Our nails are more than just an aesthetic feature of our hands and feet. They can reveal valuable information about our overall health if we pay close attention to them.

Changes in nail color, shape, texture, and thickness can all be signs of underlying health issues. Here are some common nail conditions and what they could be telling you:.

1. Pale Nails

Pale nails can be a sign of anemia, which is a condition in which there are not enough red blood cells to transport oxygen to the body’s tissues.

Other things that can cause pale nails include malnutrition, liver disease, and congestive heart failure.

2. Yellow Nails

Yellow nails can be a sign of a fungal infection, especially if they are thick and crumbly. Other possible causes of yellow nails include smoking, poor nutrition, and chronic bronchitis.

3. Blue Nails

Blue nails can be a sign of low oxygen levels in the blood, which can be caused by lung or heart problems. If your nails are blue and you are experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, or dizziness, seek medical attention immediately.

4. Spoon-Shaped Nails

Spoon-shaped nails, which are concave with the edges raised, can be a sign of iron deficiency anemia. Other possible causes include hypothyroidism, liver disease, and Raynaud’s disease.

5. Beau’s Lines

Beau’s lines are horizontal depressions in the nail plate and can be a sign of a systemic illness. They can be caused by malnutrition, severe infection, diabetes, and chemotherapy.

6. White Spots

Contrary to popular belief, white spots on the nails are not usually a sign of a calcium deficiency. In most cases, they are caused by minor injury to the nail matrix.

However, if you notice lots of white spots on your nails, it could be a sign of a fungal infection.

7. Vertical Ridges

Vertical ridges on the nails are a common sign of aging and are usually nothing to worry about. However, if the ridges are deep or appear suddenly, they could be a sign of a nutrient deficiency, autoimmune disorder, or thyroid problem.

8. Horizontal Ridges

Horizontal ridges, also known as Beau’s lines, are caused by a disruption in nail growth and can be a sign of a serious illness, such as uncontrolled diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or kidney disease.

9. Brittle Nails

Brittle nails can be a sign of a nutrient deficiency, particularly biotin, which is important for nail health. They can also be a sign of hypothyroidism, psoriasis, and fungal infection.

10. Clubbing

Clubbing is a condition in which the tips of the fingers widen and the nails curve downward. It can be a sign of lung disease, heart disease, or inflammatory bowel disease.

By paying attention to changes in your nails, you can catch potential health problems early and seek treatment before they become more serious. Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider if you notice any changes in your nails that concern you.