Issue 133

Page 30

WHAT DO YOUR NAILS SAY ABOUT YOUR HEALTH? BY NATHAN PIPKIN

We all know that biting our fingernails is a bad habit, but did you realize that the condition of your nails can tell you a lot about your physical health? There are a surprising number of disorders indicated in your nails' color, shape, and texture. Being aware of these conditions is necessary for us to take care of ourselves properly. Read on to discover what they are and learn about how you can improve your nail health!

What Are My Nails Trying to Tell Me? The most concerning condition that your nails might indicate is melanoma, which is one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer. If you see a dark streak that runs the length of your nail, you should see a dermatologist right away. More discoloration can be less ominous for your nail health. Brown, yellow, or yellow-red discoloration might indicate psoriasis, which is a skin disease that is not lifethreatening but often affects skin and nails. The state of your nail health can even hint at kidney disease. There are three main signs, so be sure to look out for all of them. The first is "Beau's lines," which run sideto-side across your nails. Second, ridges in your nails can also indicate kidney disease. The final sign that your nail health may be pointing at kidney disease is white streaks or spots, which would be distinct and pronounced.


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