13 Nail Signs That Warn of Serious Health Problems

Nail color

1. Gold nailsIn most cases, yellow nails are a sign of a fungal infection. In rare cases, yellow nails can be a symptom of thyroid disease, lung disease, diabetes, or psoriasis.

2. White nails with pink streaks on top:This could be a sign of congestive heart failure, kidney failure, diabetes, and certain liver problems such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.

3. Pale nails:If your nails look extremely pale, it could be a sign of several serious medical conditions such as anemia, congestive heart failure, malnutrition, or liver disease.

4. Dark red nails:Dark red fingernails may indicate heart disease. If the redness extends to the sides of the nail and the cuticle, it could be a sign of an autoimmune disease like lupus.

5. Nails that are slightly blue or purple:This is often a warning sign that the body isn't getting enough oxygen. Other possible causes include heart or lung problems such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis.

6. Other nail colorsIt can be a sign of many different health problems. For example, if your nails turn brown, you may have a thyroid condition or nutritional problems. Gray nails are often caused by taking certain prescription medications such as antimalarial drugs.

Foundation structure

1. Brittle nails, splitting nails:This is an easily recognizable symptom of hypothyroidism. Another possible cause is a deficiency in vitamins A, C, and biotin. If you paint your nails too often, especially with gel polish, your nails can also become worn down, weaker, and more brittle.

2. Nails with vertical stripes:This is a normal sign of aging, like wrinkles on the face. If you are young, this means your body is deficient in vitamin B12 or magnesium.

3. Nails with horizontal stripes:If it's not due to a nail injury, it could be a sign of scarlet fever or pneumonia.

4. Nails have many pitted spots:This could be a symptom of skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, or dermatitis. It could also be an early sign of connective tissue disorders, including arthritis.

Nail shape

1. Spoon-shaped nails:These could be signs of hemochromatosis, a disorder that occurs when the body produces too much iron. They could also be signs of iron-deficiency anemia, heart disease, and poor blood circulation.

2. Ingrown toenails:This is a sign of low oxygen levels in the blood, which can be caused by lung disease or a symptom of liver, kidney, heart, or inflammatory bowel disease.

3. Split nails:This is a sign of hyperthyroidism. Split nails can also be a symptom of fungal infection, psoriasis, or poor blood circulation.