Our nails are often overlooked when it comes to our overall health. We only think about it when we break a nail or get a manicure. Yet our fingernails can actually tell us a lot about our health. Read on to find out some of the signs that your nails are unhealthy and what the solutions are!
– Weak and dry nails:
Frequently breaking or chipping nails can be a sign of dehydration. Solution : Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Use hand cream or lotion to keep your hands and nails hydrated.
-Yellowing of the nails:
Yellow nails are often a sign of jaundice or liver disease. Solution : give your nails a little more care. Be sure to use a mild soap when washing your hands. Apply hand cream regularly to keep your nails hydrated.
You can also try using a nail polishing block to gently remove yellow spots. If your nails are still yellow after taking these steps, it may be time to see a doctor.
-White spots on the nails:
They are usually harmless, due to trauma to the nail, such as when you bump your finger against a hard object. The injury leads to the rupture of blood vessels under the nail, which leads to the appearance of these spots. In some cases, white spots can also be caused by a fungal infection or an allergic reaction.
Solution : this can be remedied by taking a daily supplement or by eating foods rich in zinc, such as oysters, lamb, spinach and wheat germ. If you think your white spots are due to a fungal infection, you can try using an over-the-counter antifungal cream or lotion.
– Digital clubbing:
i.e. the fact that the tips of the fingers widen and the nails curve around them, this can be a sign of a decrease in oxygen in the blood or a lung disease .
Solution : you can try using a cuticle cream or oil to keep the skin around your nails hydrated. You can also use a nail file to file thick areas. If these solutions do not bring any change, make an appointment with the doctor.
-Koïlonychia:
Spoon deformity, where the nails curl inward like spoons, can be a sign of iron deficiency anemia.
Solution : First, make sure you eat a balanced diet and drink enough water. Choose iron-rich foods. Next, reduce the varnish deposit. Finally, try using a humidifier in your home to help keep your nails hydrated.
– Nail pitting:
In other words, the small depressions that form on the surface of the nails can be a sign of psoriasis or eczema. Solution : consider consuming a vitamin D3 supplement, as you can use light therapy. In any case, consult your dermatologist to determine the necessary treatment.
– The ridges on the nails:
They can be due to aging or trauma and are usually not cause for concern. However, if they appear suddenly or are accompanied by other changes in your nails, they may be a sign of a lack of vitamin A, zinc or calcium. As they can be caused by drying out. Solution : Eat foods rich in calcium, vitamin A and zinc. Keep your nails hydrated. If no change has occurred, consult your doctor, especially if you are over 50 years old.
-Thickened nails:
They can be caused by fungal infections, psoriasis, eczema, diabetes, circulation problems or vitamin deficiencies.
Solution : First, be sure to keep your nails clean and trimmed. This will prevent dirt and debris from getting stuck under the nails which can lead to infection. You should also avoid contact with harsh cleansers or products, as they can further deteriorate the nail bed. Otherwise, you can see a doctor or dermatologist for further evaluation.
– Onycholysis:
Separated nails can be caused by psoriasis or eczema under the nail bed or by wearing tight shoes that compress the toes.
Solution : First, avoid water whenever possible or wear rubber gloves if you have to. Then keep your nails trimmed. Avoid harsh chemicals such as cleaning products or varnish deposit and the use of solvent. If separations occur regularly or are severe, consult your doctor for treatment options.
Conclusion :
Our fingernails may seem like the last thing on our minds! However, they can tell us more about what threatens our body. By paying attention to the changes in our nails, we can anticipate any potential health issues! See your doctor if you notice any changes in your nails so they can determine the cause and offer you equivalent treatment options!
