Most of us associate our nails only with beauty. Someone colors them, someone cuts them, someone makes designs on them. But do you know that your nails are not just a part of decoration, but are also a mirror of your health. According to doctors and health experts, the color, texture and shape of nails can indicate many diseases going on inside our body.
Sometimes the initial symptoms of serious diseases like heart, lungs, liver, thyroid or even cancer start appearing in the form of changes in the nails. If the color of the nails suddenly changes, strange spots appear on them, or they appear thick, brittle, or swollen. So ignoring it is not free from danger. So let us know which diseases these changes seen in the nails can indicate.
How to determine health status from nails?
1. Yellow nails – If your nails have started turning yellow, the most common reason could be fungal infection. In this condition the nails gradually become thick, weak and prone to breaking. However, in some cases, yellow nails can also be a sign of serious diseases like thyroid disease, lung problem, psoriasis or diabetes. If nails remain yellow for a long time, definitely consult a doctor.
2. White nails or white spots- Seeing white spots on nails is a common problem, which is called leukonychia in medical language. Often these spots occur due to minor injury to the nail, allergy or any infection. In some cases, it may also be a sign of side effects of medicines or lack of nutrients in the body. If white spots appear again and again or the entire nail starts turning white, then it is important to get it checked.
3. Blue nails – If your nails start appearing blue or purple, it may be a sign of lack of oxygen in the body. This condition indicates disease related to heart or lungs. Additionally, blue nails can also be caused by Wilson’s disease, silver poisoning or vitamin B12 deficiency. This is a serious sign, which should not be ignored.
Dark Red Half Moon on Nails
Usually a light white half moon is visible under the nails, but if it turns dark red, then be careful. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), it can be a sign of diseases like lupus, heart disease and arthritis. In such a situation, it is important to contact a doctor immediately.
Swelling around nails (Swollen Nail Folds)
If the skin around the nails becomes red, swollen and painful, it is called chronic paronychia. This problem often occurs due to allergy, exposure to moisture or fungal infection. If it is not treated on time, it can take a serious form. Usually it is treated with medicines and creams.
Dark Lines on Nails
If new or changing dark lines appear under the nail, and they are not caused by any injury, it can be a serious warning. According to the AAD, in some cases it may be a sign of skin cancer (melanoma). In such a situation, it is very important to immediately go to the hospital and get checked.
Clubbing of Nails
When nails become wide, round and sponge-like, it is called clubbing of nails. Clubbing is usually a sign of long-term disease, such as lung cancer, heart disease or serious lung problems.
Also read: Alzheimer’s Disease: Alzheimer’s took away memory, but could not erase love, how did the person struggling with the disease keep his relationship alive?
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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