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Ever wonder why your own nails are so brittle, yellowish, or otherwise discolored? Even though you may not know it, these actually harmless symptoms may show you have certain hidden health issues.
As stated by John Anthony, MD, a dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio and Debra Jaliman, MD, a New York City-based dermatologist and author of "Skin Rules," there are specific nail symptoms that certainly should not be neglected. Here's what 8 various nail conditions are signaling regarding your health.
1. Yellow Nails
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Based on WebMD, one of the most typical causes of yellow nails is a fungal infection. But in unusual cases, they also state that it can tell us a more major condition which include diabetes, thyroid disease, or lung disease. Smoking can even stain the nails yellow.
2. Cracked or Brittle Nails
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Dr. Jailman indicates cracked or brittle nails can be an indication that the nail plate is extremely dry. The condition has also been associated with thyroid disease. Hypothyroidism sometimes leads to this side effect as well.
3. Pitted Nails
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As outlined by MedicineNet, nail pitting is due to the defective development of the layers of the nail plate, which is common for anyone affected by psoriasis.
4. Ridged Nails
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Dr. Anthony clarifies that the reason people will see horizontal ridges on their nails is the fact that there might be direct trauma to the nail, or it could also result in a far more serious health issue, wherein case you’ll see it on more than one nail. That's because the entire body is focusing its strength on preventing the illness rather than the nails.
5. Discolored or Dark Lines Beneath
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As stated by WebMD, discoloration or a dark line on the nail can often be caused by melanoma, the riskiest type of skin cancer. Melanoma can also trigger a black line or stripe on the nail. It's necessary to visit your doctor immediately if you notice this.
6. Bitten Nails
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Based on Medical Daily, the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) classifies nail-biting as one of the indications of obsessive compulsive condition. If this becomes severe, you should visit your doctor.
7. Bluish Nails
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WebMD points out that when your nails become bluish, it is a sign that the body might not be obtaining enough oxygen. Lung issues and heart problems are among the potential causes.
8. White Spots
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Some have incorrectly thought that white spots on nails indicate calcium deficiency, but Dr. Anthony states that they are often a result of trauma much like hitting your finger against something.
Source:
providr.com
