Nail care

Nail care: Many nail problems are due to poor nail care. Good nail habits help keep nails healthy. The following recommendations are designed for good nail care: Keep nails clean and dry to keep bacteria and other infectious organisms from collecting under the nails. Soak toenails that are thick and difficult to cut in warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt to a pint of water) for 5-10 minutes and apply a 10 percent urea cream(available at the drug store without a prescription) and then trim the toenails. Nails should be cut straight across and rounded only slightly at the tip. Use sharp nail scissors or clippers. Use a "fine" textured file to keep nails shaped and free of snags. Do not bite your nails. It's not good for them. Do not "dig out" ingrown toenails, especially if they are sore. Seek treatment from a doctor. Nail changes, swelling and pain can signal a serious problem. Report any nail irregularities to your doctor. These recommendations are adapted from ones of the American Academy of Dermatology.