Nails are more than just a beauty feature; they reflect the overall health of an individual. Changes in the color, shape, or texture of nails can indicate health problems or nutrient deficiencies.
According to Times of India, here are 7 nail changes to watch out for:
1. Pale or White Nails
If the nails appear pale or completely white, it could be a sign of anemia, caused by a low red blood cell count. This is often due to a deficiency in iron or vitamin B12, which may lead to fatigue and dizziness. If pale nails are accompanied by tiredness or shortness of breath, it's essential to consult a doctor.
2. Yellow Nails
Yellowing of the nails can be caused by fungal infections, but it may also be associated with lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis, diabetes, or thyroid disorders. If the nails become thick or brittle with a color change, it's best to seek medical advice.
3. Brittle and Cracked Nails
Easily breakable nails may be due to a lack of moisture, but if the problem persists, it could indicate thyroid problems or a deficiency in biotin (vitamin B7) or iron. A balanced diet can help strengthen the nails.
4. Concave Nails ("Koilonychia")
Nails that appear concave (curved inward) may be a sign of iron-deficiency anemia. It's recommended to check iron levels if the nails adopt this shape, as it could indicate poor circulation of oxygen in the body.
5. Dark Lines Under the Nails
Do not ignore black or dark brown lines under the nails, as they may be a sign of melanoma (skin cancer). While some harmless conditions can cause this change, persistent dark lines should be checked to avoid potential health risks.
6. Clubbing Nails
Clubbed nails are characterized by swollen fingertips and nails that curve downward. This condition is often linked to lung, heart, or liver disorders and is a result of low oxygen levels in the blood. Early detection of the underlying cause helps with immediate treatment.
7. White Spots on Nails
Small white spots on nails are usually harmless, but if they persist, they could indicate a deficiency in zinc, calcium, or protein. A balanced diet is crucial to maintaining healthy nails.
By paying attention to these changes, one can potentially detect underlying health issues and take appropriate actions with the help of a healthcare professional.
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Nails are more than just a beauty feature; they reflect the overall health of an individual. Changes in the color, shape, or texture of nails can indicate health problems or nutrient deficiencies.
According to Times of India, here are 7 nail changes to watch out for:
1. Pale or White Nails
If the nails appear pale or completely white, it could be a sign of anemia, caused by a low red blood cell count. This is often due to a deficiency in iron or vitamin B12, which may lead to fatigue and dizziness. If pale nails are accompanied by tiredness or shortness of breath, it's essential to consult a doctor.
2. Yellow Nails
Yellowing of the nails can be caused by fungal infections, but it may also be associated with lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis, diabetes, or thyroid disorders. If the nails become thick or brittle with a color change, it's best to seek medical advice.
3. Brittle and Cracked Nails
Easily breakable nails may be due to a lack of moisture, but if the problem persists, it could indicate thyroid problems or a deficiency in biotin (vitamin B7) or iron. A balanced diet can help strengthen the nails.
4. Concave Nails ("Koilonychia")
Nails that appear concave (curved inward) may be a sign of iron-deficiency anemia. It's recommended to check iron levels if the nails adopt this shape, as it could indicate poor circulation of oxygen in the body.
5. Dark Lines Under the Nails
Do not ignore black or dark brown lines under the nails, as they may be a sign of melanoma (skin cancer). While some harmless conditions can cause this change, persistent dark lines should be checked to avoid potential health risks.
6. Clubbing Nails
Clubbed nails are characterized by swollen fingertips and nails that curve downward. This condition is often linked to lung, heart, or liver disorders and is a result of low oxygen levels in the blood. Early detection of the underlying cause helps with immediate treatment.
7. White Spots on Nails
Small white spots on nails are usually harmless, but if they persist, they could indicate a deficiency in zinc, calcium, or protein. A balanced diet is crucial to maintaining healthy nails.
By paying attention to these changes, one can potentially detect underlying health issues and take appropriate actions with the help of a healthcare professional.
