What Your Nails Say About Your Health

The human body is an amazing and dynamic system. Every element tells its own unique tale, and the humble nails on your toes and fingers are one of the best storytellers.

Nail health signs are one of the first things any medical professional will glance at when you visit. That’s right, we’re getting information from you before you even begin to speak… And those nails are chatty little devils (if you know what you’re looking for).

Nails: The Inbuilt Snitch on Your Overall Health

Nails have two ways that they “talk” to us.

The first is through a direct issue with the nail in isolation, meaning that the problem lies here, rather than being caused by anything going on elsewhere in the body . One of the most common dermatologist nail issues seen is a fungal nail infection. This shows with symptoms, such as:

• Yellowing and crumbling nails.
• The nail becomes thicker.
• It separates from the nail bed.

Other regularly seen problems include:

• Pitting.
• Ridges and grooves.
• Redness and swelling around and/or under the nail.
• Abnormal nail growth, often caused by cysts or warts.

The key to the treatment of all the above is early intervention. The quicker you seek help, then the faster the road back to beautiful nails. Remember, nails are an extension of the skin (as is the hair), so a dermatologist is the best medical professional to see.

The second link between nails and health includes additional—and often very subtle—signs that can be indicative of more serious medical issues. Some examples include:

• Clubbing: This is a somewhat confusing term, but it means that the nails change shape. This is caused by softening of the nail bed, which allows it to lift and appear to almost float above the skin beneath. This occurs when blood oxygen levels become abnormally low. It’s potentially a symptom of many things, including celiac disease, heart problems, lung issues, and liver cirrhosis.
• White flecks on the nail: The jury is out on some of the reasons behind this, with certain studies suggesting it can be a sign of mineral or vitamin deficiency. But it can also be an indication of heavy metal poisoning (rare). However, the most common reasons behind them are some kind of nail trauma, like stubbing your toe, or even the result of too many manicures.
• Blue nails: This is also a sign of low blood oxygen, which has many causes. If you notice that yours have taken on a blueish tinge, then make an appointment to see a medical professional ASAP. As with all illness and disease, prompt diagnosis and treatment are key to improve the prognosis.
• A dark ridge or mark under the nail: While this can be the result of nail trauma (you’ve hit yourself with a hammer or dropped something on your toe), a dark mark that doesn’t go away should be checked out. It can be a symptom of a rare type of skin cancer, known as a subungual melanoma.
• Thin and brittle nails: While this can easily be down to a poor diet, if they also curve slightly inwards (like a spoon) then it could be suggestive of other health conditions, including anemia or celiac disease.
• Horizontal ridges: This can have many causes, from protein deficiency to more serious problems, like high cholesterol, diabetes, or vascular disease.

Understanding nail symptoms of illness doesn’t mean you need to have a medical degree. All you need to know is that if you notice an ongoing change in your nails, such as color, shape, or texture, then you should bring it to the attention of a suitably qualified doctor. Most nail issues are transient and are easily fixed. But if there is an underlying issue, then the sooner your physician puts a treatment plan into place, the better.

And, guys and girls, this is one vital reason why you should give your finger and toenails regular breaks from nail polish. That shade may look beautiful, but it can also hide all manner of issues. A minimal, nude-nail vibe every once in a while not only looks great, but gives you the chance to see the health of your nails in all their naked glory (and seek help, should you notice an issue).

Worried about nail health signs? We can help. Visit Services | Bayou City Dermatology for more information and call today to book an appointment.