What Your Fingernails Say About Your Health

What Your Fingernails Say About Your Health

Most of us cut, polish, or sometimes even bite our nails without giving them much thought. But did you know your fingernails can reveal a lot about your health?

Doctors often look at nails during check-ups because they act like tiny windows into what’s going on inside your body.

Let’s understand what your nails might be trying to tell you.

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Normal Healthy Nails

• Smooth surface

• Slight pink color

• No ridges, spots, or discoloration

If your nails look like this, you’re probably doing just fine. But if you notice sudden changes, it may be worth paying attention.

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Common Nail Signs and What They Mean

1. Brittle or Weak Nails

• Often linked to frequent washing, exposure to detergents, or overuse of nail polish remover.

• Can also mean iron deficiency or thyroid problems.

2. White Spots

• Usually harmless, caused by minor injury to the nail bed.

• Persistent white patches may indicate zinc deficiency.

3. Yellow Nails

• Can happen due to nail polish, fungal infections, or smoking.

• In rare cases, linked to lung disease or diabetes.

4. Pale or White Nails

• Very pale nails may be a sign of anemia, liver disease, or poor nutrition.

5. Bluish Nails

• If nails turn bluish, it may mean low oxygen levels in the blood (possible lung or heart condition).

6. Ridges on Nails

• Vertical ridges (top to bottom) are usually normal with aging.

• Deep horizontal ridges (Beau’s lines) may indicate severe illness, stress, or nutritional deficiency.

7. Pitted Nails (Small Dents)

• Often linked to psoriasis, eczema, or autoimmune disorders.

8. Dark Lines Under the Nails

• Could be caused by injury.

• But if it appears suddenly on one nail, it should be checked for skin cancer (melanoma).

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How to Keep Your Nails Healthy

• Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins.

• Keep nails clean and dry to avoid fungal infections.

• Moisturize nails and cuticles regularly.

• Limit harsh chemicals (like strong nail polish removers).

• Don’t ignore sudden nail changes — they may be a warning sign.

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Final Word

Your nails are more than just a beauty detail — they are tiny health messengers. If you notice unusual color, texture, or shape changes, especially if they appear suddenly, don’t ignore them. Sometimes, your nails speak before the rest of your body shows symptoms.

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