Hands and nails are not only a symbol of our personality and manners, but also tell many important things about our health. Often people look at nails only for beauty, but experts say that nails are small messengers indicating the internal condition of the body. Nails grow at a slow rate of about 3 millimeters per month. Because of this slow growth, nails record subtle changes happening in the body over time. If the color, shape, thickness or texture of the nails changes, it can sometimes be a sign of a health problem.
Why is it important to pay attention to nails?
Skin experts say that it is not right to ignore the changes in nails. According to him, the color, texture and shape of nails can sometimes indicate serious diseases of the body. Just as yellow or spoon-like nails can be a sign of iron deficiency anemia, yellow and thick nails can indicate fungal infections or lung problems. Dark spots or change in color on the nails, in some cases it can also be a sign of a serious disease like skin cancer. According to the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), changes in nails can reflect nutritional deficiencies, heart disease, lung diseases and metabolic conditions.
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These signs range from iron deficiency to lung disease.
1. Sign of iron deficiency – Iron helps in delivering oxygen to the body. When there is iron deficiency, the body starts saving energy. Nails, which are made of keratin and depend on good blood flow, are the first to show signs of this deficiency. Due to iron deficiency, nails can become yellow, thin or weak, sometimes turning inwards and taking a spoon-like shape. By compensating the iron deficiency, the nails gradually return to normal shape and strength.
2. Signs related to lungs and infection – Yellowing and thickening of nails often indicates fungal infection. If yellow nails persist for a long time and are accompanied by breathing problems or swelling, it may indicate a rare condition called yellow nail syndrome. Yellow nail syndrome may be associated with chronic lung problems such as bronchiectasis or pleural disease. This does not mean that every yellow nail is a sign of lung disease, but if there are persistent changes, it is important to consult a doctor.
3. Dark spots or color change on nails – Sometimes thin or dark lines that appear on the nail are harmless, but some lines can be a sign of subungual melanoma.
4. Changing the shape of nails – Clubbing is often a sign of prolonged lack of oxygen in the blood. It may be associated with congenital heart disease, chronic lung diseases or inflammatory bowel disease.
5. Weak or streaked nails – Vertical stripes on nails, weakness or breaking easily can often indicate nutritional deficiencies, thyroid disorders or prolonged stress. Deficiency of biotin, zinc, iron and protein can cause weak nails.
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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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