Why do your fingernails hurt?

1. Ingrown fingernails. This is a common condition that occurs when the nail grows into the surrounding skin. It can be painful and cause inflammation and infection.

2. Hangnails. These are small, torn pieces of skin that hang from the nail bed. They can be painful and can easily become infected.

3. Paronychia. This is an infection of the nail bed, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including fungal infections, bacteria, and trauma. Paronychia can be painful and may cause swelling, redness, and drainage.

4. Onycholysis. This is a condition in which the nail separates from the nail bed. Onycholysis can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, infections, and certain medications. It can be painful and may cause the nail to appear discolored or brittle.

5. Subungual hematoma. This is a bruise under the nail, which can be caused by trauma, such as dropping something heavy on the foot. Subungual hematomas can be painful and may cause the nail to appear black or purple.

6. Nail biting. Biting your nails can damage the nail bed and cause pain. It can also increase your risk of infection.

7. Trauma. Traumatic injuries to the fingernail, such as stubbing your toe or getting your finger caught in a door, can cause pain. Trauma can also damage the nail bed and cause permanent nail damage.

8. Fungal infections. Fungal infections of the nail, also known as onychomycosis, can cause pain, nail discoloration, and thickening.

9. Psoriasis. Psoriasis is a skin condition that can affect the nails, causing pain, pitting, and discoloration.

10. Cancer. In rare cases, pain in the fingernails can be a sign of cancer, such as a squamous cell carcinoma of the nail bed.