Though our fingernails are all too often given a second thought, they actually possess the power to provide insight about our overall well-being. A mere glance can often reveal common nail problems that could be signaling potential health issues. The following covers some of the more common nail maladies and what they may say regarding one’s overall health:
Having fragile nails is an all too common occurrence, especially for women. Dryness of the nails, lack of key vitamins, and imbalances in the thyroid gland can cause this problem. It is essential to get a doctor to check for any health factors that may be contributing if your nails are weak.
split nails are a regular concern many people encounter. Much like brittle nails, the issue can be due to nutritional deficiencies, age, harsh chemicals in nail products, or illnesses. Furthermore, split nails can arise from trauma brought on by techniques such as nail-picking and improper usage as tools. It’s crucial to check in with a medical professional to make sure there aren’t any underlying health issues linked to the condition.
If you’ve noticed a yellowish tint to your nails, it could indicate the presence of an infection caused by a fungus. However, it is also possible that this could be an indication of liver problems or diabetes. Everyone with yellow nails should promptly seek medical advice in order to explore the reason behind the discoloration and ensure that no underlying medical condition exists.
In general, white spots on toenails or fingernails are not of significance. But in cases where the spots seem to linger or occur frequently, it may suggest a zinc deficiency. If you notice this kind of pattern, it would be shrewd to schedule an appointment with your physician and make sure everything is operating as it should be.
If you look down at your hands and notice ridges on your nails, it’s perfectly normal – many people experience them. However, it is always wise to book a check-up with your doctor in order to be sure these ridges aren’t being caused by any underlying health issues. Nutrition deficiencies, aging, and certain chemicals can all be the culprits for these prominent lines appearing on the nails.
Small indentations on the nails are a sign of pitting, a condition seen quite regularly. Psoriasis, eczema, and Reiter’s syndrome are among the numerous possible reasons for it. Visiting your doctor is an important step to take if you discover pitting on your nails, as this can help them diagnose any underlying health issues.
The tips of your fingers may look and feel a bit different if they have become clubbed – the nails curve around the tips and the fingers might appear a bit swollen. Though this symptom is often indicative of lung problems, one should not disregard its potential connection to heart disease, liver disease, or even HIV/AIDS for that matter. Thus, it is essential to see a doctor if clubbing is present to ensure there are not any more significant health problems going undetected.
Should you detect any oddities or peculiarities in the condition of your nails, it is prudent to consult with a medical professional immediately. Doing so will facilitate the diagnosis of any potentially underlying health issues. The following are a few popular forms of nail-related afflictions.