Changes to the toenails can be a fairly common occurrence during chemotherapy.
A common problem isonycholysis, or damage to the tissue in the nail bed that keeps toenails in place.
Common Toenail Problems During Chemotherapy
When onycholysis occurs, it is usually painless.
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Fingernail issues usually resolve around six months after completing chemotherapy, but toenails can take longer to recover.
Practicing good nail care is the best bet.
Complications
Even when practicing prevention, other problems such as fungal or bacterial infections may occur.
This can be especially concerning when getting chemotherapy medications that can reduce infection-fighting white blood cells.
Examine nails daily to look for any changes.
You may need antibiotics, antifungal creams, or some other form of treatment.
Tea tree oil has been used for fungal infections in toenails, but an anti-fungal medication may be needed.
To keep your toenails healthy during treatment and recovery, try these tips.
Cut Your Nails Safely
Clip toenails straight across, keeping them short.
This helps prevent breakage and splitting, as well as ingrown toenails.
It also makes them less likely to catch on things.
Keep your toenails clean and moisturized.
Your healthcare provider may recommend that you avoid pedicures, as these can lead to infection.
Loose cuticles should be cut, not ripped.
Strengthen Your Toenails
Taking a biotin supplement may help strengthen fragile nails.
Biotin is a B-complex vitamin, but talk to your oncologist before starting.
Somevitamin supplements may interfere with chemotherapy.Clear polish may also help protect toenails during treatment.
Prevent Injuries
make a run at avoid injuries to your toes.
Limitwalking around barefoot, and see to it to watch for any obstacles in your way.
Think about the footwear you use and make good choices that are most likely to protect your feet.
But also don’t wear shoes or socks that fit too tightly.
venture to prevent nail changes by trimming nails carefully, and avoiding injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may not be able to completely prevent nails from falling off during chemo.
Chemotherapy will not likely cause nails to be thicker.
In fact, it tends to make them thinner and more brittle.
However, about six months or so after chemo, the nails can start to show improvement.
American Cancer Society.Nail changes.
2018;32(10):516-20.
National Cancer Institute.Skin and nail changes during cancer treatment.
Alzahrani MF, AlJasser MI.Nail changes during chemotherapy.New England Journal of Medicine.
2018;379(16):1561. doi:10.1056/NEJMicm1801702
