5 Things your fingernails can tell you about your health (and how to fix them)

Like hair, your nails will naturally undergo small changes over time as a result of age, nutritional deficiencies, prolonged exposure to chemicals or environmental aggressors. It is, however, important to recognise the signs of healthy nails, as well as abnormalities that could indicate an underlying medical condition.

We break down five of the most common nail problems and how to fix them.

1. Yellow nails

According to Cape Town-based dermatologist Dr Ayesha Y Moolla, the most common causes of yellow nails is the overuse of nail polish, tar and nicotine from cigarettes, turmeric and other chemical substances. Measures such as applying a protective base coat, intermittent breaks from the use of polish and manicures that include light buffing of the nails could help combat this discolouration. Regular moisturising with a ceramide-rich emollient could also help eliminate these yellow stains. Should the problem persist or discolouration occur more rapidly, it could indicate a more serious problem suc as fungus, thyroid, liver and lung diseases or nutritional deficiencies such as low iron or zinc. In this regard, a visit to a dermatologist is strongly advised.

2. Dry, cracked or brittle nails

Dry, cracked or brittle nails is usually an indicator of poor diet or too little moisture, says Gauteng-based dermatologist Dr Temi Awotedu. Repeated washing and drying of hands, overexposure to detergents and overuse of nail polish remover can also lead to weaker nails. Dr Awotedu recommends rubbing vitamin E oil or shea butter cream into your nails and cuticles once or twice daily as well as before bed and also ensuring sufficient intake of vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iodine, iron and magnesium.

3. White spots

Also known as leukonychia, white spots are a common occurrence on nails and are usually a result of a damaged nail bed. Frequent manicures, use of gel or acrylic nails or bumping your finger or nail all lead to this kind of damage, as it wears down the surface of the nail. When it comes to treatment, both Dr Moolla and Awotedu agree that the best course of action is to let the spots grow out naturally over time. Regular use of a nail-strengthening serum or base coat, applying a nourishing cuticle cream infused with aloe vera, squalene and botanical oils as well as sticking to a diet filled with foods that promote healthy nail growth such as carrots, green vegetables, eggs and fish will all help keep those pesky white spots at bay.

4. Horizontal or vertical ridges

Ridges are akin to wrinkles in the nail. Quite common and normal, factors such as ageing, genetics, compromised circulation and excessive exposure to chemicals and water may all contribute to the appearance of them. “Vertical ridges are most commonly seen in older individuals. Rarely, they may also indicate diabetes or vitamin deficiencies. Deep horizontal ridges are also known as Beaus lines and may indicate an underlying illness”, says Dr Moolla. She goes on to say that “although not everyone will develop vertical ridges, there is no way of preventing them from forming in ageing nails. Furthermore, a balanced, varied and nutritious diet will provide the fuel to promote healthy nail growth”.

5. Flaky/peeling nails

“Excessive washing, peeling of nail varnish, over buffing of nails, use of acrylic nails and exposing nails to certain chemicals can all lead to the peeling or flaking of nails,” says Dr Moolla. She also advises that utilising a nourishing polish remover, avoiding the use of acrylic/gel nails, regular trimming of the nails and gently filing them to a rounded shape can all help alleviate flaky nails. However, she does stress that if the flaky nails are painful or bleeding, you should seek medical advice as this could be a sign of a more severe condition such as thyroid disease, diabetes, lung disease or anaemia.

IMAGE CREDIT: 123rf.com