Nails are often thought of as just a cosmetic accessory, but they could be telling you something important about your health. Changes in nail appearance, texture and shape could be indicative of a variety of medical conditions.

While changes in nail health are not always a sign of something serious, it is important to pay attention to your nails and seek professional medical attention if necessary.

What should you look for?

Changes in the color, texture, and thickness of your nails can be indicative of a number of health conditions. Here are some common changes you should watch out for:.

Brittle nails

If your nails are brittle, dry and break easily, it could be a sign of a dietary deficiency. Iron, vitamin B, and calcium are all important minerals that contribute to nail health.

Brittle nails could also be a sign of thyroid disorders, kidney disease, or poor circulation.

Yellow nails

Yellow nails are often associated with nail fungus, which is a common infection that can affect both toenails and fingernails. Smoking can also cause yellow nails.

However, if you see a heavy yellow tint to your nails, it could be a sign of a more serious health condition like psoriasis, liver disease, or diabetes.

White spots

Contrary to popular belief, white spots on your nails are not always a sign of calcium deficiency. While sometimes they are just a result of trauma to the nail, they could also indicate a fungal infection or zinc deficiency.

White spots can also be a sign of anemia or kidney disease.

Vertical ridges

If you have long vertical ridges on your nails, it could be a sign of certain deficiencies within your body like vitamin B or iron. It could also be a sign that you are aging.

However, if you have short, horizontal ridges along the nails, it could indicate a more serious medical condition such as liver disease or diabetes.

Pale nails

Your nails should generally be pink in color, indicating good blood flow throughout your body. If your nails are pale in color, it could be a sign of anemia, malnutrition or liver disease.

Dark nails

If your nails appear to be darker than usual, it could be a sign of a serious medical condition like melanoma. Dark lines beneath the nail can also indicate melanoma or other types of skin cancer.

Nail separation

If your nail appears to be pulling away from the nailbed, it could indicate psoriasis or a fungal infection. Additionally, it could be a sign of anemia, hyperthyroidism or connective tissue disease.

Conclusion

Your nails are more complex than you may have initially thought. They can give us insights into our body’s overall health.

While occasionally changes in nail health do not indicate anything serious, it is always worth bringing them to the notice of our healthcare provider when we observe any color or texture changes in our nails. Paying attention to our nails along with eating a well-balanced diet together with exercise and good skin care practice are some of the best ways we can ensure overall health.