Perhaps you have even taken to nail wraps that display a variety of unique patterns chosen to make your friends say “wow.” You might even swear by pedicures that make your feet look perfectly pampered. After all, there’s nothing sexier than 10 beautifully enamored tootsies.
Nails -- we love to paint them, pamper them, and make them look absolutely fabulous. But underneath that glowing exterior is an essential roadmap to health, one that people need to be aware of.
Nails can reveal a number of different health conditions. That’s because the shape, color, and texture of the nail itself can change when health issues occur.
This means that it’s important to periodically strip those nails of their glowing exterior in order to see just what lies beneath. (Scary thought, we know.)
So just what are the nails saying about health? Here are six important health issues that the nails can reveal.
1. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a long-lasting condition in which the body produces skin cells too quickly. This can cause changes to both the skin and the nails. In fact, experts say that up to fifty percent of those with psoriasis may see symptoms on the nails. And in those with psoriatic arthritis, this statistic jumps to eighty percent.
When it comes to nail psoriasis, a number of symptoms can occur. The first is pitting of the nails. In addition, the nail may present with a gap underneath it. Portions of the tip may even turn white or yellow, with changes that can be seen as far down the nail as the cuticle. In addition, a chalk-type buildup may show up underneath the nail that may be painful upon touch. Or the nail may turn a yellowish brown color. The nail can even increase in thickness due to a fungal infection called onychomycosis that often occurs in combination with nail psoriasis. (Experts say that 35 percent of those with nail psoriasis also develop a fungal infection.)
Anyone who notices these changes on the nails should see a dermatologist to rule out this and other conditions.
2. Iron Deficiency Anemia
Experts say that iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, anemia occurs when the body lacks red blood cells that are healthy. And iron deficiency anemia develops when the body lacks iron, which assists in the production of red blood cells.
This condition can occur for a number of reasons -- from heavy periods to a vegetarian diet. In addition, health issues like Crohn and Celiac disease can cause iron deficiency anemia.
When iron deficiency anemia occurs, the nails can become brittle with elevated ridges. In addition, the nails can take on a unique shape called koilonychia, which looks much like a spoon.
3. Kidney Disease
Kidney disease and nail changes go hand in hand. In fact, doctors say that certain changes in the appearance of the nail can be a sign of acute or chronic kidney disease.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, the first of these is what doctors refer to as Beau’s lines. These are horizontal lines that run from one side of the nail to the other. It is thought that Beau’s lines can be a symptom of acute kidney disease.
Another telltale nail issue associated with kidney disease is ridged nails (medically referred to as koilonychia). This can be seen when the nails become rough with ridges.
In addition, nails can develop spots and white streaks. These symptoms can indicate chronic kidney disease.
4. Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid disease is a condition that strikes more women than men. The thyroid is a regulator of sorts. It controls many things in your body, like metabolism and heart rate.
When thyroid function is disrupted, a surge or lack of thyroid hormones occurs in the body. As a result, there may be drastic changes in weight --with either weight gain if the body isn’t making enough hormones, or weight loss if it’s making too much.
When one has thyroid disease, he or she can develop a condition called onycholysis. According to the Mayo Clinic, this occurs when the nail actually detaches from the bed of the nail. In addition, the detached portion of the nail takes on a white, yellow, or green appearance.
If this condition occurs, it’s essential to see a doctor to have the thyroid tested. Medications are usually needed to regulate thyroid issues.
5. Liver Health
Liver disease is an issue that can occur at any age. And it’s one of the leading causes of death in the United States. One well-known way to detect issues in the liver is through the basic appearance of the fingernails.
According to Liver Support, there are a number of telltale signs in the fingernails that can signal underlying liver issues. The first is the nail taking on a general pale appearance in color. In addition, nails can develop a condition known as clubbing. In this condition, the nails start to look as if they’re bulging out. Further, nails can develop Muehrcke’s Lines. These are white lines that run in pairs across the nail. And finally, a condition called Terry’s nails may occur. In this condition, the tip of the nail develops a dark band.
6. Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease that affects more than 29 million Americans. Unfortunately, one in four people has no clue that he or she has diabetes.
When diabetes spins out of control, it can cause complications. This is especially true of toenails. In fact, those with diabetes often report a yellowing and thickening of the toenails. This is a sign of toenail fungus, which is said to be twice as likely to occur in those with this illness.
If this type of change occurs in the toenails, see a doctor to diagnose the issue. For anyone who is diabetic, don’t dismiss this health concern. Amputations and diabetes go hand in hand. So treat all issues that occur early and often.