Many of us pay attention to our nails only when they chip, break, or lose their shine. However, doctors say the colour, shape, and texture of our nails can sometimes reveal much more than cosmetic concerns. From nutritional deficiencies to chronic illnesses, subtle nail changes may offer early clues about what is happening inside the body, making them worth noticing rather than ignoring.
Doctors are seeing more patients walk in with nail-related concerns than they did a few years ago. Explaining why this trend is becoming more common, Dr MA Muqsith Quadri, senior consultant physician - general medicine at Care Hospitals, Nampally, says, “We’re seeing an increase in patients with nail issues compared to the past. Fungal infections are still frequent, but we’re also observing that more cases are related to shifts in lifestyle, regular use of cosmetic nail items, frequent handwashing, diabetes, inadequate nutrition, and stress.”
Many nail changes are dismissed as harmless, but some deserve medical attention. Highlighting the signs people should not overlook, Dr Swapna Kunduru, consultant dermatologist at Apollo Hospitals, Financial District, shares, “Nails often provide early clues about internal health. Persistent discoloration, thickening, brittle nails, deep ridges, spoon-shaped nails, clubbing, or separation from the nail bed should not be ignored. While minor changes may be harmless, long-lasting or progressive abnormalities can indicate nutritional deficiencies, infections, or systemic diseases requiring medical evaluation.”
Yellow or thick nails are often assumed to be a cosmetic issue, but there can be more to the story. Explaining how to recognise when it may be something serious, Dr Muqsith explains, “Nails that are yellow, thick, or brittle are frequently a sign of a fungal infection, particularly if they become crumbly or detach from the nail bed. That said, these same changes can also be linked to other health issues like psoriasis, diabetes, thyroid problems, or insufficient circulation. To tell the difference, look for specific symptoms like pitting, pain, or skin swelling.”
Certain nail patterns can even point towards underlying health conditions or nutritional deficiencies. Explaining these links, Dr Swapna narrates, “Spoon-shaped nails may indicate iron-deficiency anaemia, while brittle nails can occur with thyroid disorders. Yellow nails may be linked to diabetes or fungal infections. Clubbing may suggest heart or lung disease, whereas pale or white nails can reflect liver or kidney disorders. Nails often mirror overall health.”
Everyday habits also play a major role in keeping nails healthy. Speaking about the impact of common routines, Dr Muqsith notes, “Your daily routines can greatly affect the health of your nails. Biting your nails can harm both the nail and the skin around it, making you more prone to infections. Using nail polish, gel nails, or strong removers can often weaken and dry out your nails over time. Keeping hands in water for prolonged periods can make nails soft and brittle, making them more prone to breakage and fungal infections.”
While home remedies may help with minor problems, persistent nail changes should never be ignored. Advising when to seek professional help, Dr Swapna expresses, “Maintain nail hygiene, keep nails trimmed, moisturise regularly, eat a balanced diet rich in protein and iron, and avoid excessive chemical exposure. Consult a dermatologist if nail changes persist beyond a few weeks, worsen, become painful, bleed, or are associated with skin rashes or other health symptoms.”
A small change in your nails may not always signal a serious illness, but paying attention to unusual or persistent changes can make a significant difference. Sometimes, your nails could be the first visible clue that your body needs care.