Your Nails May Be Signaling an Underlying Health Issue
Thinking about the health of your nails? Read this article to learn what your nails may be telling you about your overall health. Your Nails May Be Signaling an Underlying Health Issue Your nails are an important part of your body and can provide valuable information about your overall health. Changes in their appearance, texture, color, and strength can be an early warning sign of an underlying health issue. In this blog, we'll discuss the various nail changes that can indicate health problems and what you can do to maintain healthy nails. Characteristics of Healthy Nails Healthy nails should have a smooth surface with no ridges, dents, or grooves. They should be strong, flexible, and have a pinkish-white color. If your nails look yellow, thick, and have a brittle texture, it may be a sign of a fungal infection or another underlying health issue. Factors Affecting Nail Health There are many factors that can affect nail health, both internal and external. Internal factors include nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and medical conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, and anemia. External factors include exposure to chemicals, frequent use of nail polish, and frequent immersion in water. Nail Changes and Their Implications There are several nail changes that can indicate a health problem. For example, white spots on the nails can be a sign of a fungal infection or a zinc deficiency. Brittle nails may indicate a deficiency in biotin, a B vitamin that is important for nail health. Spoon-shaped nails can be a sign of iron-deficiency anemia, and clubbed nails may indicate heart or lung problems. Pitted nails can be a sign of psoriasis, eczema, or other skin conditions. What Nail Changes Can Indicate About Your Health Nail changes can provide important clues about the state of your health. For example, if you have white spots on your nails, it may indicate a fungal infection or a zinc deficiency. Brittle nails can be a sign of a biotin deficiency, and spoon-shaped nails can indicate iron-deficiency anemia. Clubbed nails may indicate heart or lung problems, while pitted nails can be a sign of psoriasis, eczema, or other skin conditions. Changes in Color Changes in nail color can be an indication of many underlying health issues. White spot on the nails can signify a fungal infection. Brittle and yellow nails can be caused by aging, nutritional deficiencies, or anemia. Bluish nails could indicate problems with circulation or oxygenation, while brown lines may be caused by trauma to the nail bed or melanoma. Any changes in color should prompt you to consult your doctor. Unusual Thickness Nails can become thicker due to a variety of health issues. If there is an increase in the thickness, it could be caused by psoriasis, thyroid disease, or low calcium levels. A lack of oxygen can also cause your nails to thicken as well as turn yellow or blue. Meanwhile, cancerous tumors can cause clubbing, where the nail grows around and eventually covers the fingertips. If you notice any changes in nail thickness, be sure to speak with a medical professional. Pitting and Fungal Nail Infections Pitting is a common symptom of psoriasis and can cause small dents in the nails. Fungal nail infections, like psoriasis, can also cause thickening and discoloration of nails. Sometimes fungal infections manifest as a white or yellow spot just under the nailu2019s tip or other debris built up on the nail. Speaking with your doctor if you notice these changes is important to properly care for your nails and your health. Vertical Ridges Vertical ridges are common in the nails of older adults and are usually harmless. Dehydration, a zinc or vitamin A deficiency, and kidney or liver disease can also cause vertical ridges. If you have multiple vertical ridges or it appears suddenly along with other symptoms, you may need to follow up with your doctor for an assessment to avoid further health issues. Brittle and Dry Nails Brittle and dry nails can be caused by a few factors such as frequent exposure to water, using too many harsh chemicals, or not taking care of your hands properly. However, brittle and dry nails can also be a sign that you are lacking essential nutrients in your diet. Making dietary changes such as increasing your intake of foods rich in vitamins A, B and C like fresh vegetables, salmon, eggs and nuts may help improve the appearance of your nails. How to Maintain Nail Health To maintain healthy nails, it's important to follow good hygiene practices, eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of vitamins and minerals, avoid harmful habits such as biting your nails and regularly care for your nails with a good quality moisturizer and regular manicures. Conclusion Your nails are an important part of your body and can provide valuable information about your overall health. Changes in their appearance, texture, color, and strength can be an early warning sign of an underlying health issue. To maintain healthy nails, it's important to follow good hygiene practices, eat a healthy diet, and seek medical advice if you notice any changes in your nails that concern you.
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