What Your Nails Say About Your Health

Nails do more than protect your fingertips. They can signal important information about your health. Changes in their colour, shape, or texture often reflect internal conditions. Many people ignore these signs, dismissing them as cosmetic. But nails may point to infections, nutritional deficiencies, or even chronic illnesses.

This blog will explain how to recognize common nail abnormalities, what causes them, and how to maintain healthy nails.

Signs of Healthy Nails

Healthy nails have a smooth surface and steady growth. They usually appear pinkish and show no visible damage. Look for these signs:

• Smooth surface – No pits or deep ridges. Light vertical ridges may appear with age.
• Even colour – A pink base with no white, black, or yellow streaks.
• Firm and flexible – Nails should not peel or break easily.
• Clean, attached cuticles – These protect the area around the nail from infection.
• Steady growth – A regular growth pattern with no major changes in thickness or shape.

A shift in any of these features could suggest an underlying condition.

Common Nail Changes and What They Mean

Discolouration

A healthy nail is pink with a white tip. Any change in colour could signal a deeper issue.

• Yellow nails – May result from fungal infections, excessive polish, or smoking. In some cases, they link to diabetes or thyroid disorders.
• Blue or purple nails – Can indicate low oxygen levels due to heart or lung problems.
• White spots – Often caused by injury, but sometimes linked to low zinc or calcium levels.
• Dark streaks – A black or brown line that doesn’t go away could signal melanoma and needs medical attention.

Brittle or Splitting Nails

Nails that crack, split, or peel easily often suffer from frequent exposure to water or chemicals. Repeated handwashing and cleaning without gloves can cause damage. Poor diet, especially one low in iron or biotin, also weakens nails. Thyroid disorders may also lead to soft or dry nails. Sometimes, fungal infections are to blame.

Ridges and Grooves

• Vertical ridges – Common with age and generally harmless.
• Horizontal ridges – Also known as Beau’s lines, these suggest a pause in nail growth. Causes include serious illness, high fever, or poor nutrition.

Pitting

Tiny dents in the nail surface may signal autoimmune conditions. Psoriasis often causes pitting, along with thick, discoloured nails. Eczema and alopecia areata can cause similar effects.

Clubbing

Nails that curve downward with swollen fingertips may reflect chronic lung or heart disease. Clubbing can also appear in digestive or liver disorders.

Spoon-shaped Nails (Koilonychia)

Thin nails that dip inward like a spoon can suggest iron deficiency anaemia. Liver conditions that affect iron absorption may also lead to spoon-shaped nails.

Thick or Deformed Nails

Thickened nails often point to fungal infections. These nails may also be discoloured or crumble. Psoriasis can also cause nail thickening or lifting. Circulatory problems can change nail shape and thickness due to poor blood flow.

Common Nail Infections

Fungal Infections (Onychomycosis)

These affect toenails more than fingernails. They usually start with yellowing and thickening. If untreated, the nail can become misshapen or break down. People who wear tight shoes or have sweaty feet are more at risk. Those with diabetes or poor circulation are also more vulnerable.

Bacterial Infections (Paronychia)

These affect the skin around the nail. They cause redness, swelling, and pus. Nail biting or aggressive manicures can increase the risk. Chronic exposure to water also raises infection risk.

Viral Infections

Viruses like HPV can cause warts near or under the nail. These growths may hurt or interfere with nail trimming. Treatment may involve freezing, topical creams, or lasers.

Yeast Infections

Candida can infect both the nail and the surrounding skin. This leads to discolouration, thickening, and pain. People who handle water often or have weak immune systems are more likely to develop yeast infections.

How to Care for Your Nails

Follow these tips to prevent nail problems and support nail health:

• Keep nails dry and clean – Moisture can trap bacteria or fungi.
• Trim nails properly – Cut straight across with a slight curve at the edges.
• Moisturise regularly – Use hand cream or cuticle oil after washing.
• Eat a balanced diet – Include biotin, iron, zinc, and protein.
• Avoid biting nails – This can lead to breaks and infections.
• Protect hands from chemicals – Wear gloves when cleaning.
• Watch for changes – Discolouration, shape changes, or persistent brittleness should prompt a medical check-up.

When to Seek Help

Some nail changes are harmless. Others may signal serious conditions. If you notice ongoing discolouration, thickening, pain, or growth abnormalities, seek medical advice. Identifying the cause early can prevent complications and lead to better treatment.

Final Thoughts

Your nails can reveal much about your health. Regular nail care and observation can help detect issues early. If you notice changes that don’t go away, consult a healthcare provider for a closer look. At Prakash Hospital, our team is here to help you understand what your nails might be telling you and guide you toward the right care.