Fungal infections: The most common cause
Lymphedema or poor circulation: These occur with yellow nail syndrome
Diabetes or thyroid problems: These can change the color of your nails over time
Smoking or contact with chemicals: These can cause yellow nails
In rare cases, thickened, yellow nails, associated with slow growth and swelling around the cuticles, can indicate a respiratory or immune system disorder.
What to do: If the cause appears to be cosmetic, try antifungal treatment. However, if the change is unexplained or persistent, consult a doctor.
🧊6. Pale nails: a warning sign of anemia or liver disease
If your nails lose their natural pink hue and become pale or whitish, this could be a sign of:
Anemia: low red blood cell count.
Liver disease: reduction of proteins and pigments in the nail bed.
Heart failure: caused by reduced blood flow
. In some cases, the nail bed may appear almost white: this is the case with so-called sponge nails, which often occur in patients with liver cirrhosis or diabetes.
✅What to do: If your nails have changed dramatically, you should consider testing for iron, vitamin B12, and liver function.
🩺7. Brittle, peeling, or cracked nails: These can indicate thyroid problems or aging. Brittle nails that peel, break, or form vertical or horizontal lines can be a sign of:
Hypothyroidism, aging, dehydration or excessive exposure to chemicals,
Raynaud’s disease or autoimmune diseases.
Vertical lines are often harmless and age-related, while horizontal lines (Beau’s lines) or severe brittleness may indicate an underlying problem.
✅What to do: Use moisturizing oils like jojoba or vitamin E. Consult a doctor if you suspect a hormonal imbalance.
🔍How to check if your nails are healthy
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