Doctor explains seven worrying health conditions people can spot just by checking their nails

The human body is a remarkable thing which can show us that our health is taking a dive, long before we go to the doctor.

Doctor at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, Dr Bhavini Shah, has come out to warn the British public that there is one part of your body you should be keeping a close eye on as it’ll help you to prevent certain illnesses.

She said that there are seven conditions this one area can help you to determine whether or not booking in with your GP is needed.

Can you guess what it is?

Your nails could tell you whether you're seriously ill. (Getty Stock Image)

It is, of course, your fingernails.

As per WalesOnline, she said: “It’s normal for nails to change over time. For example, nails often become more brittle as you age. Changes in nail texture are also common during pregnancy, although this should return to normal within six months of having a baby.

“Similarly, if you injure your nail, it’s not unusual for it to become loose, change colour, and even fall off completely. If this does happen, generally fingernails grow back within six months, although toenails can take up to 18 months.

“Some common and potentially serious diseases can present themselves through the appearance of your nails. You should see your GP if you notice a change in your nails that cannot be explained by something such as an injury.

“You should also consult a medical professional if the skin around your nail has become sore, red, swollen and sore because this can indicate an infection.”

You could have heart disease if you notice this one thing. (Getty Stock Image)

But what could the underlying cause be for these specific nail ailments? Let’s find out:

Spoon-shaped nails

This could mean you have iron deficiency anaemia.

The doctor said: “Spoon-shaped nails that curve inwards can be a sign of iron-deficiency anaemia. This condition is common after pregnancy and is where the level of iron in your blood is too low. Other symptoms include tiredness, shortness of breath, pale skin and headaches.”

Loose nails

This could be down to hyperthyroidism.

“Changes to your nails can also be a symptom of hyperthyroidism. This is where your thyroid gland overproduces certain hormones. Loose nails are a common symptom of hyperthyroidism.”

Brittle nails

You might have hypothyroidism.

“Brittle nails are a common sign of having an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) - where your thyroid gland under-produces hormones. It’s important an underactive thyroid is diagnosed as quickly as possible. This is usually done via a blood test.”

Red/ purple lines or clubbing

Heart disease could be the cause.

“Generally, red or purple lines under your nails are due to an injury. But if you notice these and don’t recall injuring your nail, you might want to book a doctor’s appointment because these can be a symptom of heart disease.

“Clubbing can also be a suggestion of heart disease, a major cause of death worldwide. This is where the nail curves over rounded fingertips or the ends of the toes, resulting in a bulbous appearance.

If you're not sure if your nails are trying to tell you something, go to your GP. (Getty Stock Image)

White nails

If you have ghostly nails, you should get checked for liver disease.

“Named after the doctor who discovered the symptom, Terry’s nails is a nail condition where over two-thirds of the nail bed becomes white except for a red or pink strip at the nail tip.

“Terry’s nail is a tell-tale sign of liver disease. Other symptoms of the disease include fatigue, yellow skin and loss of appetite.”

Small dents

Skin issues…

“Small dents or pits on the surface of the nails are common in people with skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema and alopecia areata - a specific type of hair loss.

“You’d expect other outward symptoms. For example, psoriasis typically causes dry, scaly patches of skin, while eczema causes the skin to become dry, itchy, cracked and sore. Alopecia areata involves patchy hair loss.”

Horizontal ridges lines

Bad health…

“Deep lines or grooves across your fingernails are known as Beau’s lines. This temporary disturbance of nail growth is usually caused by severe illness or infection. Some people developed Beau’s lines after they had COVID-19, for example.

“If you notice Beau’s lines and are concerned, I’d recommend booking an appointment with your GP to discuss your general health.”