Dr. Vijay Guleria, BPT MPT(Ortho) MSW. Physiotherapy advocate

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What Your Nails Tell About Your Health: A Doctor's Insights

Hi,


As a doctor, I've encountered numerous patients whose nails provide valuable clues about their overall health. While it's easy to overlook them as just a cosmetic feature, nails can actually serve as a window into various underlying health conditions. Let's delve into what your nails might be trying to tell you about your well-being.


1. Color Changes:


Pale Nails: Pale or whitish nails could indicate anemia or a lack of nutrients like iron.

Yellow Nails: Yellowing of nails may suggest a fungal infection or, in some cases, more serious conditions like lung disease or diabetes.

2. Texture and Thickness:


Brittle Nails: Brittle nails that frequently break or split may be a sign of thyroid issues or a deficiency in biotin, a B vitamin.

Thickened Nails: Thickened nails could be a sign of fungal infection or psoriasis, a skin condition that affects nails as well.

3. Nail Bed Changes:


Clubbed Nails: If the nails curve around the fingertips and the fingertips appear enlarged, it could indicate lung or heart disease.

Spoon-shaped Nails: Nails that are concave or spoon-shaped may be a sign of iron deficiency anemia.

4. Lines and Ridges:


Horizontal Ridging: Horizontal ridges or lines across the nails, known as Beau's lines, can be a result of severe illness, trauma, or malnutrition.

Vertical Ridges: Vertical ridges are common with aging, but could also signify nutrient deficiencies or underlying health conditions.

5. Nail Bed Discoloration:


Brown or Black Streaks: Dark streaks or lines on the nails could be a sign of melanoma, a type of skin cancer.

Blue Nails: Bluish nails could indicate poor circulation or a lack of oxygen in the blood.

6. Nail Plate Changes:


Pitting: Small depressions or pits in the nails may be a sign of psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis.

White Spots: Contrary to popular belief, white spots on nails are often due to minor injuries rather than a calcium deficiency.

7. Cuticle and Surrounding Skin:


Redness and Swelling: Inflammation around the nail could indicate an infection, such as paronychia or cellulitis.

Separation of Nail from Nail Bed: Separation of the nail from the nail bed, known as onycholysis, can occur due to trauma, fungal infection, or underlying medical conditions.

Conclusion:

While changes in nail appearance can sometimes be attributed to benign factors like aging or minor trauma, persistent or concerning nail abnormalities should not be ignored. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist or primary care physician, can help diagnose any underlying health issues and guide appropriate treatment. Remember, your nails can be more than just a fashion statement—they can be a valuable indicator of your overall health.