Pain vs. 'Unsightly Nails'

Note as we work on the PC Project goals which include a Registry and a questionnaire to find information which will be useful to researchers, we've had some discussion as to what the major problems are for PC patients. Here is Jan's informal response. We'd like to hear your informal comments as well - please send us your thoughts on this to info@pachyonychia.org. PC Project Webmaster.

PC. As to the pain verses 'unsightly nail' issue, I'm not absolutely certain, but I've always thought there are degrees of severity to PC. In other words, side effects such as sores on the feet may not be as bad or even not there at all for some with PC. Many years ago I was told by a doctor that my case was one of the most severe. I can't remember which Dr. and have no documentation - it's just been in the back of my head. If that's true, it really could mean the nails are the most disturbing thing. I've corresponded with a woman who had the nails removed -- a painful procedure which I've opted not to do. I also heard from a mom whos child's PC nail got caught in the car air vent because the nails were so long. It surprised me that someone could let that become such a problem as we clip and trim daily. I guess the point is, there are people out there with nail issues and they may be more prominent particularly if side effects such as painfully sore feet aren't severe. As a teenager and younger, I hated the looks of my nails, as do my young boys do now. For example, for Nate (age 6) right now, the nails are a big consideration. But when his feet start hurting like Sam's (age 8), the nails will probably take back burner. Also, as a more confident adult and in a secure relationship with a man who loves me, t he nails are so secondary, I hardly notice them. But I can see people perhaps in a different situation really struggling over the nails. I continually hid my nails throughout the dating scene and in social situations. And I still sometimes get annoyed when strangers in public places loudly ask me what's wrong with my nails - like a checker with a long line of people behind me who stopped everything to inquire about my nails. What are your thoughts?