What’s happening within our bodies is often reflected on the exterior, as anybody who has lived with hormonal acne knows. If we know where to look, we can find clues about our health. And it turns out that our nails are one of those obvious locations. Here’s what you should know:
A Black Streak
Melanoma can be detected by a new black stripe in the nail. Melanoma is a potentially fatal kind of skin cancer that is produced by an excess of pigment-producing cells. It can even grow under the nail in rare situations. So, if you see a new black splotch under your nail, consult your dermatologist. Trauma and a resultant bruise under the nail are the most typical causes of a sudden onset of a black blotch. However, you should always double-check that it isn’t something else. If the cuticle is going black, this is a cause for concern.
Pits or Divots
Pits or divots in your nails might indicate an underlying autoimmune problem. Nail alterations have been linked to conditions such as psoriasis and alopecia. When there is inflammation in the nail matrix, which is the area just beneath your cuticle where the nail is generated, the nail does not develop properly, resulting in pits.
Yellowish Colour
Yellow nails are usually an indication of discoloration from dark polish. But for most cases, yellow nails can be caused by nail thickness caused by illnesses such as thyroid disease, diabetes, or fungal infections of the nail itself. Book a doctor’s appointment to get a clearer picture on this.
Milky White
If your nails are going white, you may be suffering from Terry’s nails. There is a tiny band of normal colour at the free border of the nail here, but the nails generally turn white. This might indicate liver or renal problems, as well as heart failure.
The Half Moon Shape
It might be an indication of malnutrition or anaemia, if you have lost the half moon at the base of your nails. Consult your doctor about getting some blood testing to see if there are any underlying concerns.
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