6 underlying nail health problems that may mean something more

Understanding heath issues through nails  (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Vlad)
Understanding heath issues through nails (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Vlad)

Your nails might not be your first stop when you look for health indicators, but they can actually reveal a lot.

Your entire health, energy level, and even attractiveness are all affected by the quality of your nutrition. Anything from the condition of your hair to the condition of your skin to even your nail health is impacted by what you consume.

Have you ever wondered why a broken or black-lined nail appears that way? As it turns out, nail health is intimately related to how effectively your body functions in other areas.


5 nail health symptoms to be on the lookout for

Nails can provide a crucial insight into your general well-being. Having healthy, strong nails isn't just beneficial for a visit to the nail salon. Unpleasant nail symptoms can also be an indication of larger health issues.

Importance of understanding nail health symptoms (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Anete)
Importance of understanding nail health symptoms (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Anete)

1) Nail pitting

Nail pitting is the formation of little circular depressions, or notches, in the nails. It's frequent in people with skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Alopecia areata, an autoimmune illness that causes hair loss, may also be linked to nail pitting.

Benefits of understanding root causes of bad nail health (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Energepic)
Benefits of understanding root causes of bad nail health (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Energepic)

2) Dark streak

If you notice an unfamiliar or changing dark stripe on a fingernail or toe, it's time to contact the doctor for a skin tumor screening. That dark streak might be melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Not every black stripe is a melanoma, but it's always a good idea to get one examined by a dermatologist. Early detection and treatment may be all that is required.

Understanding nail health (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Adrienne)
Understanding nail health (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Adrienne)

3) Brittle nails

Nails that appear dry, broken, or brittle are a common problem and there are several possible causes. Dryness on the plate of the nail can cause soft, brittle nails.

This can be caused by swimming, the abuse of nail paint remover, regular dishwashing with no gloves, or just living in an area with a low-humidity climate.

However, if brittle nails persist, consult a doctor. Hypothyroidism (a condition in which the thyroid functions too slowly) can also cause this adverse effect.

Nail health issues (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Lisa)
Nail health issues (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Lisa)

4) Terry nails

The majority of the fingernail appears white in Terry's nails, except for a tiny pink or red band at the top.

Terry's nails occasionally develop as a result of ageing. In certain situations, however, it may be an indication of a more severe medical condition, including liver disease, congestive heart failure, or diabetes.

Nail health issues to avoid (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by bermix)
Nail health issues to avoid (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by bermix)

5) Horizontal lines on the nails

Age-related ridges in the nails are possible. Straight ridges, also known as Beau's lines, appearing across the nail suggest that your nail growth has slowed or ceased, which could be due to a medical ailment.

High temperatures, vitamin insufficiency, injury, diabetes, and peripheral arterial disease are all common reasons. These lines can also be caused by chemotherapy.

Health issues known by the looks of your nail health (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by polina)
Health issues known by the looks of your nail health (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by polina)

6) Coloured nails

While some nail colours may propose a minor deficit, others may signal a more serious problem. Have you recently noticed some red nails? Red nails could indicate heart illness or kidney issues. Red nails have also been linked to psoriasis and lupus.

Blue nails indicate poor oxygen flow or heart or lung issues. The most severe of them is a straight black stripe extending from the cuticle up to the tip. This colour change has been observed in people with subungal melanoma, a severe skin malignancy. If you see a strange colour, consult a dermatologist or specialist.

Significance of understanding nail issues(image sourced via Pexels / Photo by John)
Significance of understanding nail issues(image sourced via Pexels / Photo by John)

If your fingernails are acting up without any other symptoms, it's generally not a cause for concern. However, if you detect any other inexplicable symptoms in conjuction with irregularities in your nails, consult a healthcare expert about possible explanations. Once diagnosed, most root causes of nail issues are simple to treat.

Edited by S Chowdhury
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