What do fingernails say about your health

Splitting and cracking can also indicate hypothyroidism or fungal infection. On the other hand, brittle nails can be caused by lack of vitamin A, vitamin B biotin, or vitamin C.

This nail condition is characterized with enlarged nails curved downward. This nail symptom can indicate oxygen deficiency in the blood and lung disease. Usually, white spots on the nails are caused by nail trauma. They are not dangerous and will disappear on their own. However, in some cases, it might indicate a fungal infection. This nail symptom usually appears in more than one nail.

This nail condition is typical for older people and is not dangerous. The vertical ridges might become more prominent with ages. Sometimes they can occur as a result of magnesium deficiency , lack of vitamin B12 , or other nutrient deficiency. If your nails curve upward you might have hemochromatosis excess absorption of iron , iron-deficiency anemia, hypothyroidism, or heart disease.

Multiple pits or dents on the nails can indicate healthline. This is because in some cases dark discoloration on nails can be a symptom of melanoma. They can be a signal of congestive heart failure, liver disease , or diabetes.

Also, they can appear with aging. In most cases, nail symptoms occur as a result of trauma, systemic problems, or lifestyle factor, including the habit of nail biting. These people are susceptible to a skin infection that appears around the nails known as paronychia. So, when a person chews their nails, yeast, bacteria, and other microorganisms can enter through abrasions, causing redness, swelling, and pus around the nails. Biting your nails can cause bacterial infection which as the American Academy of Dermatology explains, it is one of the most common nail problems.

Usually, people start this unhealthy habit in their childhood and quit it gradually or abruptly with aging. By Kathleen Felton Updated September 10, Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission. Save Pin FB More. Credit: Getty Images. Close Sign in. Small cysts that grow near or on the cuticles may arise with arthritis. These are benign not cancerous and best addressed by a hand surgeon.

This common skin condition is usually characterized by scaly, red patches, but it can also impact fingernails and toenails, Dr. Here are other symptoms that can also indicate psoriasis :. Indentations : Nicks or pits on the nail plate, which is the hard part of the nail that covers the fingertips. This generally starts at the tip and works their way toward the cuticle. White areas : Distinct white spots on the nails, also called leukonychia.

Black lines : Black lines running from tip to cuticle could be tiny clots called splinter hemorrhages or dilated and burst capillaries — potential symptoms of psoriasis. Redness : The usually pale areas near the cuticle turn red, which could be caused by congested capillaries, another possible sign of psoriasis. Several nail changes can indicate the presence of acute or chronic kidney disease , Dr. The new etiquette rules for winter: William Hanson tells Lorraine viewers 'not to enter a friend's intimate Taking it on tour!

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