How to Read Your Fingernails for Possible Health Issues

For those who are concerned about their health, the answer may be found by looking at their fingernails.  Paying attention to any changes and knowing what to look for in your fingernails can be very helpful in determining whether you have any health conditions.

• Look for nails that have horizontal ridges, as well as nails that are weak and brittle, as this can indicate a possible iron deficiency.  Brittle nails can also be a sign of kidney, thyroid or circulation problems.


• Notice if there are any dark lines or spots underneath the fingernail, as these lines and spots can be caused by melanoma.


• Look for nails that are both pink and white in color, as this can be an indicator of kidney disease.


• Look at the color of your fingernails, as different colors can indicate a number of different conditions and diseases.  While nails that are red in color can be an indicator of heart disease; nails that are white or pale in color may point to anemia or liver disease.  Nails that have taken on a yellowish tint can be a sign of diabetes, as well as a liver, respiratory or lymphatic disease.  Green nails may indicate a fungal infection, and nails that are bluish in color may be due to asthma or emphysema.


• Look at the texture of your fingernails.  If nails look pitted or have a rippled look, this can be an indicator of psoriasis.  If you feel bumps on your fingernails, this can be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis.


• Pay attention to nail growth.  Nails that are slow to grow may be a sign of lung disease.  Lung disease can also cause yellowish nails and excess tissue around the ends of the fingers.

Tips

• If you notice any unusual changes in your fingernails, it is best to schedule an appointment with your doctor to rule out any possible health conditions.