Experts are encouraging people to be vigilant about any unusual alterations to their fingernails which could indicate serious health issues. An array of deadly illnesses might be flagged by a colour change in your nails.
While some changes might be innocuous, there are particular hues that should prompt immediate medical consultation. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) has highlighted some worrying nail symptoms on its site, stating: “Have you noticed a change to any of your nails lately?
“A change in colour, texture, or shape can be harmless, but it can also be a sign of disease. If you notice any of the following changes to a fingernail or toenail, it’s time to see a board-certified dermatologist.”
In light of this, the AAD have advised keeping an eye out for the following alarming nail colours:
- White
- Half pink, half white
- Yellow
- Dusky red half-moons
As reported by The Mirror, they explained: “A disease inside your body can cause your nails to change colour. Certain colour changes can be a warning sign of a specific disease.”
The AAD warned that white nails may suggest liver conditions or diabetes, notably if cirrhosis, the most severe liver condition, is present. Nonetheless, white nails can also emerge as a normal aspect of aging, making it crucial to get such a symptom evaluated.
Half pink, half white nails could be a sign of kidney disease. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) further explained this symptom as: “A white colour on the upper part of one or more nails and a normal to reddish brown colour below.”
Yellow nails, on the other hand, could indicate lung disease. It’s believed that the change in colour is related to issues with your circulatory or lymphatic system.
“When these systems don’t work as they should, it can cause fluid to collect in the soft tissues under your skin. In turn, this may turn your nails yellow,” according to the Cleveland Clinic.
However, yellow nails could also be due to a nail infection or smoking cigarettes. Lastly, the AAD mentioned that dusky red half-moons on your nails could be a sign of various conditions including lupus, heart disease, alopecia areata, arthritis, and dermatomyositis.
Therefore, if you notice any of these colours on your nails, it’s advised to consult your doctor. Other nail colours that could indicate a health issue include blue nails – suggesting insufficient oxygen in your bloodstream, pale nails – indicating anaemia, and blue half-moons – which could be a sign of poisoning.