The shape, color, and texture of our nails reveal a lot of things about the health. These signs are indicators of a serious health problem, disease, and even cancer.
On the basis of the findings of the American Academy of Dermatology, our nails show the state of our health. This means that certain nail changes, such as discoloration and thickening, reveal particular health issues, like diabetes, kidney or liver diseases, or heart and lung problems.
The nails grow from 3 to 3.5 mm on a monthly basis. But, their growth might be impaired by certain external and internal factors, including trauma, medications, age, nutritional status, and etc.
So, in case you notice certain changes in the nails, discoloration, swellings, or thickening, please visit a dermatologist since it can be symbol of a serious health issue.
Therefore, be aware of and pay special attention to these 10 nail symptoms:
Brittle, Cracked, or Dry Nails – The cracking of nails is a result of chemicals exposure, the frequent use of nail polish remover, having your hands in water often, and living in a low humidity area. Other potential causes are fungal infections, vitamin C and A deficiency, thyroid disease, or biotin deficiency.
White Spots – White spots occur as a result of trauma and stress, and in some cases, they indicate fungal infection.
White Nails with a Pink Strip – In case your nails become white and have pink strips, then you might suffer from a heart failure, liver disease, kidney failure, or diabetes.
Yellow Nails – Smoking, aging, and nail polish make your nails yellowish. But, in case they are crumbly and thick, you may be suffering from a fungal infection. Other reasons might be respiratory diseases, diabetes, psoriasis, and thyroid diseases.
Pitting – The multiple nail pits indicate psoriasis. According to experts, pitting develops in people dealing with psoriasis or people having psoriatic arthritis.
Clubbing – It is manifested through enlarged fingertips and nails that grow downwards, as a result of low oxygen supply in the lungs and in the blood. So, this condition is a sign of heart diseases, kidney issues, AIDS, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Vertical Ridges – A common sing in the elderly population, which is caused by the natural aging process. In some cases, it might be a sign of vitamin B12 or magnesium deficiency.
Horizontal Ridges – According to John Anthony, a dermatologist at the Ohio Cleveland Clinic, this condition occurs as a result of chronic stress. However, sometimes horizontal ridges might appear due to certain more serious illnesses. So, your body is trying to send you a message, meaning that you have a better thing to do rather than making your nails more beautiful.
Also known as Beau’s lines, horizontal ridges usually occur as a result of a zinc deficiency, circulatory disease, diabetes, or psoriasis.
Spoon Nails – In case your nails are curving upwards on the edge, this means you are iron deficient or you suffer from a hypothyroidism or heart disease.
Dark Discolorations – Visit your doctor immediately and check whether the dark streaks on your nails indicate melanoma.
Useful tips for nail care:
-Have a nutrient-rich and balanced diets
-Avoid artificial nails and nail polish
-Protect the nails from extreme water and chemical exposure
-Keep your nails trimmed and short
-Rub some coconut oil on your nails in order to supply them with the necessary nutrients in order to keep them strong and hydrated