Fingernails Can Reveal Potential Health Problems

A Fingernail's Appearance Can Be Related to Bad Health

Today fingernails cost lots of money. Or rather, the care and upkeep of fingernails. There are French manicures, acrylic nails, nail charms, and the list goes on. But maybe you should take a break between manicures and check out your nails in their virgin state. Closely inspect the appearance of your nails with no polish or buffing. Your fingernails can actually reveal potential health problems, according to dermatologists.

Healthy fingernails have crescents at the bases. Healthy fingernails have pink nail beds. Fingernails should contain no lines or marks. Fingernails should not be brittle or abnormally thin. Be aware of any sudden or unusual changes in your fingernails. This includes changes in the color, shape, or thickness.

Squared fingernails are often accompanied by hormonal disorders. Flat, thin fingernails can be a symptom of a vitamin B-12 deficiency. Flat fingernails may reveal a lack of iron or protein. Spoon shaped fingernails can indicate a thyroid disorder.

Frequent hangnails can be an indication of more vitamin C needed in the diet. A vitamin C deficiency can also cause reddish spots on fingernails.

Fingernails with vertical ridges can be caused by poor diet, lack of iron, or a kidney disorder. Vertical ridges may also indicate susceptibility to arthritis. Horizontal ridges on fingernails is sometimes an indication of severe stress or a heart attack.

If fingernails have a bluish tint, it could be caused by low oxygen. This could be a symptom of pneumonia or another respiratory problem, such as emphysema or asthma. Heart trouble can also cause fingernails to have a bluish color.

Discolored fingernails can be caused by stress or diabetes. Diabetes can also cause yellowish fingernails. Yellowing fingernails may be also be caused by liver dysfunction or respiratory diseases. Brownish fingernails may signal kidney trouble.

White streaks across the fingernails may mean potential liver, heart, or kidney disease. This is highly unlikely, however. White streaks on fingernails can also be caused by a diet lacking in iron or zinc.