Did
you know your nails can reveal clues to your overall health? A touch of
white
here, a rosy tinge there, or some rippling or bumps may be a sign of
disease in the body. Problems in the liver, lungs, and heart can show up
in your nails. Keep reading to learn what secrets your nails might
reveal.
Pale Nails 
Very pale nails are sometimes linked to aging. But they can also be a sign of serious illness, such as:
· Anemia
· Congestive heart failure
· Diabetes
· Liver disease
· Malnutrition
White Nails 
If
the nails are mostly white with darker rims, this can indicate liver
problems, such as hepatitis. In this image, you can see the fingers are
also jaundiced, another sign of
liver trouble.
Yellow Nails 
One
of the most common causes of yellow nails is a fungal infection. As the
infection worsens, the nail bed may retract, and nails may thicken and
crumble. In rare cases, yellow nails can indicate a more serious
condition such as severe thyroid disease or psoriasis
Bluish Nails 
Nails
with a bluish tint can mean the body isn't getting enough oxygen. This
could indicate an infection in the lungs, such as pneumonia.
Rippled Nails 
If
the nail surface is rippled or pitted, this may be an early sign of
psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis. Psoriasis is a skin condition that
starts in the nails 10% of the time.
Cracked or Split Nails 
Dry,
brittle nails that frequently crack or split have been linked to
thyroid disease. Cracking or splitting combined with a yellowish hue is
more likely due to a fungal infection
Puffy Nail Fold 
If
the skin around the nail appears red and puffy, this is known as
inflammation of the nail fold. It may be the result of lupus or another
connective tissue
disorder.
Dark Lines Beneath the Nail 
Dark
lines beneath the nail should be investigated as soon as possible. They
are sometimes caused by melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin
cancer.
Gnawed Nails 
Biting
your nails may be
nothing more than an old habit, but in some cases it's a sign of
persistent anxiety that could benefit from treatment. Nail biting or
picking has also been linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder. If you
can't stop, it's worth discussing with your doctor.
Nails Are Only Part of the Puzzle 
Though
nail changes accompany many conditions, these changes are rarely the
first sign. And many nail abnormalities are harmless -- not everyone
with white nails has hepatitis. If you're concerned about the appearance
of your nails, see a dermatologist
.
