Doctor reveals 7 health issues you can detect by looking at your nails

Your nails do more than just add beauty to your hands; they can tell stories about your health. From changes in their color to alterations in shape, your fingernails might reveal health conditions that you wouldn’t expect. While nail problems aren’t always serious, it’s helpful to know what your body could be trying to tell you.

Why Your Nails Matter

According to Dr. Sara Norris, a naturopathic doctor from Los Angeles, nail issues such as brittle or weak nails often signal poor nutrition or digestion. “Most people don’t need to worry too much about nail health unless there are other noticeable symptoms,” she says. If your nails don’t improve or if you have additional symptoms like tiredness, swelling, or weight loss, it’s a good idea to speak with a doctor.

Common Nail Conditions and What They Could Mean

Beau’s Lines

These are deep lines or grooves running across the nail. Dr. Bhavini Shah from Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor explains that these lines appear when nail growth is interrupted by serious illness or stress. For instance, some people noticed Beau’s lines after recovering from COVID-19. If these lines are a frequent problem or you notice gaps in your nails, it’s best to get it checked out.

Clubbed Nails

Clubbing is when the nails curve over rounded, swollen fingertips. This condition may develop slowly and could point to heart or lung issues. If you haven’t had an injury but notice red or purple lines under your nails, it might be wise to consult your doctor.

Spoon Nails

Nails that curve inwards, resembling a spoon, may suggest iron deficiency anemia, which is common after pregnancy or due to poor nutrition. If you experience other symptoms like shortness of breath or headaches, consider visiting a doctor for a blood test.

Pitting or Denting

Small dents in your nails could mean skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema. Psoriasis often comes with patches of dry, scaly skin, while eczema causes itchy, cracked areas. Alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that results in hair loss, may also cause pitting. A dermatologist can help diagnose the cause.

Dark Streaks (Melanoma): A dark line running down your nail could be harmless, but in some cases, it’s a sign of melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer. If you see this change, don’t wait—get it checked early, as melanoma is treatable if caught soon.

Terry’s Nails:

This condition is where most of the nail bed appears white except for a pink or red tip. Dr. Shah notes that Terry’s nails may signal liver disease or other serious conditions like diabetes and heart disease. It can also be a natural sign of aging.

Yellow Nails

Often, yellow nails are due to a fungal infection. Although it can take a while to treat, this condition usually isn’t painful. In rarer cases, yellow nails could indicate underlying issues like diabetes, thyroid problems, or lung disease.

If you notice unusual changes in your nails, don’t panic. Simple things like age, injuries, or minor infections can be the reason. However, if the changes persist or come with other symptoms, it’s wise to seek medical advice. Your nails might be telling you more than you think about your overall health.

What do you think about these insights? Have you ever noticed these or other signs in your nails? Share your thoughts or personal experiences in the comments below!