Warning Signs That You Are Unhealthy
Issues With Finger And Toenails

Issues with finger and toenails could be indicative of nutritional deficiencies, thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease, cancers, and infections. For example, vertical ridges on the nails are a potential sign of vitamin B12, magnesium, or iron deficiencies, and black streaks on the nails could indicate the presence of melanoma or other skin cancers. Clubbing of the nails, in which the nails curve downward and the fingertips enlarge, is associated with reduced levels of oxygen in the blood that may be related to heart disease, lung disease, and some liver or kidney conditions. Nails with a spoon-like appearance, curving up at the ends, could be signs of iron-deficiency anemia, cardiovascular issues, or hypothyroidism. Yellow nails may be due to fungal infections. Patients who notice changes to their nails should consider seeing their physician for blood tests that can detect nutritional abnormalities and other conditions. Medications to treat fungal infections will usually alleviate yellow nails, and correcting nutritional deficiencies with vitamin and mineral supplements often returns nails to their normal shape.
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