Your nails may be telling you you're sick: How can you tell?

Nails are essential for protecting and supporting the fingers , as well as improving their tactile and motor functions. However, their function is not limited to this; experts point out that they can also offer clear clues about potential diseases that a person may be suffering from without realizing it. Here are the keys.

Changes in the color, texture, or appearance of spots on your nails can be a warning sign of various conditions. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should pay attention and consult your doctor. The BBC exhibits some of these paintings:

1. White nails:

In the case of nails with white pigmentation, a lighter shade may be associated with fungal infections, psoriasis, pneumonia, and even heart failure. Additionally, a lack of certain nutrients, malnutrition, and a low-protein diet can also cause this change. It's important to note that anemia, caused by iron deficiency, can cause nails to become pale and spoon-shaped. To determine the exact cause, medical testing and follow-up with a specialist are recommended.

2. Yellow nails: ​Nail color can be determined by genetics or aging.

Likewise, the presence of fungi or mycoses can cause changes in pigmentation. In more serious cases, color changes may be associated with diseases such as psoriasis, HIV, or kidney problems. Smokers also change the color of their nails to this shade.

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3. Nails with white spots: Small white spots on the nails, known as "pitting," usually appear isolated and spaced apart. These are associated with conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin and hair diseases.

4. Blue nails:

Blue nails, although uncommon, can be caused by the use of certain medications, such as acne treatments and antimalarials used against malaria.

5. Nails with recurrent mycosis:

These are fungal infections that can recur if treatment isn't followed properly. They are most common in toenails and require prolonged treatment of up to six months.

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Other types of nails that require observation

- Lines on nails Lines on nails, also known as Beau's lines, are horizontal grooves that can appear after episodes of high fever, chemotherapy treatments, or trauma to the nail matrix. They disappear over time.

- Brittle nails

On the other hand, brittle nails are often caused by frequent contact with chemicals that dry out both the nails and the skin on the fingers. To prevent this, it's advisable to keep your hands well moisturized by applying specific creams that protect and nourish this area.

- Red nails

A reddish hue, especially in a crescent shape, may indicate the presence of rheumatic diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

- Nails that are difficult to heal

According to the BBC, when there are healing problems related to this part of the body, it can be an indication of diabetes. This is due to the circulatory process.