We often look at each other’s fingernails as a sign of style, seeing if they have that perfect nail polish and manicure. We might also check to see if someone bites their nails and wonder if they’re nervous or stressed. But did you also know that the state of your fingernails can indicate certain health problems?
Pale/faded Nails
While many elderly people have quite pale nails, this can also be a sign of anemia, congestive heart failure, diabetes, liver disease, and poor nutrition.
White Nails
If the body of the nail is white (not just the tips), this can be a sign of liver problems, including hepatitis.
Yellow Nails
When nails are yellow, this usually a sign of a fungal infection. In these cases the nails are often thickened and crumbly. Yellow nails are also a sign of severe thyroid disease or psoriasis.
Blue Nails
You will often see blue nails in people with pneumonia or other lung ailments in which the body is not getting enough oxygen.
Rippled/Pitted Nails
When nails have little tiny indents in them, it can be a sign of inflammatory arthritis or an early sign of psoriasis.
Cracked/Split/Flaking Nails
Nails that are flaking and cracked are a common sign of thyroid disease. If the nail is also yellow, this could be part of a fungal infection.
Inflamed Nail Skin
If the skin all around the nail is puffed up and slightly red, this is an inflammation of the nail fold and may be due to lupus or some other connective tissue disease.
Dark Lines/Spots Under the Nail
At any sign of darkness under the nail, you should see a doctor as soon as possible, as these marks are sometimes an indication of melanoma.
Spoon-shaped Nails
Your nails should be flat or rounded, but if your nail is caved in (i.e. spoonshaped) this could be a sign of iron deficiency or anemia.
White Spots on Nails
White spots are the result of the nail having been injured, such as catching your finger in a door or banging it. If the white spots appear without any injury having occurred, they may be an early indication of psoriasis or a zinc deficiency.
Chewed Nails
When someone has nails that are chewed and bitten, there could be numerous reasons such as anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Before you go to your next manicure, stop for a moment and take a good look at your hands. Your nails may be telling you something.
