Your fingernails are more than just a cosmetic feature—they can reveal a lot about your internal health. Changes in color, texture, or shape can sometimes signal nutritional deficiencies, infections, or even serious systemic conditions. Here are 11 health warnings your fingernails may be sending:
1. White Nails
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Possible Cause: Liver issues like hepatitis or cirrhosis, anemia, or malnutrition.
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Note: A complete white nail with a darker rim could indicate serious liver problems.
2. Yellow Nails
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Possible Cause: Fungal infection, diabetes, or thyroid disease.
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Note: Thickened yellow nails can also be a sign of lung disease (like COPD).
3. Bluish Nails
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Possible Cause: Lack of oxygen in the blood, lung problems, or heart disease.
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Note: Seek medical attention immediately if accompanied by shortness of breath.
4. Pale or White with Pink
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Possible Cause: Anemia, heart failure, or malnutrition.
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Note: Persistent pale nails warrant blood tests to check hemoglobin levels.
5. Dark Lines Under the Nail
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Possible Cause: Trauma or melanoma (a type of skin cancer).
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Note: Any new dark streaks in your nail should be examined by a doctor.
6. Spoon-Shaped Nails (Koilonychia)
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Possible Cause: Iron deficiency anemia or hemochromatosis.
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Note: Nails curve upward at the edges like a spoon.
