AboveTheRayne

I noticed one of my nails was peeling, the others were relatively fine. However, I was greatly
concerned about the reason beneath the problem of the nail. Hence decided to look into the
situation by conducting a little research of my own. I was amazed with all the marvelous
information I found. Documenting such below…

1. Dark Lines Beneath the Nail

Dark lines beneath the nail should be investigated as soon as possible. They are sometimes
caused by melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer.

2. White Nails

If the nails are mostly white with darker rims, this can indicate liver problems, such as
hepatitis. In this image, you can see the fingers are also jaundiced, another sign of liver
trouble.

3. Pale Nails

Very pale nails can sometimes be a sign of serious illness, such as:
• Anemia
• Congestive heart failure
• Liver disease
• Malnutrition

4. Rippled Nails

If the nail surface is rippled or pitted, this may be an early sign of psoriasis or
inflammatory arthritis. Discoloration of the nail is common; the skin under the nail
can seem reddish-brown.

5. Cracked or Split Nails

Dry, brittle nails that frequently crack or split have been linked to thyroid disease.
Cracking or splitting combined with a yellowish hue is more likely due to a fungal
infection.

6. Gnawed Nails

Biting your nails may be nothing more than an old habit, but in some cases it’s a sign
of persistent anxiety that could benefit from treatment. Nail biting or picking has also
been linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder. If you can’t stop, it’s worth discussing
with your doctor.

7. Bluish Nails

Nails with a bluish tint can mean the body isn’t getting enough oxygen. This could indicate
a lung problem, such as emphysema. Some heart problems can be associated with bluish nails.

8. Yellow Nails

One of the most common causes of yellow nails is a fungal infection. As the infection worsens,
the nail bed may retract, and nails may thicken and crumble. In rare cases, yellow nails can
indicate a more serious condition such as severe thyroid disease, lung disease, diabetes or
psoriasis.

9. Puffy Nail Fold

If the skin around the nail appears red and puffy, this is known as inflammation of the nail
fold. It may be the result of lupus or another connective tissue disorder. Infection can also
cause redness and inflammation of the nail fold.

10. Nails Are Only Part of the Puzzle
Though nail changes accompany many conditions, these changes are rarely the first sign.
And many nail abnormalities are harmless — not everyone with white nails has hepatitis.
If you’re concerned about the appearance of your nails, see a dermatologist.

INFORMATION GATHERED FROM WEB M.D.