Nail health is often a precise reflection of your body’s overall condition. Changes in nail color or texture can signal vitamin deficiencies, chronic disorders, or even daily habits that negatively affect skin health.
اضافة اعلان
1. Brittle Nails
Brittle or split nails are among the most common issues, medically known as onychoschizia. They often result from frequent exposure to water and drying, but may also indicate hypothyroidism or iron deficiency.
Tip: Use creams containing alpha hydroxy acids or lanolin, and wear gloves when doing household chores involving water.
2. Weak or Soft Nails
If your nails break or bend easily, it could be due to excessive moisture or exposure to chemicals like cleaning agents or nail polish removers.
It may also point to a deficiency in B vitamins, calcium, iron, or essential fatty acids.
Tip: Avoid harsh products and consider a multivitamin supplement with key nail-strengthening nutrients.
3. Peeling Nails
Peeling is often caused by external trauma like using nails as tools or harsh nail polish removal. If toenails are also affected, it could indicate an internal issue such as iron deficiency.
Tip: Moisturize nails after any drying activity and include iron-rich foods in your diet. See a doctor if it persists.
4. Ridges or Waves
Vertical ridges often appear with aging and are not usually a cause for concern. However, horizontal lines (known as Beau’s lines) can signal underlying issues like kidney disease or systemic problems.
Tip: Light buffing can smooth vertical ridges. Horizontal ones should be evaluated by a physician.
5. Yellow Nails
Yellow discoloration is commonly caused by fungal infections or reactions to nail polish. Rarely, it may signal thyroid problems, psoriasis, or diabetes.
Tip: Allow nails to grow naturally, use tea tree oil or vitamin E for treatment, and consult a doctor if the issue persists beyond a few weeks.
6. Black or Brown Lines
Dark lines under the nail may result from direct injury (like slamming a door on a finger), but can also be signs of serious conditions like psoriasis, endocarditis, or even subungual melanoma.
Tip: If the lines don’t grow out with the nail or are accompanied by symptoms like night sweats or bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.
7. White Spots
These often appear during adolescence and may signal a zinc deficiency, allergic reaction, fungal infection, or mild injury.
Tip: Avoid nail polish and let the nail grow out. Persistent or recurring spots should be checked by a healthcare provider.
8. Missing Lunula (White Crescent)
The absence of the white crescent at the nail base is usually harmless. However, if previously present and then vanished, it could indicate malnutrition, depression, or anemia.
Tip: If you notice such a change or a shift in color (to red), consult a doctor.
When to See a Doctor
Most nail issues can be treated at home or resolve on their own. But if accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, excessive thirst, or skin infections, they may point to a more serious health condition. A professional evaluation is advised.
Tips for Healthy Nails
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides the essential vitamins and minerals for healthy nails. Soft-gel supplements are easier to absorb, and biotin or horsetail supplements may help—but stop them two weeks before lab tests as they can affect results.
If you notice changes in your nails without other symptoms, there’s usually no cause for concern. But if symptoms persist or worsen, don't hesitate to consult a medical specialist. Most nail abnormalities are easily treated once properly diagnosed.
