What causes skin to split under a growing nail?

I have a question. Ever since I have had the acrylic tips done, my nails have never been the same. I have only had it done twice. And I never got them refilled. I just waited until they grew out. I don't currently have fake nails. What is happening now is only on my right thumb. When I remember to take my calcium, my nails grow quickly. I do my own manicures & pedicures. It's hard to describe what is going on but I will do my best. On my right thumb on the outside near the tip, I always get a split in my skin. And this only happens when I let my thumb nail grow. It really hurts. What could be causing this? What can I do to stop it from happening? The skin around the split usually gets tough like toe skin, so I cut it off. I think this is making matters worse though. I am at a loss as to how to deal with this issue. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
This can be due to paronychia. Paronychia results from a breakdown of the protective barrier between the nail and the nail fold.

Treatment includes warm water soaks of the affected finger 3-4 times per day, oral antibiotics, topical antifungals and surgical intervention in more severe cases. My sincere advice would be to consult a dermatologist. Since it has not responded well to antifungals, so surgical intervention may be needed.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.