Signs of Nails: An Indication of Underlying Health Issues

There are certain medical conditions that manifest outwardly and show in the nails. Let's take a look, shall we?

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Not all nail abnormalities are medical conditions, but you can use them as a reference to go to the doctor in time:

Fragile and brittle nails

Suddenly, the nails become rough, cracked, and easily broken, which is one of the problems that shows that they are wet and dry for a long time. This condition may indicate that your hands are not adequately protected, and you need to moisturize and wear gloves while working. This condition may also be a sign of hypothyroidism and iron deficiency in the body.

Weak and soft nails

This condition is manifested in thin nails that are easily broken or bent before breaking. This may be because you often work with wet hands, or it may be due to frequent exposure to detergents. This condition may also be due to a deficiency of vitamin B, calcium, iron, or fatty acids.

Appearance of horizontal and vertical lines on the nails

If you see ridges that look like small waves horizontally or vertically on your nails, it may be a sign of a more serious condition such as kidney or liver disease. If you suddenly have additional symptoms such as yellowing skin, yellowish urine, difficult urination, fatigue, swelling… then go see a doctor right away.

Indented nails

This type of nails is very easy to recognize, the nails will be thin, flat, and indented. This condition appears because your body is deficient in blood and iron. You should review your diet and supplement with iron-rich foods.

Yellowish nails

If the nails suddenly turn yellow, it may be due to an infection or a reaction from the products you are using, such as nail polish. But if the yellow color persists and appears for a long time, it may be a sign of a larger issue, and you should see a doctor because you may have hepatitis or a more serious condition related to the thyroid gland or something else.

Nails with black lines

This condition is also called splinter hemorrhages, black lines (which can appear brown or dark red) that look like splinters. If it is not caused by trauma, it may be a sign of a condition called subungual hematoma, and it will disappear over time as the nail grows.

White spots on nails

The white spots scattered on the nails are mostly due to zinc deficiency. Some other cases may be due to fungus and trauma. Therefore, you should review your diet and supplement with zinc. If you frequently have trouble sleeping, dry or falling hair, it may be due to zinc deficiency.

No half-moon or it changes to red

Everyone’s nails have a white half-moon-shaped region at the nail bed. But if suddenly this part shrinks or sinks into the skin, it may be a sign of some phenomena such as malnutrition, depression, anemia… If you have additional symptoms of stress, fatigue, blurred vision, weight gain… then you should see a doctor.

These symptoms may only serve as a reference, but they remind you to pay more attention to your health. If there are additional abnormal symptoms, it is best to see a doctor.

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Frequently asked questions

The signs on our nails can indicate underlying health issues. For example, white spots on the nails may indicate a zinc or calcium deficiency, while vertical ridges could be a sign of malnutrition or simply a natural part of aging. Yellow nails could be a sign of a fungal infection or a more serious issue like diabetes or lung disease.

Brittle nails that break or chip easily could indicate a thyroid problem, or a deficiency in vitamin A, B, or C. It could also be a result of frequent exposure to water or harsh chemicals.

Yes, the shape and texture of your nail beds can also provide clues about your health. For example, if your nails are curved downward, it could indicate a lung or respiratory issue. Additionally, if your nails are pitted or have a rough texture, it could be a sign of psoriasis or eczema.

Maintaining a healthy diet with sufficient vitamins and minerals is crucial for nail health. Additionally, wearing gloves when doing household chores can protect your nails from harsh chemicals and excessive water exposure. Avoiding biting your nails and using a gentle nail file can also help keep your nails strong and healthy.

If you notice any significant changes in your nails, such as persistent discoloration, thickening, pitting, or shape changes, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider. These changes could be indicators of underlying health conditions that require medical attention.