At LifeStream at North Phoenix, we’re committed to helping our residents enjoy good health and a high quality of life for as long as possible. We’ve put together a quick guide to help you know what to watch for and what to do if you notice changes in your nails.

Why Fingernails Can Reflect Health

Your nails have three main parts: the nail itself, the nail bed and the skin tissue surrounding the nail. The nail is made from a protein called keratin. It grows out from the nail bed, which contains tons of tiny blood vessels and produces new cells. As these cells form, they push outward, causing the nail to lengthen.

Your nails are constantly growing, so they can reflect what’s happening inside your body over time. Healthy nails require good blood flow, balanced nutrition and overall good health. If someone has a vitamin deficiency, an underlying medical condition or poor circulation, their nails may show telltale signs such as changes in color or thickness.

Common Nail Changes and What They Can Mean

Some nail changes are a normal part of aging. However, certain signs can indicate underlying health conditions that require medical attention.

Color Changes

A healthy nail has a pink body with a white distal (the part extending past the nail bed). However, nails may take on a different hue if you have a health issue. For example, if you notice your nails are yellowing, you may have a fungal infection or a respiratory issue. A bluish tint can also point to lung or breathing problems, as well as poor circulation.

It’s a myth that white spots in nails suggest a calcium deficiency. Oftentimes, these spots result from a trauma, such as dropping something on your hand. However, if the entire nail takes on a pale or white color, you may want to talk to your doctor to rule out anemia or liver problems.

Texture and Thickness Changes

The thickness of your nails is partly genetic. Maybe you’ve always had thin nails that broke or tore easily, or perhaps they've always grown long and strong. Either way, if you notice a change in thickness or strength, it might be time to have a discussion with your doctor.

Thickening nails often result from a fungal infection, which is typically easy to address with over-the-counter treatments. However, they can also result from circulation problems. If your nails are suddenly breaking or splitting easily, you may need to increase how much protein, iron, zinc or omega-3 fats you eat. This issue can also suggest thyroid concerns. Additionally, autoimmune conditions such as arthritis and psoriasis can cause pitting or ridging in the nail.

Shape Changes

If your nails suddenly take on a different shape than what you’ve always been accustomed to, this might also be a reason to speak with your doctor. For example, doctors often link clubbed nails with enlarged, rounded tips to heart or lung disease. If your nails take on a concave shape, you may want to get your iron levels checked.

When Nail Changes Are a Normal Part of Aging

Because our cell turnover rate slows as we age and healthy nails rely on cell turnover, some nail changes are inevitable as we get older. Your nails probably grow at a slower pace than when you were younger, and they might have a more uneven texture. Your nails might also develop slight ridges and mild thickening. All these changes are normal and not a cause for concern.

However, any changes you notice are worth discussing with your doctor. At the very least, ruling these changes out as a normal part of aging can provide peace of mind.

How to Keep Your Nails Healthy as You Age

The good news is, there are plenty of things you can do to keep your nails healthy, even as they start to show their own signs of aging. Daily nail care, which includes regular moisturizing, trimming and filing your nails as necessary, encourages healthy growth. You can also help your nails stay healthy by avoiding exposing them to harsh chemicals.

Good nutrition and hydration continue to play important roles in general health. Make sure your diet includes a variety of protein sources and fresh produce, and drink water throughout the day. Regular visits with a dermatologist or podiatrist can also help support good nail health.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you notice a sudden change in your nail shape, color or texture, you may want to schedule a visit with your doctor to rule out potential health conditions or nutrient deficiencies. You should also contact your health care provider if you experience pain, swelling or signs of infection around your nail bed.

Your nails provide important insight into your general health, and proactively addressing changes may help you prevent conditions from progressing. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

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