Fingernails and toenails are a window into our overall health. Strong, smooth, clear nails are a sign that you're doing pretty well. But certain changes in your nails can be indicators of underlying health issues.
Anemia
Liver disease
Sometimes called Terry nails, nails that are opaque white are frequently seen in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis — a deterioration of the liver due to excessive, prolonged alcohol consumption.
Hepatitis
Liver diseases, such as hepatitis, affect the organ's ability to manufacture the blood's proteins, including albumin. This lack shows up in cloudy or ridged nails. This can also show up as a side effect in medications prescribed to treat hepatitis.
Jaundice
Just as other white areas of bodies become yellow if the liver is jaundiced, nails, too, can appear yellow. If a dermatologist determines your yellow nails are not due to a fungal infection, be sure to talk to your doctor about what might be causing yellowing in your nails.
Malnutrition
Poor nutrition — not getting your vitamins and minerals, or not eating enough in general — shows up in the nails. Malnutrition can show up in the weakening of nails. Over time, it can cause nails to invert and "spoon" or develop ridges.
Melanoma
Dark spots under the nail bed can easily happen through injury. However, bruises and scabs under the nail bed eventually go away. Dark spots that appear without memorably slamming your fingers in a door or are otherwise suspicious could be melanoma, a serious form of cancer. Show your doctor or dermatologist, if your gut tells you something is off.
Thyroid
Nails may also show signs of thyroid problems, particularly hypothyroidism. It causes nails to be weak, brittle, and to split easily. If you're experiencing other signs of thyroid issues and nail problems, as well, it's time to talk to your doctor.
