Beyond their aesthetic appeal, nails can serve as indicators of underlying health issues. Changes in nail colour, texture, and shape may signal various deficiencies, infections, or systemic diseases (conditions that affect the entire body, rather than a specific organ or system). Understanding these signs can help in early intervention and prevent more significant health concerns. Here, we explore some common signs of unhealthy nails and what they might reveal about your well-being.
Discolouration
One of the most noticeable signs of unhealthy nails is discolouration. While nails naturally vary in colour, drastic changes can be concerning. According to Dr Shobha Sudeep, a dermatologist, and cosmetologist based in Bengaluru, yellow nails may indicate fungal infections or the presence of respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis. Bluish nails might suggest poor circulation or oxygen deprivation. Meanwhile, white spots could signal a deficiency in minerals like zinc or calcium.
Changes in texture
Healthy nails are typically smooth and evenly textured. However, rough or brittle nails may indicate underlying issues. Dr Jude Dileep, a consultant dermatologist at Dr Jude’s Hair Transplant and Skin Clinic in Pondicherry says that brittle nails, prone to splitting or peeling, can result from dehydration, nutritional deficiencies, or frequent exposure to harsh chemicals. Conversely, excessively thickened nails might be a sign of fungal infection or psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition affecting the skin and nails.
Nail pitting
Pitting refers to the presence of small dents or craters on the nail surface. Dr Dileep says that while mild pitting may be benign, more pronounced pitting could indicate psoriasis or other inflammatory skin conditions. Psoriatic nail changes often accompany skin psoriasis and may require medical management to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
Clubbing
Nail clubbing is characterised by the abnormal enlargement of fingertips and nails, resulting in a bulbous appearance, a sign of unhealthy nails. According to Dr Sudeep, this condition is commonly associated with respiratory or cardiovascular disorders. These may include chronic lung disease, heart defects, or lung cancer. Clubbed nails may also be indicative of liver or gastrointestinal issues, necessitating a thorough medical evaluation.
Spoon nails
Also known as koilonychia, spoon nails exhibit a concave shape, resembling a spoon. Dr Dileep says this deformity can be linked to iron deficiency anaemia, wherein insufficient iron levels impair the body’s ability to produce healthy red blood cells. Addressing the underlying nutritional deficiency is crucial in resolving spoon nails and preventing further complications.
Nail thickening or thinning
Changes in nail thickness can provide valuable diagnostic clues. Dr Sudeep says that while thickened nails may suggest fungal infections or nail trauma, thinning nails can indicate thyroid dysfunction or impaired circulation. Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can manifest in brittle, thin nails along with other systemic symptoms.
Nail separation
Dr Sudeep says that trauma, fungal infections, or reactions to medications can trigger onycholysis, the separation of the nail plate from the underlying nail bed. Moreover, it may accompany autoimmune conditions like lupus or thyroid disease, necessitating prompt medical attention for accurate diagnosis and management, adds Dr Sudeep.
Nail ridges
Vertical or horizontal ridges on the nails can indicate different underlying issues. According to Dr Dileep, vertical ridges, often a result of ageing or genetics, are typically harmless. However, horizontal ridges, also known as Beau’s lines, may signal more significant health concerns such as nutritional deficiencies, diabetes, or severe illness. Maintaining the health of your nails requires keeping an eye on how your ridges are developing and treating any possible underlying problems.
