Your nails may seem like a minor part of your body, but they can actually reveal a lot about your overall health. Changes in your nails, such as discoloration, ridges, or thickening, can indicate underlying health problems.

In this article, we’ll explore what your nail health can reveal about your overall wellness.

1. Pale or White Nails

If your nails are unusually pale or white, it could be a sign of anemia or liver disease. Anemia is a condition where the body doesn’t have enough red blood cells, which can cause pale nails.

Liver disease can cause changes in nail color, as well as other symptoms such as jaundice and abdominal pain.

2. Yellow Nails

Yellow nails may be a sign of a fungal infection or a respiratory condition such as bronchitis. Smoking can also cause nails to yellow, as can wearing nail polish for long periods of time without giving your nails a break.

3. Blue Nails

If your nails are turning blue, it may be a sign of a lack of oxygen in your blood. This can be caused by lung or heart problems, such as COPD or congestive heart failure. If you notice blue nails, it’s important to see a doctor right away.

4. Dark Lines Beneath the Nail

Dark lines or spots beneath the nail can be a sign of melanoma, a type of skin cancer.

If you notice any changes in your nails that are unusual, including dark lines or spots, it’s important to see a dermatologist right away to rule out skin cancer.

5. Ridges on Nails

Ridges on your nails can indicate a variety of health problems, including iron deficiency anemia, psoriasis, and thyroid problems.

If you notice ridges on your nails, especially if they are deep or painful, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out underlying health issues.

6. Soft or Brittle Nails

If your nails are soft or brittle, it may be a sign of a vitamin deficiency, such as biotin or vitamin B12. It could also be a sign of thyroid problems or iron deficiency anemia.

Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of vitamins and minerals can help improve nail health.

7. Clubbing

Clubbing is a condition where the fingertips become bulbous and the nails become curved and rounded. This can be a sign of lung or heart problems, such as lung cancer or heart disease.

If you notice clubbing, it’s important to see a doctor right away.

8. Spoon Nails

Spoon nails are nails that are concave, or curve inward. This can be a sign of iron deficiency anemia or liver disease. It can also be a sign of hypothyroidism.

If you notice spoon nails, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out underlying health issues.

9. White Spots on Nails

White spots on nails are a common occurrence and usually nothing to worry about. They are usually caused by minor injuries to the nail bed, such as banging your hand or dropping something on your nail.

However, in rare cases, white spots can be a sign of a fungal infection.

10. Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the skin surrounding the nail. This can cause pain, swelling, and infection. Ingrown toenails can be caused by wearing tight shoes, cutting the nails too short, or injuring the toe.

If you have an ingrown toenail, it’s important to see a podiatrist to get it treated.