Nails are not merely an artistic feature,they are a reflection of ourselves. Women spend about more than $900 million annually on nail polish and manicures and pedicures world-wide. Perfectly made up nails, not only add a look to our personality and outfit, but also makes one confident. They are a window, not only to our personality but also to our health.
Nails reflect general state of health and any changes in the nail, such as discoloration or thickening, signify various health problems including disorders of liver and kidney, heart and lung conditions, anaemia, and diabetes.
The growth rate of our nails also gives clues about the underlying health conditions. Healthy nails grow, on average 3.5 mm a month, but this is also influenced by your nutritional status, medications, trauma, chronic disease, and the aging process itself.
Nail and their health indications:
1. Bluish Nails:
Nails with a bluish tint can mean lack of oxygen. This could indicate a lung problem, such as emphysema or some heart problems.
2. Cracked or Split Nails:
Dry, brittle nails that frequently crack or split indicate thyroid disease. Cracking or splitting of nails with a yellowish tone is more likely due to a fungal infection.Brittle nails may also be due to a deficiency in vitamins A and C or the B vitamin biotin.
3. Dark Lines beneath the Nail:
Dark lines beneath the nail are sometimes caused by melanoma.
4. Gnawed Nails:
Nail biting or picking has also been linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder.
5. Pale Nails:
Very pale nails can sometimes be a sign of serious illness, such as:Anaemia, Congestive heart failure, Liver disease, Malnutrition
6. Puffy Nail Fold:
If the skin around the nail appears red and puffy, this is known as inflammation of the nail fold, which is a result of lupus or another connective tissue disorder.
7. Ridges:
Vertical ridges are a normal sign of aging and may be due to nutrient deficiencies, including vitamin B12 and magnesium.
8. Rippled Nails:
If the nail surface is rippled or pitted, this may be an early sign of psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis.
9. White Nails:
If the nails are mostly white with darker rims, this can indicate hepatitis.
10. White Spots:
Small white spots on nails are the result of nail trauma and will fade or grow out on their own.
11. Yellow Nails:
One of the most common causes of yellow nails is a fungal infection. In rare cases, yellow nails indicate a more serious condition such as severe thyroid disease, lung disease, diabetes or psoriasis.Smoking can also stain nails a yellowish hue.
By: Archa Dave
