6 diseases that can be detected through nail shape
Seemingly small changes in your fingernails can tell you a lot about your health.
There are seemingly small changes in your fingernails that can tell you a lot about your health. Here's how to read your health through your fingernails, according to the Vietnam Institute of Applied Medicine:
Circulatory problems
Changes in the shape, color, and texture of your nails can be a sign of a serious problem. Some people have a genetic predisposition to crooked nails.
However, if your nails suddenly change shape and tend to curl into the flesh, it could be a sign of heart and lung-related diseases such as emphysema, lung cancer, congenital heart disease or cirrhosis.
Anemia
Typical spoon-shaped nails. Photo: Getty
If your nails are concave, shaped like small drops of water on the nail and do not spread, also known as "spoon nails," it is often due to iron deficiency.
If you notice your nails taking on this shape, see your doctor to be tested for anemia.
Hemorrhage
After a severe blow to your nail, you may notice a red or black spot forming under the nail. This spot may last for months.
This is called a subungual hemorrhage, and it happens when you bleed under your nail and the blood gets trapped. It can be so dark that it looks almost black.
However, in rare cases, it can be a malignant melanoma under the skin. This is a rare type of skin cancer and requires prompt examination and treatment.
Autoimmune disease
Pitted nails, which look like small depressions running along the surface of the nail, are associated with psoriasis. They can also be a sign of alopecia areata.
Thyroid problems
Nail symptoms may be related to thyroid problems. Photo: Getty
Brittle or easily broken nails can be caused by problems such as hypothyroidism, Raynaud's disease, and protein deficiency. If you normally have strong nails but suddenly they are brittle or easily broken, you should have your thyroid hormone checked.
Metal poisoning
Most white lines on fingernails are normal or may appear after injury.
However, a crescent-shaped white line appearing at the tip of the nail can be a serious problem. It is a sign of arsenic or other heavy metal poisoning, or it can also be a side effect of chemotherapy.
If you experience the above symptoms, see your doctor for a general health assessment./.
