How often do you look at your nails? If not regularly, then here are 10 signs that may indicate your nails need attention or assistance.
Brittle Nails: If your nails are constantly brittle and prone to breaking or splitting easily, it could be a sign of a nutritional deficiency or an underlying health issue.
Yellowing or Discoloration: Yellow, brown, or greenish discoloration of the nails may indicate a fungal infection, psoriasis, or a thyroid problem. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Peeling or Splitting: If your nails peel or split in layers, it could be due to excessive exposure to water or chemicals, or it may indicate a deficiency in vitamins or minerals.
Ridged Nails: Vertical ridges or grooves running along the length of the nail can be a sign of aging or nutritional deficiencies. Horizontal ridges, known as Beau’s lines, may indicate more serious conditions like a systemic illness, injury, or malnutrition.
Slow Growth: If your nails are growing slowly or appear to have stopped growing altogether, it could indicate poor circulation, nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or other underlying health conditions.
White Spots or Lines: Small white spots or lines on your nails are generally harmless and often caused by minor injuries or trauma to the nail bed. However, they can also be a sign of a fungal infection or a zinc deficiency.
Clubbing: Clubbing refers to the enlargement of the fingertips and a change in the angle between the nail and the finger. It can be a sign of low oxygen levels in the blood, lung disease, or certain heart conditions.
Pitting: Small depressions or pitting on the surface of the nails can be a symptom of psoriasis or other skin disorders.
Nail Infections: Redness, swelling, pain, or pus around the nail bed can indicate a bacterial or fungal infection. Prompt medical attention is necessary to prevent further complications.
Spooning: If your nails appear concave or spoon-shaped, curving upwards at the edges, it may be a sign of iron deficiency anemia, heart disease, or hypothyroidism.