About 50% of people with psoriasis experience changes in the appearance of their nails, reports the Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance. Nail problems are even more common among those living with psoriatic arthritis. Both forms of psoriasis are chronic and may cause flare-ups followed by periods of remission.
Psoriasis can affect one or more areas of your body, such as your elbows, knees, or hands. Its primary symptoms include patches of red skin covered with silvery scales, as well as itching, cracked skin, or swollen joints, explains the Mayo Clinic. Nail psoriasis, a less common form of the disease, causes pitting and discoloration of your fingernails and toenails. Over time, your nails may become looser and begin to crumble.
Nail psoriasis has three primary symptoms, points out the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). These include nail pitting, separation, and white discoloration. You may also see a thin line of blood under your fingernails or toenails. Some of these symptoms may also indicate a nail infection, warns the AAD. That's why it's important to have your nails examined by a dermatologist as soon as you notice any changes.
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