis which causes dry, weak nails.
- Iron deficiency: A lack of iron in the blood causes less oxygen to reach the nails, which can lead to weakened nails.
- Nutrient deficiencies: Low vitamin B, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids can lead to dry, thin nails. Other symptoms may include dry skin and fatigue.
- thyroid disease: The thyroid gland is a gland in the neck that secretes hormones and can affect your metabolism. An underactive (hypothyroid) or overactive (hyperthyroid) thyroid gland affects skin and nail health and can lead to eggshell nails.
- Raynaud’s phenomenon: This chronic condition causes the blood vessels in the hands and feet to overreact to cold weather and stress. Raynaud’s phenomenon also reduces blood flow to the nails and can lead to eggshell nails.
- Cancer treatment: Chemotherapy and immunotherapy can stop nail growth and affect nail health.
Eggshell nails are often a symptom of an underlying medical condition. When you visit your doctor, he will help you determine the cause through various examinations and diagnostic tests.
Your doctor will begin with a physical exam to examine your nails and look for any other signs or symptoms of disease. They will also ask about your health history, current medications and supplements, dietary habits, family history, and lifestyle choices (eg, frequent manicures).
In addition to a physical exam and medical history, your doctor may perform the following diagnostic tests:
- Blood tests: Your doctor may order blood tests to detect iron deficiency anemia and other nutrient deficiencies. They will also likely check your thyroid hormone levels.
- Nail culture: Your doctor may take a small nail sample if they suspect a nail infection.
- Skin biopsy: If your doctor suspects that your nail changes are related to skin cancer, he may recommend a biopsy.
The recommended treatment for eggshell nails depends on the cause. Addressing the underlying medical condition can reduce nail damage. Here are some common treatment options.
Protection from environmental factors
Protect your hands from environmental irritants by wearing good quality gloves or mittens in cold, dry weather. Avoid direct contact with chemicals and any other irritants. Wear gloves when handling cleaners, take a break from painting your nails, and avoid acetone to remove nail polish.
Diet and nutrition
Work with a health care professional or dietitian to change your diet or incorporate supplements, especially if you have nutrient deficiencies. They can help you get the nutrients you’re missing through food or supplements.
Medicines
Talk to your doctor about changing medications, especially if your current prescription is the culprit. It may be possible to change the treatment or medication.
If you are undergoing chemotherapy or immunotherapy for cancer, your care team may recommend nail treatments that you can do while you are taking your medication.
Good nail care
In addition to treating the underlying cause, you can improve eggshell nails with good nail care. Consider incorporating the following practices into your daily routine:
- Moisturize your hands, feet and nails every day
- Keep your nails clean and dry throughout the day
- File, shape and trim your nails to keep them short
- Avoid biting or picking your nails
- Resist pulling on the nails or other weak parts of the nails
- Use a nail strengthener every day
- Consider taking a biotin supplement, which has been found to strengthen nails
Eggshell nails are often a symptom of a chronic medical condition and cannot always be prevented. The best way to reduce the risk of eggshell nails is to practice nail care at home by avoiding contact with harsh chemicals and protecting your nails from cold and dry air.
Wear gloves when handling household cleaners or chemicals and do not use acetone to remove nail polish. Keep your nails short and dry.
Eggshell nails, known as hapalonychia, occur when the nails become very thin and brittle, similar to eggshells. Nails are often brittle, weak and soft.
Possible causes of eggshell nails include environmental exposures, nutritional deficiencies, and chronic health conditions. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and may include lifestyle and dietary changes and supplements. Your provider will also recommend good nail care.