Nail pitting is a common condition that causes small, round depressions to form on the nails. It is not a serious condition and it is not contagious. There are a few things that can cause nail pitting, but none of them are contagious.
Causes of Nail Pitting
The following are some of the causes of nail pitting:
- Trauma: Nail pitting can be caused by trauma to the nail, such as stubbing your finger or hitting your nail with a hammer. The force of the injury can damage the nail matrix, which is the tissue that produces nails. This damage can lead to the formation of pits in the nails.
- Infections: Nail pitting can be caused by fungal or bacterial infections. These infections can damage the nail matrix and lead to the formation of pits in the nails.
- Medical conditions: Nail pitting can be a symptom of some medical conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, and alopecia areata. These conditions can damage the nail matrix and lead to the formation of pits in the nails.
- Medications: Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, can damage the nail matrix and lead to the formation of pits in the nails.
- Heredity: Nail pitting can also run in families. If your parents or siblings have nail pitting, you are more likely to develop it yourself.
Is Nail Pitting Contagious?
As you can see, none of the causes of nail pitting are contagious. This means that you cannot catch nail pitting from someone else.
Nail Pitting and Other Conditions
Nail pitting is often associated with other conditions, such as:
- Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause the rapid buildup of skin cells. Nail pitting is a common symptom of psoriasis, and it can affect both fingernails and toenails.
- Eczema: Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes inflammation and itching. Nail pitting is a less common symptom of eczema, but it can occur in some people.
- Alopecia areata: Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss. Nail pitting is a less common symptom of alopecia areata, but it can occur in some people.
Treatment for Nail Pitting
In most cases, nail pitting does not require treatment. However, if you are concerned about the appearance of your nails, there are some things you can do to improve their appearance:
- Use a nail strengthener: A nail strengthener can help to make your nails stronger and less likely to break.
- Avoid nail biting: Nail biting can damage your nails and make nail pitting worse.
- Keep your nails trimmed short: This will help to prevent further damage to your nails.
- Apply a coat of clear nail polish: A coat of clear nail polish can help to protect your nails and make them look healthier.
If you are concerned about your nail pitting, it is a good idea to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. However, if your nail pitting is not caused by an underlying condition, there is no need to worry about it being contagious.