Take a moment to examine your fingernails. If they aren’t adorned with nail polish (and let’s face it, during the pandemic they likely aren’t), you might notice various features. Are they long, robust, and sturdy? Or are they thin and pliable? Do they tend to peel easily? Some individuals have ridges either running vertically or horizontally on their nails, while others may notice small white spots. Discoloration, puffiness, variations in thickness, and separation from the nail bed can all provide insight into your overall health.
This makes sense, as your nails are composed of keratin, the same protein that forms your hair and the upper layer of your skin. The visible part of your nail is essentially dead, so trimming them is harmless (a tip you can share with your child!). Nails grow from the cuticle and typically extend about 3.5 millimeters each month, which translates to roughly a tenth of a millimeter per day. If you lose a nail, expect it to take up to six months to fully regrow, longer if it’s a thumb. Research indicates that nails grow faster on your dominant hand, during the summer, and throughout the day, as well as during pregnancy, while growth may slow down during nursing.
Given that nails grow quickly and renew visibly, they can reveal a lot about your health status. Do you have a thyroid condition or nutritional deficiencies? Your nails might be signaling these issues. Here are some common nail conditions and how to interpret them.
Vertical Lines on Fingernails
One of the most prevalent nail issues is the appearance of uniform lines. According to the Health Clinic, similar to hair loss during stress, you may notice lines forming on your nails, especially during stressful times.
Brittle or Cracking Nails
Nails that easily crack or split can indicate various issues, including malnutrition, aging, and lifestyle factors. Thyroid disease and anemia can also play a role. Low thyroid function means your gland isn’t producing sufficient hormones, which can be diagnosed with a blood test. Anemia occurs when your red blood cells lack enough hemoglobin, which is vital for oxygen transport.
Spots on Nails
You might encounter different types of spots on your fingernails; some are benign, while others could require medical attention. Random white spots, known as leukonychia, are typically harmless but may hint at nutritional deficiencies or infections during the nail’s growth phase. Changes in nail color are common complaints among dermatologists, with discoloration sometimes signaling benign moles or even melanoma. If you notice unusual discoloration, consult a healthcare professional.
Nail Color Changes
Pale nails could be a sign of malnutrition, anemia, congestive heart failure, or liver disease. Yellow nails, unless caused by nail polish or smoking, may indicate a fungal infection, chronic bronchitis, or other serious conditions. Blue nails suggest inadequate oxygen supply, often linked to heart or lung issues.
Ridges on Nails
Beau’s lines, which are horizontal ridges, may reflect malnutrition or vitamin deficiencies, particularly zinc deficiency. They are also associated with diabetes and past illnesses like pneumonia.
Nail Lifting
Nails that start lifting from the nail bed can be concerning. This condition could result from medication side effects, thyroid disease, pregnancy, fungal infections, or nail trauma.
Fungal Infections
While more common in toenails, fungal infections can affect fingernails too. Signs include yellowing, brittleness, and distortion in shape.
So, take a moment to inspect your nails. They can provide valuable health insights. If you notice any concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor for reassurance and guidance. After all, it’s always wise to be proactive about your health.
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Summary
Fingernails can reflect various health conditions, from nutritional deficiencies to thyroid issues. Observing their appearance can provide insights into your overall health. If you notice any significant changes, consult a medical professional for further evaluation.
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